Project Background

This project was identified in the Difficult Run Watershed Management Plan for stream restoration and stabilization activities and was nominated by the Reston Association. It was placed in the county's Fiscal Year 2020 work plan due to severe erosion and exposed sanitary sewer lines.

Project Description

The project will restore about 1,200 linear feet of natural stream channel. The stream channel exhibits severely eroded and over-widened banks, and there is the potential for further bed and bank instability. Two sanitary sewer lines have been exposed by the erosion. This project is part of larger efforts to restore many of Fairfax County’s degraded streams while improving overall water quality and the condition of the Chesapeake Bay.

The primary goals of the restoration are:

• Stabilize the channel and prevent future erosion and degradation along the stream.
• Improve water quality through the removal of nutrients (nitrogen and phosphorous) and sediment.
• Create a healthy ecosystem by restoring the channel and installing native trees and herbaceous plants.
• Protect the sanitary sewer infrastructure.

Project Location

The project is located on Reston Association Property between Lamplighter Way and Woodbrook Lane and extends downstream to the Piney Run stream.

Project Phase

The 65% design plans were submitted and reviewed. Following a team design review meeting, the design will progress to 95% design and begin necessary permitting.

Timeline

Design is scheduled to be completed in Summer 2024.  Construction activity is expected to begin in Winter 2024.

What to Expect

The County obtained the required land rights to move ahead with the design of the project. The 65% design plans were circulated to the community and design team for review and comment. The 65% design plans were presented at the March 19, 2024 Reston Design Review Board and received Board approval. A post-submission design review meeting will be scheduled and the consultant will proceed to 95% design.

Project Cost and Funding Source

Design of the Piney Run Tributary at Lamplighter Way stream restoration project is funded for $464,000. Construction funding is dependent upon future budget availability and allocations. Stormwater projects are funded through the county Stormwater Service District.

Presentations to the Community

Piney Run Tributary at Lamplighter Way - July 28, 2022

Contact

For more information email Project Manager Aaron George, Stormwater Planning Division, Department of Public Works and Environmental Services, or call 703-324-5802, TTY 711.