In 2025, we were thrilled to present two Stormwater Steward Awards: one to a community member committed to keeping his corner of Athens healthy and clean, and one to a firm that is redefining what stormwater-smart design looks like. 

The title of Residential Stormwater Steward was awarded to Bob Dulinawka, who was nominated by Kyle Dalton, Land Development Administrator with the Transportation and Public Works Department. Mr. Dulinawka owns property on North Avenue and is often seen picking up litter and trimming weeds along the fenceline. Out of a genuine desire to care for his community, he routinely cleans up around nearby bus stops and even enters storm drains to remove trash and debris. He’s the kind of neighbor who quietly and consistently makes a big impact—protecting water quality and supporting the health of downstream stormwater infrastructure.

Our second award, the Commercial Stormwater Steward Award, went to SPG Planners + Engineers for their incredible work designing the green roof system at The Rambler Athens, a multi-use development in the heart of Downtown Athens. SPG designed an impressive system that includes thousands of square feet of green roof trays across three different levels, along with integrated irrigation and stormwater retention features. The design helps capture and slow down rainwater, keeping it from overwhelming our drainage system, while also reducing rooftop temperatures, improving air quality, and adding beauty and function to the space. SPG turned the challenge of downtown’s lack of traditional stormwater infrastructure into an opportunity by using rooftop space to its fullest potential. Their thoughtful, sustainable design at The Rambler is a great example of how green infrastructure can be functional, attractive, and climate-resilient.