Camden SMART

The objective of the Camden SMART (Stormwater Management and Resource Training) Initiative is to develop a comprehensive network of green infrastructure programs and projects for the City of Camden. The Initiative is a collaboration between the City of Camden, Camden County Municipal Utilities Authority, Cooper’s Ferry Partnership,Rutgers Cooperative Extension Water Resources Program, New Jersey Tree Foundation, NJ Department of Environmental Protection, our public-private partners, community organizations, and most importantly, Camden residents to restore and revitalize our neighborhoods. The Initiative includes neighborhood green and grey infrastructure projects, stormwater management policy development, and green infrastructure training programs.

Visit CamdenSMART

Above: Flooding in Camden after several inches of rain

Concern

Many parts of Camden are serviced by a Combined Sewer System (CSO) where stormwater and sewage water are mixed together. As a result, when system capacity is exceeded, sewage water backs up into the streets of Camden and into residents' homes. Even after normal rain events, many sections of Camden flood, making roads inaccessible and recreational spaces unusable. Therefore, it is imperative that we work towards a more sustainable Camden in order to prevent these occurrences and improve public health for city residents. The Camden SMART team aims to implement neighborhood green and grey infrastructure projects that will not only alleviate flooding, but also address a range of challenges that can be approached through effective stormwater management.

Focus Areas & Activities

Sewage Backups & Overflows
Sewer Infrastructure
Sewer Service Contract/Management
Stormwater Policy/Permitting
Water Infrastructure
Water Quality

Minimize flooding and volume of CSOs to the rivers
Improve drinking and wastewater infrastructure to minimize water loss, environmental impact, and allow for economic development and neighborhood revitalization
Develop a comprehensive network of green infrastructure programs and projects

Accomplishments

Liney Ditch Park Shelterbelt Tree Planting

Click here to view complied albums of SMART's Green Infrastructure Sites

Click here to view all of SMART's green infrastructure projects.
Once directed to Rutgers Water Resources Program's webpage click the first link 'GIS web map of Camden Green Infrastructure Projects' to view the interactive map.

Future Projects

17 New Green Infrastructure Projects

8 New Grey Infrastructure Projects

North Camden Waterfront Park

Von Nieda Park Project Phase II

Phoenix Park Project Phase II

Over 61 Million Gallons and Counting!
Within the first three years, the Camden SMART Initiative resulted in the construction of over 49 demonstration projects throughout the City of Camden, including more than 20 rain gardens, and several rain barrels designed to capture, treat,and infiltrate over 61 million gallons of stormwater each year.