The role of street cleaning in stormwater management

Abstract

The authors have been involved in numerous street cleaning research projects for over 30 years. This paper will give us a unique opportunity to highlight the historical use of street cleaning as a method for reducing stormwater pollutants, and will examine newly emerging street cleaning technologies. There have been many misconceptions concerning this potential stormwater management control. This paper will examine the limitations of street cleaning, and describe how it can be more effective. Street cleaning plays an important role in most public works departments as an aesthetic and safety control measure. Street cleaning is also important to reduce massive dirt and debris buildups present in the spring in the northern regions. Leaf cleanup by street cleaning is also necessary in most areas in the fall.