What type of pavement allows storm water to percolate to the subgrade?

Porous pavement is specifically designed to allow stormwater to percolate through its surface and into the underlying layers, which can help manage runoff and recharge groundwater. This type of pavement consists of materials that create voids, draining the water rather than allowing it to flow off the surface as it would with traditional impervious materials. The design helps to minimize puddling, reduce flood risks, and promote better water quality by filtering pollutants as water passes through the pavement.

In contrast, impervious pavement does not allow any infiltration; it sheds water and contributes directly to surface runoff. Concrete pavement typically offers some water retention but is generally not considered porous unless specifically engineered for that purpose. Asphalt pavement, while it can be made with some permeable options, generally serves as an impervious surface as well unless designed with specific porous features. Thus, porous pavement is a clear choice for effective stormwater management through infiltration.