PDX Green Streets & SNP
Our SNP South crew works to install Portland Green Streets!
Green Streets is an incredible initiative that protects salmon and local waterways, improves city stormwater management, and brings the ecosystem together. SNP is so excited to be a part of such a project that sets real nature-based solutions into action! We've compiled some information about why Green Streets is so cool. Although, the list just keeps growing and growing as research progresses. The Green Streets program is ahead of its time, combining function and aesthetic into an urban planning solution that works.
Our crews are specialized in working with the young native and water-wise plants used in these projects. We deliver a quality project as these babies are installed. This is super important labor that serves the entire ecosystem. Please honor the efforts of our crews by being a good Green Streets neighbor.
Want help with your green stormwater infrastructure project?
We work with agencies and individuals alike to protect our waterways and keep our region green! We would love to help in the consultation, installation, or maintenance phases of your project. We provide full-service urban restoration and green stormwater infrastructure.
Here’s some more information on Green Streets and why it's such a cool program.
What are Green Streets
Green Streets are small rain gardens installed in strategic areas around Portland to help manage stormwater.
Green streets are located along streets and sidewalks in the city. They are planted with special water-wise species that tolerate flooding and drought. The plants and soils help filter and moderate the rate of flow of water before it enters pipe systems.
This photo shows a very typical Green Streets rain garden including street trees and hardy shrubs alongside sedges and rushes. Plants are selected based on the surrounding environment, with special attention to traffic safety, and the neighborhood's input. Most herbaceous plants and shrubs are must remain short to retain visibility and spread wide to compete weeds.
The City has Won Multiple Awards for Green Streets Design
The American Society of Landscape Architects alone has granted three awards.
The City Parks Alliance reports that “Green Street projects have received international recognition and multiple design awards for their innovative approach to integrating functional and aesthetically pleasing stormwater management systems into public space.”
There is great potential in spreading Green Streets-style designs to other cities to bolster their water and greenspace management.
According to the City Parks Alliance, the project has successfully:
- Reduced peak flows from their drainage areas by at least 80% and up to 94%;
- Filter water to reduce total suspended solids by 90%, organic pollutants/oils by 90%, and heavy metals by more than 90%; and
- Offers a 40% cost reduction compared to a traditional pipe upsize and replacement project.
Ecosystem Services Offered by Green Streets
Where nature's form meets function.
Green Streets are designed to weave natural solutions into the cityscape. They supply an array of services from protecting city infrastructure, filtering pollution, bolstering greenspace, and building community on multiple levels of the ecosystem!
Next time you happen upon a Green Streets installation, pause for a moment to take in the sight. Marvel at the shades of green, the texture of smooth leaves and bristly seedheads, the subtle movement of nesting bugs or birds. Beauty and the joy we experience from it is a mighty ecosystem service and just one of many provided by Green Streets.
The City of Portland names the following ecosystem services, although I think we can name more!
- Prevent sewer backups into streets and basements
- Protect water quality in rivers and streams by removing up to 90 percent of pollutants from the stormwater runoff before it flows into a waterbody
- Replenish groundwater supplies
- Absorb carbon and improve air quality
- Improve neighborhoods by adding green space
- Improve pedestrian and bicycle safety by calming traffic with vegetated curb extensions
- Protect our investments in Portland’s stormwater and sewer systems
Additionally, Green Streets
- Save the salmon
- Provide habitat for pollinators, insects, and birds
- Bring together neighborhood volunteer community
- Add peace of mind from tangible solutions for our shared planet
How You can Support Green Streets
Your Green Streets are part of your community garden — care for it!
The City of Portland advises the following to be a good Green Streets neighbor:
- Keep people, pets, and trash out of the planters.
- Keep inlets open.
- Don’t prune or cut the plants.
- If needed, you can water the plants during a dry spell.
- Report green street maintenance issues.
You can also volunteer to be a Green Streets Steward. Get more information on the City of Portland's website.
