NEW BEDFORD, Mass. (WLNE) – From a grant through the Commonwealth’s Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness Program, and to begin the climate plan NB Resilient, the City of New Bedford is developing a Green Infrastructure Master Strategy and Implementation Roadmap.
Headed by the City’s Department of Environmental Stewardship, They’ve released a survey to help Residents become acquainted with green infrastructure, its benefits to New Bedford, and ask for feedback and concerns.
Mayor Jon Mitchell stated that New Bedford has been a leader in responding to climate change. This survey is an important step in strengthening our resilience. Green infrastructure is a collection natural solutions that infiltrate stormwater and store it or absorb it to reduce runoff into existing stormwater infrastructure. It is a solution which improves water quality, reduces flooding, mitigates extreme temperature, enhances neighborhood viability, and delivers environmental injustice if it is prioritized within historically marginalized communities.
This project will provide multiple benefits, including natural alternatives and stormwater collection methods, said Michele Paul (City director for resilience and environmental stewardship). Green Infrastructure allows for greater infiltration of rainwater into the ground. It undergoes natural treatment, and is less likely to be discharged to surface waters via underground piping. You can reduce heat and flash flooding by adding shade to the streets and using greener drainage methods throughout the city.
Though the new green infrastructure isn’t as traditional or hidden as the “gray infrastructure”, the benefits provided will be much healthier for our environment. The city intends to reach out and address questions and receive information from neighborhood-based groups and community groups.
For more information, visit the NB Resilient website Website.
