Permeable Paving

Permeable paving refers to paving materials – typically concrete, stone or plastic – that promote absorption of rain and snowmelt. The discussion that follows focuses primarily on one form of permeable pavement – paving blocks and grids, as they are the most common and available type of permeable paving. These modular systems contain openings that are filled with sand and/or soil. Some can support grass or other suitable vegetation, providing a green appearance. A portion of rainfall is trapped in the block's depressions and infiltrates into the underlying soil.

Permeable paving is effective in reducing the quantity of surface runoff, particularly for small to moderate-sized storms. It also reduces the runoff pollutants associated with these events. Permeable paving in Chicago will be most effective in areas closer to Lake Michigan that are underlain with sandy, permeable soils. Effectiveness can be improved by designs that:

  • maximize the openings in the paving material and
  • provide an effective permeable sub-layer (e.g., at least 12 inches)

Permeable paving may have aesthetic and marketing advantages over conventional paving, depending on the materials selected. Vegetated pavers, in particular, could substantially improve the aesthetic appeal of paved areas. Vegetated pavers also can be effective in reducing the “urban heat island” effect

An alternative form of permeable paving is porous pavement that relies on larger particles in the aggregate to rapidly infiltrate precipitation into an underlying stone "reservoir." While not discussed at length in this guide, porous pavement may be a suitable option for certain low-impact applications.

Porous pavement may be prone to clogging, be adversely affected by the freeze/thaw cycle and can have higher maintenance requirements than permeable paving. However, some recent reports - mostly from warmer climates - conclude that porous pavement may be a reliable, cost-effective alternative. One key consideration when using porous pavement is to ensure that the aggregate is sufficiently durable.

Applicability
Permeable paving is particularly appropriate for the following applications: overflow and special event parking, driveways, utility and access roads, emergency access lanes, fire lanes and alleys.

Maintenance Considerations
Vegetated paving blocks may require occasional mowing. Snow plowing may require special care due to the slightly uneven surface of the pavement.

 Photo of Gad's Hill Center at 1919 W. Cullerton permeable paved surface parking lot.
Photograph of the permeable paving in the demonstration garden area at the Chicago Center for Green Technology.

Cost Considerations
Installation costs for permeable paving can be as much as two to three times greater than conventional concrete or asphalt. However, there are indications that permeable paving requires less frequent replacement. Also, because it substantially reduces runoff quantities, permeable paving can substantially reduce related stormwater engineering and infrastructure (e.g., curbs, gutters and storm sewer) costs. These savings can at least partially offset the higher installation costs.

Local Example
Gad’s Hill Center at 1919 W. Cullerton uses permeable paving for its parking lot (left).The Chicago Department of Transportation used paving blocks in a demonstration project in the 48th Ward. The Chicago Center for Green Technology has permeable paving in the demonstration garden area.

 

 

 

 

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