City of Alexandria Receives National Award for Excellence in Stormwater Management and Green Infrastructure Practices 

The City is proud to earn national recognition as a leader in stormwater management and its Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) program by winning the 2024 Phase II MS4 Overall Award from the National Municipal Stormwater and Green Infrastructure Program.  

The National MS4 Award Program was established in 2015 through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to recognize the nationwide efforts for innovative ways to meet and exceed regulatory requirements set to reduce stormwater pollution. Presented by the Water Environment Federation (WEF), staff report that the City’s Stormwater Management Program “excelled in effectively managing stormwater and green infrastructure initiatives, surpassing regulatory requirements, and demonstrating a commitment to innovative solutions.” 

The City’s Phase II MS4 permit is issued by Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) under the federal Clean Water Act and regulates the discharge of stormwater to reduce pollution entering streams and waterbodies. There are nearly 6,500 Phase II MS4 permit holders nationwide.  

Key highlights for the program include the 275-tree planting initiative in recognition for the City’s 275th Anniversary, and expanding the number of eligible practices included in the Stormwater Utility Fee Credit Program. The City also worked to advance the goals of the Chesapeake Bay program through several restoration projects focused on enhancing public and private spaces while reducing sediment and nutrients entering the Bay. 

Since the Award’s inception in 2015, the City has consistently achieved recognition in Program Management and Innovation. This was the second time the City has been recognized as the Phase II MS4 Overall Winner.  

Visit the City’s MS4 website to learn more about the program and its past awards.