From Foundation to Flow: Creating a Riverfront Oasis in Anne Arundel County

Along the stunning shores of Severna Park, MD, Stormwater Facilities partnered with Birdland Builders to revitalize a residential property, tackling complex demolition, utility connections, and landscaping with a commitment to quality and environmental waterfront care.

Demolition & Site Preparation: Setting the Stage

The project began with detailed site demolition and clearing to make way for new construction. After securing permits and capping existing water and sewer connections, the Stormwater team demolished the generations of existing hardscapes and failing retaining walls. The shed, house and foundation would come later. Four large trees were professionally felled to clear the 7,110-square-foot site. The work also involved clearing steep slopes, and carefully stabilizing the terrain in readiness for the new build.

Building along the waterfront called for a robust retaining wall to support the property’s structure and maintain stability. Stormwater Facilities managed excavation, backfill, and drainage, installing 650 feet of drainage pipes and 6-inch PVC drains along the wall to control site runoff. Using 126 tons of stone fill and 1,400 Allan blocks, the team constructed a durable engineered retaining wall capped with color matched concrete stairs, blending strength with visual appeal.

Water & Sewer Connections: Reliable Utility Service

As a licensed water service connection contractor, Stormwater Facilities secured a Water and Sewer Connection Permit for the property. We installed 150 feet of new up-sized water and new PVC sewer lines, bringing new 1.5-inch water service right to the property line. After obtaining a separate Water Tap Permit, our team also handled the installation of a 1.5-inch live water tap, including a new water metering vault. This required the demolition and restoration of road asphalt, as well as the abandonment of old service connections and the return of the old water meter to public works.

These water service upgrades enhance the property’s utilities while meeting Anne Arundel County’s residential fire sprinkler water hookup standards, ensuring reliable service and safety for the new residents, providing dependable water access for years to come.

To protect the area from potential runoff, the team will install a 50-square-foot drywell connected by 60 feet of downspout piping from the garage guest house. Landscaping was completed according to the design plans, with 404 plantings to preserve the natural appeal of the waterfront property and support local ecology.

Addressing Extras with Flexibility and Expertise

Throughout the project, our team encountered several unexpected challenges, from tree stump discoveries to hidden drywells and generations of buried hardscapes. Each issue was efficiently resolved, including filling the drywell with #57 stone, excavating additional stumps, and handling the removal of a buried concrete well. To provide safe access to the waterfront, we expanded 20 steps from 3.8 feet to 6 feet wide and installed a connecting sidewalk leading to the pier, ensuring future residents can fully enjoy the beautiful waterfront views.

With the dedicated expertise of Birdland Builders and Stormwater Facilities, this Anne Arundel County waterfront property is well on its way to becoming a standout residence. From initial demolition to careful water and sewer upgrades, every step has been meticulously planned and executed to meet the highest standards of quality and environmental responsibility.