J. THE WATER SYSTEMS FOR THE 21ST Sewerage Water Board OF NEW ORLEANS 625 ST. JOSEPH STREET MITCHELL J. LANDRIEU, President NEW ORLEANS, LA 70165 0 504-529-2837 OR 52W-A TER WM. RA YMOND MANNING, President Pro-Tem org April 24, 2014 Associate Director, Water Enforcement Branch (6EN-W) Compliance Assurance and Enforcement Division US. Environmental Protection Agency, Region VI 1445 Ross Avenue Dallas, Texas 75202-2733 Chief, Environmental Enforcement Section Environmental and Natural Resources Division US. Department of Justice 601 Street NW. Washington, DC 20579 Reference DOJ Case No. 90-5-1-1-4032 Re: Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Second Modi?ed Consent Decree Civil Action No. 93-3212 Paragraph 99: Submittal of Green Infrastructure Proposal Gentlemen: Pursuant to Paragraph 99 of the Second Modi?ed Consent Decree, the Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans hereby submits the Green Infrastructure Proposal within one year of the entry of the Second Modi?ed Consent Decree for April 24, 2014. This report contains proposed activities related to: 0 Identifying and selecting projects that embody the principles of living with water 0 Implementing projects that comply with green infrastructure design criteria 0 Developing partnerships to implement a regional approach to green infrastructure 0 Developing community outreach programs to provide education on green infrastructure practices and include the community in the decision making process to ensure sustainable projects 0 Inclusion of performance measures Members ofthe Board: MARION BRACY . STACY HEAD - KANE . WM. RAYMOND MANNING - MARK M. MOODY - MITCHELL J. LANDRIEU KRISTIN G. PALMER - GLEN PILIE W. SCHORNSTEIN 0 CHARLES F. WEBB - BEVERLY WRIGHT, PHD - LOYCE P. WRIGHT "An Equal Opportunity Employer" US. Environmental Protection Agency United States Department of Justice April 24, 2014 Page 2 These activities are described in Sections 3.0 Program Goals and Objectives, and 4.0 Approach to Implementation. Appendix A describes the RFP process for consideration. I certify that the information contained in or accompanying this document is true, accurate, and complete. As to those identi?ed portions of this document for which I cannot personally verify their truth and accuracy, I certify as the of?cial having supervisory responsibility for the persons who, acting under my direct instructions, made the veri?cation, that this is true, accurate, and complete. Sincerely, Jlxal Joseph Becker General Superintendent cc: Ted Palit, USEPA Benjamin F. Wilson, Beveridge Diamond Nolan P. Lambert, Special Counsel, Linda Walker, League of Women Voters of New Orleans Francine Giugno, President, League of Women Voters of New Orleans Marylee Orr, Executive Director, Louisiana Environmental Action Network Dr. John Lopez, Executive Director, Lake Pontchartrain Basin Foundation Jennifer 0. Coulson, Executive Director, Orleans Audubon Society Lisa W. Jordan, Supervising Attorney, Tulane Environmental Law Clinic Mike W. Tifft, Esq, Attorney, Orleans Audubon Society Members of the Board: MARION BRACY STACY HEAD a KERRI KANE 0 WM. RAYMOND MANNING 0 MARK M. MOODY I MITCHELL J. LANDRIEU KRISTIN G. PALMER - GLEN PILIE - FLORENCE W. SCHORNSTEIN - CHARLES F. WEBB BEVERLY WRIGHT, PHD LOYCE P. WRIGHT "An Equal Opportunin Employer? ?e/ar ?f Green Infrastructure Plan Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans 4/24/2014 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan Table of Contents 1.0 2.0 3.0 Introduction 1.1 Organization 1.2 Drainage System Guidance Documents 2.1 Second and Third Modified Consent Decree 2.2 Louisiana Pollution Discharge Elimination System (LPDES) Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4) 2.3 Greater New Orleans Urban Water Plan 2.4 City of New Orleans Master Plan 2.5 City of New Orleans Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance Program Goals and Objectives 3.1 Identifying and selecting projects that embody the principles of living with water 3.1.1 Social Criteria 3.1.2 Economic Criteria 3.1.3 Environmental Criteria 3.2 Implementing projects that comply with green infrastructure design criteria. 3.2.1 Stormwater BMP Guidance Tool: A Stormwater Best Management Practices Guide for Orleans and Jefferson Parishes 3.2.2 Greening CSO Plans: Planning and Modeling Green Infrastructure for Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) Control 3.2.3 New Orleans Redevelopment Authority – NORA Green 3.2.4 Other Technical Resources 3.3 Developing partnerships to implement a regional approach to green infrastructure 3.3.1 City of New Orleans Department of Public Works 3.3.2 City of New Orleans Department of Parks and Parkway 3.3.3 New Orleans Redevelopment Authority 3.3.4 LPDES MS4 co-permittees 3.3.5 Carrollton-Hollygrove Community Development Corporation (CHCDC) 3.3.6 Horizon Initiative Water Committee (HIWC) 3.3.7 Louisiana Urban Stormwater Coalition (LUSC) 3.3.8 Lake Ponchartrain Basin Foundation (LPBF) 3.3.9 Orleans Parish Water Quality Task Force (OPWQTF) 3.3.10 New Orleans Mosquito, Termite & Rodent Control Board 3.3.11 EPA Office of Research and Development 3.4 Developing community outreach programs to provide education on green infrastructure practices and include the community in the decision making to ensure sustainable projects 3.4.1 Targeting education of school age children 3.4.2 Targeting residents through community/neighborhood workshops 3.4.3 Targeting commercial businesses and professionals 3.4.4 Developing brochures and utilize websites or social media 3.5 Inclusion of performance measurements, including monitoring of water quality, to help evaluate the siting and selection of future proposed green infrastructure projects. 