Whiteville stormwater retention system being installed

WHITEVILLE, NC (WWAY) — Construction crews are installing an underground stormwater retention chamber at the site of the new Dollar General in Whiteville as part of the city’s stormwater management requirements.

The system is designed to capture and manage rainwater runoff from surfaces such as parking lots, roofs and roadways. Required under Whiteville’s storm water ordinance, the underground chamber helps reduce the risk of localized flooding while improving water quality.

Unlike traditional retention ponds, the chamber system is buried beneath the ground, saving space while allowing stormwater to slowly filter into the surrounding soil. Water collected during rainfall flows through drains and pipes into the chamber network, where it is temporarily stored before gradually soaking into the ground.

During heavy storms, the chambers can hold excess runoff until it can be safely released through a controlled outlet system. This process helps prevent nearby streams from becoming overwhelmed and reduces the potential for flooding on neighboring properties.

City officials say modern stormwater systems such as these play an important role in managing growth while protecting local waterways and infrastructure.