CHANDLER, Ariz. – On Feb. 22, Chandler City Council made a significant move by awarding a professional services agreement to J2 Engineering & Environmental Design for the Turf to Xeriscape Program Design Services, totaling $440,889. The program aims to convert non-functional grass in 14 city-maintained retention areas to xeriscape, a low water use landscape.
The conversion process involves various steps such as grass removal, edge preparation, weed treatment, installation of granite, drip irrigation, and desert-adapted shrubs and trees. According to the city officials, this initiative will lead to substantial savings in both water consumption and maintenance costs.
"This program is one step towards the goal of reducing water consumption where possible," stated the city council. They added, "When this project is completed, there will be significant savings in money and water."
Estimates suggest that the Turf to Xeriscape Program will conserve over 20 million gallons of water annually, translating to more than $50,000 in water usage savings each year, along with reduced landscape maintenance costs.
In addition to the environmental and financial benefits, the program will involve public outreach to nearby residential and business areas before any conversion takes place. It is important to note that only public drainage areas will be impacted, and developed city parks are excluded from this initiative.
The project scope includes preliminary site design concepts, field surveys, utility coordination, permitting assistance, cost estimates, and construction document preparation. This comprehensive approach underscores the city's commitment to sustainable practices and efficient resource management.
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