It’s actually a pretty simple concept. Bumpouts are a smart, inexpensive way (as opposed to installing bigger pipes underground) to deal with Philadelphia’s stormwater runoff issues.

Instead of water not being able to penetrate through Philly’s streets, and ending up in a sewer drain (which can get obstructed easily with leaves/debris), these bumpouts are designed to easily let water flow through an extension of the sidewalk into a grass, tree, and plant filled catchment. Sounds a little too simple, right?

This is just one part of PWD’s plan to green Philly’s stormwater system and make our city a cleaner, healthier place to live.