The city plans to use a different approach to tackle its longstanding flood problems.
Beau Evans reports on efforts in New Orleans to address flood threats by shifting away from pumping water to retaining it. “Doing so would ease the burden placed on pumps and underground drainage pipes during storms, and more water stored over time would help replenish the city's groundwater levels to counteract the sinking effects of subsidence,” says Evans.
The 2013 Urban Water Plan described the many challenges New Orleans faces in dealing with stormwater. “Perhaps more concisely than any other document, it dissects the combined influences of the city's low-lying topography, subsidence, impervious surfaces and the constant threat of heavy rains that often overwhelm the drainage system,” reports Evans.
Evans says the city has been slow in getting projects off the ground that use the retention-hold approach, with a backlog of about $250 million in projects when Mayor LaToya Cantrell came on board in the spring. A series of green infrastructure projects to contain water are planned for the next several months, including construction of retention ponds, rain gardens, and permeable pavement.
FULL STORY: New Orleans dips its toes into living with water
As the Mississippi River Rises, So Does the Threat to New Orleans
Climate change and channelization have made high water levels the norm along the river. But low-lying New Orleans lies in its path, and the consequences could be monumental.
As Temperatures Increase, Maps Show Sea-Level Rise Will Devastate Cities
Data visualizations illustrate the catastrophic consequences of single-digit global temperature increases.
Study: D.C.’s Poorest Neighborhoods Are Most Vulnerable to Stormwater
Lack of gray and green infrastructure in the city’s densest communities, particularly in historically Black Southeast D.C., has led to higher amounts of flooding in those neighborhoods.
Seattle Legalizes Co-Living
A new state law requires all Washington cities to allow co-living facilities in areas zoned for multifamily housing.
NYC Officials Announce Broadway Pedestrianization Project
Two blocks of the marquee street will become mostly car-free public spaces.
Denver's New High-Rise Integrates Vertical Canyon in Architectural Design
Unlike other new builds in Denver, Colorado, a new high-rise reveals a unique “sculptural canyon” running vertically through the facade to foster a sense of community and connection to nature.
California E-Bike Rebate Program Launches — Again
After a series of fits and starts, CARB says the program will begin accepting applications this month.
Analysis: Localized Upzoning Less Effective
Changing zoning rules for a small number of parcels can increase land values and housing costs without boosting the housing supply.
Amtrak Breaks Ridership Record in FY 2024
More Americans than ever rode the rails last year, also bringing the agency its highest ticket revenue.
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