RAINWATER HARVESTING SYSTEM

To reduce potable water usage and combined sewer overflows, eDesign Dynamics worked with the Fordham Bedford Housing Corporation in the Bronx to design a rainwater harvesting and use system for an affordable housing complex.

The rainwater harvesting design collects water from the roof, storing it in a retention tank located in the basement of the building. Treatment of the harvested water is accomplished using physical filtration and a disinfection unit. After which it is used for flushing toilets and landscape irrigation.

The Fordham Bedford Housing Corporation oversees management of more than 95 apartment buildings with over 2,600 affordable units in the Bronx. The new housing project with the rainwater harvesting system has multiple units set aside for households earning no more than 50% of the area median income. It has been calculated that the project will save 25% on city water charges.