Downtown Berkeley Getting the Permeable Pavement Treatment

The new permeable interlocking concrete pavement will absorb water, rather than redirecting it to a storm drain the way traditional asphalt does. This has a number of advantages, including better heat dispersal and cleaner runoff water, according to the city Public Works Commission.

"The new roadway will require less maintenance than a traditional asphalt roadway and have a moderate traffic calming effect," reads a sign at the construction site. "Many will consider it more aesthetically pleasing as well."

by Charles Siler

Full Story: http://www.berkeleyside.com/2014/08/08/berkeley-installs-first-permeable-pavers-downtown/