When my kids were small I lived on Market Street in Annapolis, just blocks away from work.  I have a strong memory of walking home in a driving spring rain, holding my shoes in my hand and wading through pools of water, watching it cascade from downspouts across lawns down stone steps onto the sidewalk and into the street . . . avalanches of water accumulating around thirsty sewers, pouring downhill along the paved street and into Spa Creek.  Several years ago, with the Cheasapeake Bay recovery a major issue, I began to ask what the City could do to retain the rain.  "Very difficult . . . impossible . . ."  I was told.

Now, the City is required by NPDES Regulations to reduce its impact on the Creeks that form its borders. A new bank under construction on West Street will grow a Living Roof, and the Mayor has brought grants into City coffers to construct its first Raingardens. AA County Public Works Director has championed Living Roofs, installing 5 on public buildings in various County jurisdictions. Visit the Raingardens we have inspired in the County parking lot, Heritage Plaza, Riva Road - and at the main entrance to Westfield Shoppingtown off Jennifer Road.