Atlanta Department of Watershed Management (DWM) is progressing with an initiative to enhance sewer capacity and mitigate flooding in the Peoplestown neighborhood.
Aimed at addressing combined sewer overflows and localized flooding in southeast Atlanta, the Custer Avenue Multi-Benefit Capacity Relief Project is a significant milestone in the city’s decade-long effort.
This project aligns with an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-issued consent decree, and the DWM has enlisted a multidisciplinary team for the design and construction phase, set to commence in early 2024. The envisioned solutions will help control surface water, detain stormwater flows to the combined sewer system, and provide temporary underground storage to protect public health and property.
Led by a joint venture (JV) of Ruby-Collins, Inc. and BenchMark Management, with support from engineer of record, Brown and Caldwell, the project involves the creation of an underground “capture and release” structure. This structure will temporarily store combined sewer overflows during wet weather events, gradually releasing them back for treatment when capacity allows.
The development includes a large capacity storage vault, storm drain infrastructure, and additional greenspace. This greenspace, located in the low-lying Peoplestown neighborhood, will collect and store 7 million L (2 million gal) of surface water runoff during wet weather, transforming into a park amenity during dry periods.
Community engagement is a central aspect, with outreach efforts garnering support for the project. DWM Commissioner Mikita K. Browning emphasized that the initiative aligns with the mission to provide sustainable stormwater management and mitigate flooding’s adverse impacts.
