"Passaic County will be holding a workshop called "Green Streets 101" on June 11 to
discuss how to better include green infrastructure into the county's
capital planning."
I always had a strong interest in topics associated with the Passaic River Basin, which led me to focus my research project on it during my Master's. It's probably because one of my first WAH-TAH resources assignments as an engineer was to develop a hydraulic model for a portion of the river.
As many from North Jersey may know, Passaic County is part of the Passaic River Basin, which is considered one of the most flood prone watersheds in the U.S. We see the flood damages every year on the news... billions of dollars worth of damages having occurred already since the early 1900's. It is a constant concern, especially for the residents, local businesses, etc.
Many studies have been prepared and proposed approaches (e.g., buyouts and elevated homes, levees, etc.) have been published. For example, the Passaic River Flood Advisory Commission published their 15-recommendations last year. Also, many may know of the USACE "Main-Stem" Plan proposed a long time ago, which consisted of an underground flood tunnel. The tunnel, however, has been very controversial due to the uncertainties in environmental impacts and costs.
I remember one of my professors telling us, "Engineers can solve any problem, just hand us a blank check". It's very true. A massive project such as the underground flood tunnel may be one of the large-scale, long-term solutions, especially with increasing development and urbanization and the growing costs associated with recovery. It's been done before. For example, Japan has massive underground flood tunnels. But, how can we fund this type of project (not considering environmental impacts)?
Green infrastructure to the rescue?! Well, no. Is it a strong player as part of a comprehensive solution? Yes! It's not going to be the answer to all problems, but, I am a firm believer that the widespread use of green infrastructure practices can help manage smaller and more frequent storms and provide a sustainable environment. AND, it's cost-effective.
So, great news!
"The workshop will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Passaic County Public Safety Academy, 300 Oldham Road, Wayne. To RSVP for the workshop contact Jennifer Gonzalez in the Passaic County Planning Department at 973-569-4040 or jenniferg@passaiccountynj.org."
Wish I could attend, but I will be on an oversight job for the next two weeks in Upstate NY.
Enjoy!
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