The City of Raleigh has launched a new virtual tour highlighting its green stormwater infrastructure (GSI) projects. The GSI Virtual Tour aims to showcase how the city utilizes GSI to enhance local water quality.
“Green Stormwater Infrastructure, or GSI, provides a reliable, nature-based solution for protecting water quality,” the release states. It explains that various types of GSI, such as rain gardens, help manage stormwater runoff by spreading it out and soaking it up. These infrastructures not only improve water quality but also offer additional benefits like reducing flood risk and creating community spaces.
Residents are encouraged to participate in visual monitoring of these projects through a pilot program initiated by the city. “Help us monitor GSI by using one of the mounted phone stands to snap a photo, and then share it with us!” the statement urges.
The city is also offering educational opportunities through its Rain Garden Apprenticeship Program in collaboration with Urban Sustainability Solutions. This initiative targets high school students and teachers interested in gaining hands-on experience with GSI.
Additionally, the Raleigh Rainwater Rewards program offers financial incentives for residents who implement their own GSI projects at home or business locations. “Raleigh Rainwater Rewards provides up to 90% cost-sharing of project expenses for GSI projects like rain gardens, cisterns, permeable pavement, and more,” according to the release.
