USING COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND PARTNERSHIPS TO CULTIVATE STRONG ROOTS FOR GREEN STORMWATER INFRASTRUCTURE (GSI) IN DETROIT, MI

摘要

The multi-faceted stormwater management efforts led by Detroit Water and Sewer Department (DWSD) in the City of Detroit promote green stormwater infrastructure (GSI) implementation on public and private property. The goal of stormwater management using GSI is to restore water quality and protect public health while controlling rate increases needed to pay for new wet weather treatment. While each GSI project requires sound engineering, DWSD recognizes that the success of these projects is also dependent on effective partnerships and community engagement throughout all project phases. To ensure GSI takes root in Detroit, DWSD has invested significant time and effort in cultivating partnerships among key GSI collaborators, including city departments, non-governmental organizations, academia, and neighborhood groups, while providing meaningful community engagement and outreach strategies to generate public support for GSI features. The goal of community and partner engagement is to ensure GSI projects are socially-acceptable and provide multiple benefits at the neighborhood and city-scale. With increased awareness of the functions and benefits of GSI, this approach to stormwater management is taking root in Detroit.