3.5.1 GIS mapping of green infrastructure projects 3.5.2 Monitoring and analysis of water quality April 2014 1 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan Table of Contents (Continued) 3.5.3 4.0 Tracking of community workshops/presentations Approach to Implementation Appendix A: Request for Proposals for Green Infrastructure and Addenda 1 and 2 List of Figures Figure 1: Figure 2: Figure 3: Figure 4: Figure 5: Figure 6: Figure 7: Figure 8: April 2014 New Orleans Sewer Service Basins FEMA Repetitive Flood Losses, Greater New Orleans Urban Water Plan-Implementation New Orleans Elevation, GNO Community Data Center (Aug 2005) Space Geodesy and Subsidence and flooding in New Orleans, Timothy Dixon et al, Nature 441 (1 June 2006) Green Infrastructure Performance Matrix – Orleans Parish Conceptual diagram of a corner street basin, NORA New Orleans East Region Soils, New Orleans Drainage Plan, CDM SWBNO brochure on “How to Disconnect” Downspouts 2 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans 1.0 Green Infrastructure Plan Introduction New Orleans is at a watershed point in the management of its urban stormwater. Although the city’s century old drainage system will continue to be the primary means for draining the city into the foreseeable future, New Orleans is poised to add a significant new component to its drainage infrastructure. Green Infrastructure activities have mushroomed in all corners of the city in recent years—on private lots, in city parks, in parking lots, public rights-of ways, and in residential yards. The private sector from community groups, landscape engineers, environmental/ “green” non-profits to universities have been green infrastructure pioneers in developing rain gardens, bioswales, and permeable pavement throughout the city. The public sector of New Orleans is primed to take the leap of developing and implementing green infrastructure as a tool for stormwater management. Several recently adopted or imminent planning and regulatory policies have helped spur the public sector’s immersion in green infrastructure initiatives. These plans and policies emphasize implementation of best management practices to retain, reuse and delay stormwater while simultaneously improving water quality, mitigating flooding, and lessening the burden on the drainage system. The Green Infrastructure Plan (Plan) is a formal commitment by the Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans (SWBNO) and the City of New Orleans (City) to explore and pursue inclusion of green infrastructure as fulfillment of the Second Modification of the Consent Decree entered on April 24, 2013. The Plan presented herein represents input gathered from presentations made to various organizations (Horizon Water Initiative Committee, Lake Pontchartrain Basin Foundation, League of Women Voters of New Orleans, Louisiana Environmental Action Network, Louisiana Civil Engineering Conference and Show, Lower Ninth Neighborhood, Orleans Audubon Society, Sierra Club, and Sustainability Series), and discussions with EPA representatives and participation in the Greater New Orleans Foundation Urban Water Series. The Plan describes the policies guiding development of the Plan, description of the principal goals and objectives for green infrastructure, understanding of the approach toward achieving the goals, and establishment of performance measurements. Furthermore, as part of the commitment to green infrastructure in the Third Modification of the Consent Decree (lodged on March 13, 2014 and currently under public review), the SWBNO agreed to dedicate $500,000 per year, averaged over the next five years, to be subsequently used for green infrastructure projects and activities carried out pursuant to the Plan. Therefore, the Plan is expected to be updated to reflect the projects awarded, the lessons learned, and reflect the successes and failures in changes to the goals and objectives. 1.1 Organization The Sewerage & Water Board of New Orleans (SWBNO) was created in 1899 by the Louisiana Legislature to furnish, construct, operate, and maintain a water treatment and distribution system and a sanitary sewerage system for the City of New Orleans (City). The Drainage Commission was organized earlier in 1896 to develop a drainage master plan for the City. In 1903, SWBNO merged with the New Orleans Drainage Commission in order to consolidate these various programs into one agency for more efficient operations. SWBNO is an agency of the State of Louisiana, confirmed by a State Supreme Court decision, charged with the responsibility for constructing, operating, and maintaining the water, sewerage, and drainage systems for the City (i.e. Orleans Parish) and drainage facilities in part of Jefferson Parish. April 2014 3 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan SWBNO’s mission is to provide safe drinking water to everyone in New Orleans; to remove wastewater for safe return to the environment; to drain away stormwater; to provide water for fire protection; to provide information about products and services; and to do all of this continuously at a reasonable cost to the community. The vision of SWBNO is to have the trust and confidence of our customers for reliable and sustainable water services. SWBNO is staffed to implement the Green Infrastructure Plan. The Environmental Affairs Department under the oversight and guidance of both the General and Deputy General Superintendents will be the lead on all efforts. The Environmental Affairs Department is responsible for overseeing all regulatory compliance and permits for the SWBNO. They have a dedicated stormwater division, including environmental planners and technical inspectors. The department is supported by Engineering, Networks, Operations and Plumbing Departments with staff expertise in design, construction and inspection, and operations of water, sewer, drainage and power systems. 