(October 5, 2011) – Officials from several federal and state environmental agencies today were given a progress report and walking tour of the Maryland State Highway Administration's (SHA) most ambitious stream restoration project being undertaken as part of the $2.55 billion Intercounty Connector (ICC) project.  The project will ultimately restore nearly 3.66 miles of the Northwest Branch in Montgomery County.  The ICC Project is partnering with the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC) on the effort which is expected to be complete next year.

 

ICC Environmental Manager Rob Shreeve conducted the project briefing and guided officials on a walking tour of the site earlier today.  “This is a perfect example of why the ICC’s Environmental Stewardship Program was created – to not just mitigate for impacts from construction but to maximize environmental improvements,” said Environmental Manager Shreeve. “SHA is pleased to join the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission to improve Northwest Branch and return the stream to its original habitat.”

 

The restoration encompasses approximately 18,000 linear feet of the stream located in the Northwest Branch Stream Valley Park. It includes innovative features and structures designed to improve the Northwest Branch’s ecosystem by reducing stream bank erosion and reconnecting the stream channel to its original floodplain, which was ruined from years of uncontrolled water runoff from development.

 

Crews are using large tree trunks from the ICC construction to stabilize stream banks instead of rock, which is usually used in this process. Recycling the trees supports the biological health of the stream system and restores the stream’s natural character. This project will improve the water quality and aquatic habitat within the Northwest Branch and is the largest stream restoration in SHA history.

The ICC includes $370 million for environmental projects, representing 15 percent of the budget.

 

“The ICC is proof positive that SHA is committed to protecting and improving the environment with every project it builds,” said ICC Project Director Melinda Peters, who also participated in today’s briefing and tour.

 

For more information on the Intercounty Connector, please call toll-free at 866-462-0020, or visit www.iccproject.com.​
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