green infrastructure
Permeable pavement
Rain Gardens
Permeable Pavement
Pavement designed with high porosity that lets rainwater pass through and soak into the ground below, helping to manage stormwater naturally.
Costs:
• Permeable concrete and asphalt: $6–$15 per square foot
• Permeable pavers: $8–$40 per square foot
Key Considerations:
• Soil type affects installation methods and requirements
• Placement of foundation walls and underground utilities must be considered
Representative Use Cases –
Madison, WI
https://www.cityofmadison.com/engineering/stormwater/programs-initiatives/permeable-pavement
Field Conditions:
Permeable pavement works best in low traffic locations where managing stormwater is a priority. Ideal applications include low-volume roads, residential driveways, sidewalks, parking lots, utility and access roads, emergency access lanes, fire lanes, and alleys.
rain gardens
Rain gardens are shallow, landscaped depressions designed to capture and absorb rainwater runoff from hard surfaces like roofs, driveways, and streets.
Costs:
Typically ranges from $10 to $20 or more per square foot.
Key Considerations:
• Location of underground utilities
• Availability of right-of-way space
• Soil type and drainage capacity
• Site slope and grading for proper water flow
Representative Use Cases – NYC:
Field Conditions:
Best suited for flat or gently sloped areas, located away from buildings, with well-draining soil.