Modular Soil Cell System for Streetscape Canopy Trees
How It Works
Rooth Growth Without Modules
Urban tree planting faces long-term risks due to the competing demands of typical streetscape features – such as sidewalks, pavement, curbs, and utilities – and the need for healthy canopy tree development. Pavement subgrade is often compacted to 95% Standard Proctor density, while most canopy trees require a lightly compacted soil density, typically below 80%. Compacted soil restricts root space, which can lead to tree failure as they mature. Constrained roots can also damage pavement and sidewalks as they grow. This ultimately creates dead space in the streetscape design and hazardous conditions for pedestrians.
How It Works
Rooth Growth With Modules
The StormTank Urban Root System allows healthy root growth in an uncompacted soil volume so street trees can develop to maturity. The suspended pavement system can be designed for the specific soil volume requirements of the tree species being planted. The subgrade below the system and the fill above the StormTank Module can be compacted to 95% Standard Proctor density without limiting root growth.
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University of South Carolina
To support the health of canopy trees surrounding its new track and field facility, the University of South Carolina selected the StormTank Urban Root System as a value-engineered alternative to the originally specified soil cell. Eight years after installation, an independent arborist assessment using radar and drone technology confirmed healthy root development across all inspected trees, demonstrating the system’s long-term success in a challenging urban environment.
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Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT)
During a major streetscape revitalization in Miami-Dade County, FDOT approved the StormTank Urban Root System as a cost-effective alternative to a specified soil cell product, reducing material costs by approximately 40%. The system has proven its effectiveness more than eight years later, with trees showing strong growth and stability along West Flagler Street.
How It Works
Project Gallery
OVERVIEW
Urban Root System
Ensure the long-term health of your urban canopy trees while protecting sidewalks, curbs, and pavement from root damage. The StormTank Urban Root System is a robust, soil-supporting containment structure utilizing StormTank 25 Series Modules. This system supports AASHTO HS-25/HS-20 heavy vehicle loads while creating a void space for uncompacted soil – allowing for unobstructed root development and improved tree health.
RELIABLE ROOT PROTECTION
Promotes healthy tree growth
Prevents infrastructure damage
Fully-factored HS-25 load rating
Supports green infrastructure and Low Impact Development (LID) objectives
StormTank offers support during the design, review, and construction phases of the Module system. StormTank Modules are delivered to the site as palletized components requiring simple assembly. No special equipment, tools, or bonding agents are required; only a rubber mallet.
We recommend that the installing contractor contact either StormTank or the local distributor prior to installation of the system to schedule a pre-construction meeting. This meeting will ensure that the installing contractor has a firm understanding of the installation instructions.
Brentwood offers limited express product warranties. The StormTank product line is engineered to meet the most stringent industry performance standards and provide a flexible solution for varying project demands. Utilized for infiltration, detention, reuse, and pretreatment purposes, StormTank products offer a quality, cost-effective, and sustainable solution for stormwater management.
