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Framework of Practice:

Design & Build

This chapter from the Framework of Practice serves as a comprehensive guide for realizing the full potential of green stormwater infrastructure improvements through strong design and construction practices.

Drawing lessons from practitioners across the United States and Canada, this chapter identifies four guiding principles:

  • Define portfolio-level design goals
  • Establish adaptable design standards
  • Foster robust collaboration during design
  • Ensure high-quality construction

By applying these insights, organizations at all experience levels can enhance project performance, increase perceived effectiveness, and support the long-term success of their green infrastructure programs.

Green stormwater infrastructure offers a powerful solution for managing urban runoff, enhancing community spaces, and building climate resilience. However, realizing the full potential of these vital improvements hinges on strong design and construction practices. Over the past two decades, significant lessons have been learned about achieving success in this field.

Applying proven principles and best practices ensures projects perform as required and increases the perceived effectiveness of green infrastructure. Key design considerations include integrating community priorities, regulatory requirements, performance goals, and local conditions into design goals. Flexibility within standards can foster innovation, while collaboration across agencies, with community members, and with industry experts can lead to superior design outcomes. During construction, implementing best practices is crucial for meeting both performance expectations and long-term maintenance needs. Furthermore, integrating real-time feedback loops throughout both design and construction processes supports continuous improvement for future projects.

This chapter distills these keys to success, sharing valuable lessons from practitioners across the United States and Canada.

Exploring this chapter will answer the following questions: 

  • How can we develop multi-benefit design goals that align with regulatory requirements and community priorities?
  • What part of the design process can we standardize while allowing for flexibility and innovation?
  • How can collaboration across agencies, communities, and industry experts strengthen design outcomes?
  • What best practices ensure green infrastructure is constructed to meet performance expectations and long-term maintenance needs?
  • How can we integrate real-time feedback loops throughout design and construction to continuously improve future projects?

Start where you are

The green infrastructure field comprises individuals at various experience levels, so we encourage you to start wherever you are. Whether you are a seasoned professional or a newcomer and whether your organization has a mature or nascent green infrastructure program, you will find useful tools here. The strength of the Exchange lies in the diversity of our experiences and the knowledge we share with one another. 

Access the most relevant tool(s) for your personal learning journey:

TOOL 1: PRINCIPLES 

Understand the big picture of design & build.

 

TOOL 2: BEST PRACTICES 

Explore specific steps to designing and building.

 

TOOL 3: CASE STUDIES

Learn how peers are approaching design & build.

 

TOOL 4: RESOURCES

Access recommended resources on this topic.