Integrating Urban Stream Restoration with Existing Utilities and Infrastructure: Minimizing Conflicts and Maximizing Collaboration
Cameron Atha, EIT
AECOM
Cincinnati, OH
Stream restoration in urban environments presents unique challenges due to the dense network of existing utilities and infrastructure that often intersect project sites. More often than not, practitioners must balance the goal of achieving ecological uplift with the realities of coordinating and protecting existing infrastructure. It can feel overwhelming when trying to untangle the complex web of above-ground and below-ground assets on a site.
Urban streams are routinely subjected to highly erosive storm flows, which degrade channels and expose utilities and infrastructure that were never intended to be uncovered. Water lines, power lines, sanitary sewers, and roadways are essential services, and protecting them is critical to maintaining community safety and resilience.
The increase in peak storm flows not only accelerates channel erosion but also heightens the vulnerability of adjacent infrastructure. Protecting these assets cannot be achieved without addressing erosive forces within the stream itself.
This presentation explores practical strategies and case studies for successfully integrating stream restoration designs with existing infrastructure. Additionally, good coordination and outside-the-box thinking can create innovative long-term success for stream restoration projects and the surrounding infrastructure.
About Cameron Atha, EIT
Coming Soon