GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE
What is Green Infrastructure (GI)?
Green Infrastructure” (GI) is an umbrella term for stormwater management features that mimic nature. GI features use plants, soil and other natural materials to remove pollutants and allow stormwater to absorb back into the ground. These features help prevent flooding and reduce the amount of polluted water that goes to the City’s water bodies. GI also has many environmental, social and economic benefits.
Over the years, much of the unpaved surface in the affected neighborhoods has been covered with buildings and impervious blacktop, leading to decreased groundwater infiltration. Despite the significant annual rainfall in Boston, only a fraction is able to percolate into the soil naturally. The situation took a positive turn in 2005 with the establishment of the Groundwater Conservation Overly Disctrcit (GCOD) and in 2022 when the City unveiled a fresh directive mandating specific municipal endeavors to incorporate green infrastructure for environmental advantages and improved stormwater management utilizing GI which are depicted in the accompanying video.
Green Infrastructure (GI) is of paramount importance in ensuring the preservation of wood pile-supported structures through the safeguarding of groundwater levels. Regardless of their location in public spaces or on private properties, the implementation of GI systems serves as a highly efficient method to collect stormwater and redirect it into the ground, consequently recharging groundwater reservoirs for prolonged environmental viability. Such practices are indispensable for the continued durability of wood piles.
Hearing on increasing Green Stormwater Infrastructure Capacity at Boston Water & Sewer and the City of Boston (BGwT opening statement at 25:38)
Boston Porous Alley: When It Rains, It Recharges
In 2013, the Trust joined forces with the City of Boston and the Charles River Watershed Association to embark on a groundbreaking initiative - the City’s inaugural green alley project. This innovative endeavor served as a testing ground for cutting-edge porous pavement technology. The project's objectives encompassed mitigating flooding, curbing sewer overflows and stormwater pollution, and bolstering groundwater recharge efforts to combat the prevalent challenge of diminishing groundwater levels impacting various building owners across the City.
Public Alley 543, off of Columbus Avenue,
between West Canton and Holyoke Streets
Wells Logged
Public Alley No. 543: West Canton & Holyoke Street Area
22J-2346, 22J-2351
August 19th, 2013 - July 15th, 2024
(CLICK IMAGE TO ACCESS DATA)
