TOLEDO, Ohio - April 29 - American Rivers today applauded the Toledo City Council for taking a major step toward protecting clean water. The Council voted last night to allow the use of 21st century green infrastructure solutions in projects located within the City. The City of Toledo will now allow pervious pavement as an eligible alternative for required off-street parking, including parking lots, and natural water filtration with native plants, including rain gardens, as an alternative to current landscape requirements in parking lot islands.

Katie Swartz, conservation associate from American Rivers, made the following statement:

"Toledo City Council made a big step in the right direction yesterday. Our nation is at a transformational moment when it comes to our rivers and clean water. Other cities should follow Toledo's lead and embrace a 21st century approach to water that integrates green solutions."

"Green infrastructure projects around our community will manage stormwater wisely and help keep our water supply clean, protecting public health and the recreational areas we all enjoy for boating, swimming, and fishing."

"Last year American Rivers held a Green Infrastructure Tour and City Councilman Joe McNamara was able to join us. I am pleased to see that Toledo is working towards the cost-effective, proven, and reliable green solutions that were demonstrated on the tour."

Learn more about green infrastructure:
http://www.americanrivers.org/our-work/global-warming-and-rivers/infrastructure