Whistling Valley Neighborhood

Our team worked with the private developer, architect, City of Lake Elmo, Washington County, Valley Branch Watershed District, a wetland specialist and several contractors to implement this network of public streets, wetland amenities, utilities and stormwater Best Management Practices (BMPs) across this beautiful 100-acre residential development. We provided the site analysis, stormwater modeling, design/engineering, regulatory assistance, construction inspections and we completed project close-out services in 2012. The multi-faceted system of BMPs continues to provide improved water quality and increased stormwater infiltration, in addition to usable green space for the residents to enjoy.

100-acre residential development in Lake Elmo, MN
Our team designed multi-functional stormwater management BMPs using low impact development principles
Wetland cells and native landscaping provide recreational, environmental and community benefits.

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Project Overview

Client: Private Residential Developer
Location: Lake Elmo, MN
Services: Site Planning & Design, Hydrology & Stormwater Modeling, Civil Engineering, Wetland Mitigation, Permitting & Regulatory Assistance, Construction Administration

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Challenges

Several existing wetlands and wooded areas would not allow for a conventional neighborhood development.
Site’s location along a County road and its proximity to an impaired water body called for stringent stormwater management guidelines, permitting and approvals.

Solution and Results

We provided the site analysis, stormwater modeling, design/engineering, regulatory assistance, construction administration and close-out services to effectively complete this 3-phase residential housing project. The various features that were efficiently integrated for this project include several wetlands, wooded areas, trails, streets, utilities, landscaping and various stormwater BMPs. All of these site features continue to provide recreational, environmental and community benefits.

Embraced natural wetlands and created supplementary features along the shared walking/biking trails.
Created wetland cells within the landscape for wastewater treatment.
Utilized cul-de-sac areas for stormwater storage, infiltration and passive irrigation.