A Case Study: Urban Stream Design for Ecosystem Interactivity
Whitney Thomas, PE, CFM, ENV SP
Timmons Group
Stormwater Division
Richmond, VA
At the root of much debate surrounding ecosystem restoration projects is whether we are restoring to a condition solely for natural habitat or whether the restoration should be designed for human interaction. Considering these perspectives, as well as the future needs at the project site, are important when determining site-specific design objectives. Many streams throughout the Chesapeake Bay Watershed are in urban areas that have had decades of modifications, resulting in streams fed primarily by stormwater outfalls. These are often located adjacent to buildings and are prone to flooding due to the floodplains having been narrowed and developed. However, the streams in these areas are often a location for multiple forms of recreation in addition to providing greenways where animal habitat is often condensed. The urban stream is often the most accessible waterway and green space to many people in urban areas. Visitation and interaction with streams and waterways have been found to provide alleviation from urban heat island effects, an opportunity for stress relief through recreational activities, and reduction in anxiety and attention fatigue. The inclusion of human accessibility and interactive components, in addition to restoring stream pattern, profile, habitat, and biodiversity, are components of ecosystem restoration design in urban areas. This discussion will involve a case study of an urban stream design project in the Chesapeake Bay, intended to re-establish riverine pattern and profile and habitat, while incorporating elements to encourage human interaction, all the while balancing regulatory requirements. An overview of the partnerships, co-operations, funding, permitting, outreach, future considerations, and obstacles overcome during the course of the project will be discussed.
About Whitney Thomas, PE, CFM, ENV SP
Whitney Thomas is a Project Manager at Timmons Group in Virginia with a focus in stream and ecological restoration, green infrastructure design, and Chesapeake Bay TMDL compliance. She enjoys working with urban and rural stakeholders, from the individual, municipality, state, and federal systems alike to improve water quality and to integrate natural systems with urban needs in design. She has over 13 years’ experience, with background work in Floodplain Management, Municipal (MS4) and NPDES Permitting and Program Support, Dam Safety, TMDL Compliance, Grant Assistance, Stormwater BMP Planning and Design, and Watershed Analyses, amongst other work.