Greenville County Soil and Water Conservation District: Keep storm drains clean
Simpsonville, S.C. — The City of Simpsonville is partnering with the Greenville County Soil and Water Conservation District’s Stormwater Program to bring awareness to the hazards of clogged storm drains in residential neighborhoods.
It’s a simple yet effective program: adhere on or near storm drains special markers that read “ONLY RAIN DOWN THE DRAIN * DRAINS TO RIVER” with a Spanish translation and the phone number to report dumping down the drain: 864-467-4610. Simpsonville Community Relations Specialist Justin Campbell said the City is proud to play a part in the reboot of the District’s program.
“No one needs reminding of stormwater issues in Simpsonville and throughout Greenville County, but we all need reminding of the damaging effects of clogged storm drains, something that is almost totally avoidable,” Campbell said. “These bright blue and green markers on or near storm drains throughout Simpsonville neighborhoods create accountability in keeping storm drains clean and deterring dumping.”
Campbell and Council members Lou Hutchings of Ward 6 and Shannon Williams of Ward 3 visited the Westwood neighborhood on Friday on preparation for implementation of the program. They took note of storm drains in need of attention and planted a sign in Ms. Williams’s yard to promote the program.
“Westwood residents have seen some of the worst stormwater flooding incidents in the past few years, so that neighborhood area is the most logical place to start,” Campbell said. “Once the rain stops and we place dozens of these markers near and around Alder Park, we’ll move on to other neighborhoods in other wards. Raising awareness about clean storm drains for 8,300 households will make a difference.”
Mr. Hutchings, Ms. Williams, Public Works crews and Campbell plan to fan out in Westwood in late July to apply the markers.
