University of Louisville Brook Street Infiltration Basin

On August 4, 2009, a massive, unprecedented flood hit the University of Louisville, with 7.2 inches of rain falling in just 78 minutes. The storm caused $21 million in damage to 92 campus buildings. Since then, the university has taken a number of steps to mitigate the impact of such storms.

Part of the solution was the construction of a sub-surface infiltration basin to accept stormwater runoff and replenish the local aquifer. Engineers at Qk4 had a number of design challenges to overcome.  First was the limited footprint, as the system was to be installed in the infield of the track and field area. Second was the ability to expand the system. The proposed system would handle a portion of the flooding and would be expanded to increase capacity when funding becomes available. Third was timing. The project had to be completed during the summer between the end of the NCAA Track and Field season and the start of the Fall Semester due to intramural events in the location of the system. Lastly was the presence of contaminated soils in the area, which could corrode a traditional metal system.

Engineers chose an infiltration system made from 670’ of 120” diameter, perforated DuroMaxx steal reinforced polyethylene (SRPE), providing 393,640 gallons of storage. The 10’ diameter DuroMaxx system was chosen because of its ability to store a large volume of water in a small footprint, and the system can be expanded in the future.  The engineers also wanted to use DuroMaxx because of its ability to withstand the corrosion of the contaminated soil. A Contech VortCenrty was also included to provide pretreatment and as single point for maintenance and cleanout. 

Timing was also a factor, as DuroMaxx is lightweight and easy to install, the entire system was installed in just one and half weeks. MAC Construction was very pleased how quickly and easily the system was installed. They were also very pleased with the presence of a Contech Field Consultant, who was on-site to provide support throughout the installation.