The Lakewood Township Stormwater Basin Retrofit Project (LTSBRP) has reached its final milestone with the installation of seven educational signs across retrofitted stormwater basins—bringing a multi-phase environmental effort to a meaningful and highly visible close.
This project began with a clear goal: to improve the function and ecological value of existing stormwater basins throughout Lakewood Township. Through thoughtful planning and design, 10 basins were retrofitted to enhance stormwater management, reduce pollutant loads, and incorporate native vegetation. These improvements transformed traditional basins into more effective, environmentally beneficial systems that support both water quality and local biodiversity.
As the project progressed, native plantings were established within the basins, helping to stabilize soils, filter runoff, and create habitat. These living systems now play a critical role in the long-term success of the retrofits, demonstrating how green infrastructure can be integrated into everyday landscapes.
To complement these physical improvements, the final phase of the project focused on public education. Seven interpretive signs were designed to tell the story of each basin—featuring before-and-after photos, “Did You Know?” facts, and highlights of native plant species now thriving in these spaces. Each sign also explains the important role stormwater basins play in protecting water quality, helping to connect residents with infrastructure they may see every day but rarely think about.
Three larger 36” x 24” signs—mounted on dual posts—were installed at the America Ave, FirstEnergy (North), and Sunset Road basins. Four additional 24” x 18” signs—mounted on single posts—were installed at the FirstEnergy (South), Shemen Street, Carol Street, and Rachel Court basins.
While the creation of the signs marked the project’s culminating educational effort, seeing them installed in the field truly completed the vision. That final step was made possible through the outstanding support of the Lakewood Township Department of Public Works. Phil Roux, Director of LTDPW, coordinated a dedicated crew from both the Department of Public Works and Parks & Recreation—Ruben Vargas, Jose Vega, Brett Vaux, Julian Alequin, and Jesse Torres—who carried out the installation with professionalism, efficiency, and attention to detail.
From the outset, the team arrived fully prepared with posts, mounting hardware, a soil drill, measuring tape, cement, water, and leveling tools. Working together seamlessly, they ensured each sign was installed securely and precisely. Their coordination and expertise made what was a labor-intensive process look effortless.
The installation was not only a success—it was a clear example of partnership in action. Collaboration among the Camden County Soil Conservation District, Ocean County Soil Conservation District, South Jersey Resource Conservation & Development Council, Healthy Landscapes Inc., and the Lakewood Township Department of Public Works made this project possible from start to finish.
With the signs now in place, residents can visit these basins and gain a deeper appreciation for how they function, why they matter, and how thoughtful design and stewardship can transform everyday infrastructure into educational resources. The Lakewood Township Stormwater Basin Retrofit Project stands as a model for how infrastructure improvements, ecological restoration, and public education can come together to create lasting environmental and community benefits.
The Lakewood Township Stormwater Basin Retrofit Project was made possible through a Federal 319(h) Water Quality Restoration grant awarded by the NJ Department of Environmental Protection to the South Jersey Resource Conservation and Development Council (SJRC&D). This entire project is chronicled on the Project’s webpage available on the OCSCD website, ensuring that the full story—from initial concept to final installation—is documented and shared with the community.