Scaling Up Networks of Small Green Infrastructure

The next stage of a pilot project such as Vacant to Vibrant is “scaling up” into something larger. For green stormwater infrastructure projects, an objective of scaling up is achieving measurable reductions in stormwater runoff, such as reducing total volume or peak flow, which is critical for sewer and stormwater systems. For urban greening projects, the purpose of scaling up is to achieve measurable effects on human health, property values, crime rates, and the environment. For vacant land reuse projects, scaling up means stabilizing home prices and slowing outward migration, foreclosure, abandonment, and demolition. For projects such as Vacant to Vibrant that sit at the intersection of stormwater management, urban greening, and vacant land use, any of these outcomes could be goals for scaling up.