Seattle's High Point Neighborhood


Any number of solutions to cleaning storm water run-off are in evidence at Seattle's High Point Neighborhood. These "natural drainage system" solutions make water cleaner and more temperate as it flows down into Longfellow creek. This is no accident...it's by design.


The High Point Neighborhood has been growing for a number of years as a shining example of green site development. Natural water purification elements include, pourous pavement, swales, drainage pond and a number of preserved native trees.


Pourous pavement allows rainwater to seep through to the soil below through a rice cake like, special mix of cement. This also allows more air to get into the soil helping root structures.


Swales are carefully landscaped drainage features. With hearty plant coverage and built in slopes, the swales capture and clean storm water run-off as it makes its way to the drainage pond.


The drainage pond is the final leg of the elaborate rain water drainage system. Wherever possible, rain water is put through a series of soil and plant cleansing processess so that by the time it reaches the creek it is cleaner than ever before and at a consistent beneficial temperature.


The 2006 Seattle Green Living Expo At High Point

(Articles Library)