News Flash

(Roanoke County, VA – February 6, 2024) Roanoke County’s Department of Development Services has awarded Appalachian Power its second prestigious Stormwater Clean Award for exceptional environmental efforts.  

This year’s honor recognized Appalachian Power for its focus and efforts constructing the company’s Regional Distribution Center located at 1810 Loch Haven Drive in Salem. The electric utility received its first Stormwater Clean Award in 2021 for its efforts during construction of the Glenmary Substation project, located at 5495 Corporate Circle, also in Salem, VA.

Appalachian Power has become adept at enlisting the right team of professionals to minimize erosion, contain sediment on the project, and manage compliance efforts with Virginia’s stormwater regulations. County inspector Michelle Donohoe noted the stellar work efforts of the project team, including Avis Construction, Bowman Excavating, and Parker Design Group. This project benefited from early application of construction road stabilization throughout the work area, prompt stabilization of bare soils, and excellent management of sediment trapping devices. Such efforts and collaboration create a win-win situation where outstanding work is rewarded and local waterways are protected from sediment pollution, which is the end goal. “We are honored to be recognized by Roanoke County,” said Larry Jackson, Appalachian Power government affairs director. “We strive to comply with all applicable environmental laws and regulations. Being a good steward of our Earth’s natural resources is core to who we are and all we do.”   

Roanoke County inspectors submit candidate projects to a selection committee that evaluates them for recognition. Selected projects are recognized with a Stormwater Clean Award banner, which remains in place on the project site throughout construction. Winning projects are highlighted on the County’s website https://www.roanokecountyva.gov/1780/Stormwater-Contractor-Appreciation and in the Department’s annual newsletter, It’s Just Dirt, which is available here: https://www.roanokecountyva.gov/1648/Stormwater-Public-Education-Documents.