- Resiliency planning
- Nature-based solutions
- Stormwater green infrastructure
- Hydrologic & hydraulic analysis
- Engineering design
- Conceptual-level cost opinions
- 亚星游戏官网tland delineation & permitting
- Community outreach
- Funded by MA Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) Action Grant
Challenge
GZA was selected to advance the City of Northampton鈥檚 Climate Resiliency and Regeneration Plan by to improve flood control and stormwater management during extreme weather events.
Solution
GZA is collaborating with the City of Northampton鈥檚 Office of Planning & Sustainability and Department of Public Works on this project, funded in part with a grant from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) Action Grant Program. At each of 10 locations, GZA studied existing engineering reports and conducted hydrologic and hydraulic modeling as needed. GZA鈥檚 feasibility assessment identified potential project benefits (including improved stormwater quality, reduction in potential flooding and storm damage, ecological enhancement, and educational opportunities) and challenges (including maintenance, permitting, subsurface conditions, and access). A conceptual-level cost opinion was also developed.
In keeping with the City鈥檚 goal to use nature-based solutions for climate resiliency, green infrastructure elements, such as berms, swales, rain gardens and pervious surfaces were incorporated into GZA鈥檚 conceptual designs to detain and retain stormwater runoff. The City has prioritized the projects based on feasibility, cost, and effectiveness in mitigating flood hazards and property damage to nearby roads, homes, and businesses. Conceptual designs selected by the City are being advanced to 100% construction-ready design plans.
Benefit
GZA鈥檚 analysis and designs will not only improve the City鈥檚 stormwater quality and reduce flooding but will provide demonstration projects to inform additional resiliency projects.