Stormwater Parks Part 1: Blending Urban Green Space with Water Management

With urban expansion outpacing natural infrastructure, cities face a growing challenge: managing the surge of stormwater that leads to flooding, pollution, and environmental harm. One innovative solution is the stormwater park—a green space designed not only for recreational use but also to manage stormwater through advanced engineering techniques.

In this first part of our two-part series, we’ll explore stormwater parks, how they work, and how they benefit local communities. In part two, we'll explore the role of high-rate bioretention in creating a successful stormwater park and look at some successful projects.

What is a Stormwater Park?

A stormwater park is a green infrastructure project designed to capture, treat, and manage stormwater while providing recreational and environmental benefits. These parks use natural features such as wetlands, ponds, and bioretention to slow down, infiltrate and filter stormwater before it enters local waterways. Unlike traditional stormwater infrastructure, which often lies underground, stormwater parks are visible, accessible, and designed to enhance the urban landscape.

How Do Stormwater Parks Work?

Stormwater parks function by intercepting rainfall and runoff from surrounding areas, directing it into carefully designed landscapes that promote infiltration, filtration, and evaporation. Typically, these parks include stormwater management features such as:

• Retention and Detention Basins: Temporary storage areas that slowly release water, reducing the risk of flooding.
• Constructed Wetlands: Areas planted with native vegetation that filter pollutants and provide wildlife habitat.
• Permeable Pathways: Walkways made of porous materials that allow water to seep into the ground rather than running off.
• Bioretention: Depressed areas filled with vegetation, soil, and filtration media to capture, treat, and slowly release stormwater runoff.

Benefits of Stormwater Parks Communities

Beyond stormwater management, stormwater parks provide a range of benefits:

1. Flood Control – By infiltrating or temporarily holding excess rainwater, these parks reduce the risk of urban flooding.
2. Water Quality Improvement: Infiltration reduces runoff volumes and pollutant loads and filtration removes pollutants such as heavy metals, oils, and sediments before they reach rivers and lakes.
3. Biodiversity and Habitat Creation: Native plants and wetlands support local wildlife, including birds, insects, and amphibians.
4. Community Recreation and Wellness: Many stormwater parks feature walking trails, picnic areas, and open spaces for community activities. They offer a respite from city life and help improve mental and physical health.
5. Environmental Education: Many stormwater parks include educational signage and programs that teach visitors about the importance of water conservation, ecosystem services, and sustainable urban development.

Stormwater parks represent a forward-thinking approach to urban water management. By combining flood control, treatment, and public green spaces, they create healthier, more resilient communities. As cities continue to grow, integrating stormwater parks into urban planning will be essential for sustainable development and environmental stewardship.

Next month, we will continue the conversation on stormwater parks by examining the role of high-rate bioretention in creating a successful stormwater park and some successful projects.