Beginning in late February, Prince George’s County and the Clean Water Partnership will construct a submerged gravel wetland in University Park along Wells Parkway adjacent to the new playground. The project will replace a non-functioning storm water facility at that location. Submerged gravel wetlands are used to improve water quality by filtering sediments through a system of gravel and native plants. The project will take 4-5 months to complete, improving water quality in Wells Run and the Anacostia River by treating storm water runoff from a 2.5-acre area before it enters the stream.
The submerged gravel wetland will include the planting of 10 varieties of native plants, totaling more than 800 plants as part of the filtering system. Fifteen trees will be removed during construction, each to be replaced with a new shade tree upon completion. The playground itself will receive a third length of fence on the west side, facing the submerged gravel wetland. The project is operating with a permit approved by the Town of University Park. Construction vehicles servicing the project will be limited to a specific route to and from Adelphi Road. The Clean Water Partnership will pay all costs for construction and carry out functional maintenance of the submerged gravel wetland in perpetuity.
For more information, please review the attached construction flyer and plans.