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Other Greenways InitiativesThe Greenways Branch of Engineering Services, in addition to implementing the Greenways Plan, initiates, delivers and participates in environmentally sustainable infrastructure projects for the City of Vancouver. Recent projects include: Crown Street Sustainable Streetscape - This stormwater management and traffic calming project was completed in February 2006. Instead of the standard curb and gutter, this residential street was constructed with natural drainage courses that allow stormwater to infiltrate rather than be carried away in the sewer system. The ecological benefits include stabilizing the base flows in nearby creeks, filtering of pollutants from stormwater and placing less demand on the stormwater system. The roadway was constructed as a meandering, narrow street to slow and calm traffic, and is bordered by structural grass and planted swales.
Rain Gardens -The City of Vancouver is working to reduce the amount of rainwater that flows into the sewers during storms. One feature the City is experimenting with, the Rain Garden, allows storm water from the street to be channeled into the planted areas behind curbs. Here the water is able to gradually infiltrate into the ground. Only when the storm is too severe and the ground can no longer absorb it will the excess water drain into the sewer. This helps reduce and slow the flow of water that would have otherwise quickly passed through the sewers and possibly into adjacent creeks. Reducing the rush of water and sediment from entering steams helps to support fish habitat by more closely mimicking natural processes. Country Lanes - The City of Vancouver has developed an alternative to the traditional asphalt lane. This new "Country Lane" uses materials that allow rainwater to infiltrate into the ground while providing a durable surface for vehicles to drive on. These aesthetically pleasing lanes help calm traffic and are more environmentally responsible than their asphalt counter parts. A pilot project that consisted of three lanes was completed in August 2003. The lanes feature two narrow strips of concrete or reinforced gravel that provide a smooth driving surface. The areas around these strips are planted with grass that is supported by a hidden grid below the surface. This "structural grass" supports vehicles while preventing rutting and soil compaction that could damage grass roots. Under this hidden grid is a gravel and soil mixture that allows for drainage while providing the nutrients and water required for grass growth. Allowing precipitation to percolate into the ground helps reduce and slow the water that would otherwise runoff into sewers and adjacent creeks. Retaining runoff helps recharge groundwater and reduce peak flows rates into rivers. The increased vegetation in these lanes helps filter stormwater contaminants, improve air quality and combat the "heat island effect" of higher temperatures in heavily developed areas.
See Boulevard Planting Guidelines |
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