Building an Equitable Stormwater Program for an Environmental Justice Community: Stormwater Authority of the City of Chester (SAC), PA

Managing stormwater can be challenging in communities facing economic hardships. However, with determined leadership, federal and state support, and efficient program management, communities can realize success in their program. Highlights of the journey of one such Stormwater Authority located in the City of Chester, PA are presented in this session. The Stormwater Authority of the City of Chester (SAC) was formed in 2016 to address stormwater issues in the city of Chester. Since 2016, the newly formed SAC has implemented Stormwater Utility Rate Study, Infrastructure Mapping and Condition Assessment, Catch Basin Repair and Retrofit Program, City-wide Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI) Feasibility Study, Flood Assessments, MS4 Stormwater Management Program Development, and Regional Stormwater Facility Design. The Stormwater Program has enabled SAC to identify and prioritize projects to address localized flooding, improve rainfall runoff quality, improve aesthetics, and kindle environmental curiosity among the residents of the City.