Sustainable Stormwater Management: Evaluating the Effectiveness of Green Infrastructure in Midwestern Cities

Abstract

The problems of stormwater management are increasingly affecting urban areas in the Midwest as a result of the rapid urbanization process, deteriorating infrastructure, and the growing variability of the precipitation regime. Green infrastructure (GI) has become one of the sustainable solutions to reduce the risk of flooding, improve water quality, and enhance urban resiliency. This paper assesses the usefulness of GI measures, bioswales, permeable pavements, rain gardens, and green roofs when solving stormwater problems that are unique to Midwestern urban areas.
Based on the use of case studies, the analysis indicates the quantifiable hydrological, ecological and socio-economic advantages of the practice as well as restriction issues including the regulatory shortcoming, choice of funding and the relevance of maintenance. These results suggest that success can be achieved through coal planning, robust policies, and community involvement. Finally, the solution that GI provides goes beyond a mere technical process to a way of thinking towards more livable and sustainable cities and environments that are also climate-resistant.