1.2 Drainage System The City of New Orleans is situated in a geographic depression where many areas are six feet or more below sea level. The City is bounded by the Mississippi River (bisecting the East and West Bank of the City) and Lake Pontchartrain to the north. A series of levees have been constructed to protect the City from surge waters associated with severe tropical events. These levees are maintained by federal and state governmental agencies. SWBNO maintains a drainage system comprised of 24 pump stations and 13 underpass pumping stations. The system's pumping capacity is over 29 billion gallons a day, enough to empty a lake 10 square miles by 13.5 feet deep every 24 hours. That flow rate (over 45,000 cubic feet per second) is more than the flow rate of the Ohio River, the nation's fifth largest river. A network of subsurface drainage pipes operated by the City collects all rainfall from city streets and discharges it to either open or concreted reinforced, covered canals operated and maintained by the SWBNO. The rainwater is pumped via a network of 90 miles of open unlined canals, ranging from 6 to 125 feet wide, and 90 miles of subsurface canals, ranging from 8 inches to 28 feet wide, into Lake Pontchartrain, with the exception of two West Bank pumping stations and two Eastern New Orleans that pump rainwater into the Intracoastal Waterway or the Industrial Canal. New Orleans receives an average of 63 inches of rain per year. SWBNO is capable of pumping the first inch of rain in the first hour and ½ inch for each hour after that. 2.0 Guidance Documents Development of the Green Infrastructure Plan is guided by recently published permits and guidance documents from local, state and federal agencies and private entities. The documents are listed as follows: 1. Second and Third Modified Consent Decrees 2. Louisiana Pollution Discharge Elimination System (LPDES) Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4) 3. Greater New Orleans Urban Water Plan April 2014 4 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan 4. City of New Orleans Master Plan 2010 5. City of New Orleans Draft Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance 2014 2.1 Second and Third Modified Consent Decrees The purpose of the Green Infrastructure Plan is to fulfil the commitment that Sewerage & Water Board of New Orleans (SWBNO) and the City of New Orleans (City) entered into the Second Modified Consent Decree with the United States Department of Justice, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Plaintiff-Interveners including the League of Women Voters of New Orleans, Louisiana Environmental Action Network, Lake Pontchartrain Foundation and Orleans Audubon Society on April 24, 2013. Per paragraph 99 of the Second Modified Consent Decree: “Defendants commit to explore and pursue inclusion of green infrastructure as part of the RMAPs for all Basins under the Second Modified Consent Decree. Defendants may pursue those measures at any location within its system. Defendants commit to coordinate and work with EPA, and to consult with Plaintiff-Interveners, in this effort. Defendants will submit their green infrastructure proposal to EPA within one year of the entry of this Second Modified Consent Decree. Defendants’ green infrastructure commitment shall be final and limited to entry of this Second Modified Consent Decree.” The Third Modified Consent Decree, currently undergoing public review, amends that paragraph, renumbered as paragraph 100 to read as follows: “Defendants shall develop a plan to incorporate green infrastructure as part of the RMAPs for all Basins. Defendants may pursue those measures at any location within its system. Defendants commit to coordinate and work with EPA, and to consult with Plaintiff-Interveners, in this effort. Defendants will submit the green infrastructure plan to EPA for review by April 24, 2014 – one year after entry of the Second Modified Consent Decree. As part of this commitment, the Board agrees to dedicate $500,000 per year, averaged over the next five years, to be subsequently used for green infrastructure projects and activities carried out pursuant to the plan. In addition, the Board shall include in its quarterly and annual reports submitted pursuant to paragraphs 56 and 57 above a summary of any green infrastructure activities undertaken pursuant to this paragraph or the plan developed under it. Defendants’ green infrastructure commitment as stated herein shall be final and shall satisfy all green infrastructure requirements contained in any and all Consent Decrees issued in this matter.” The modified consent decrees require the Plan to incorporate green infrastructure as part of the Remedial Measures Actions Plans (RMAPs) for all Basins. A basin is defined as a sewer service area in which all wastewater flows by gravity to a sewer pump station, and from there pumped via a force main to the East Bank Wastewater Treatment Plant. There are nine Basins (Carrollton, Central Business District, Gentilly, Lakeview, Mid-City, New Orleans East, Ninth Ward, South Shore, and Uptown) on the East Bank of Orleans Parish as shown on Figure 1. April 2014 5 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan Figure 1: New Orleans Sewer Service Basins The consent decrees do not address the West Bank of the City of New Orleans, nor require implementation of the Plan in the Algiers Basins; however it is the intent of the SWBNO to incorporate green infrastructure for all the Basins, including Algiers. 2.2 Louisiana Pollution Discharge Elimination System (LPDES) Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4) The Louisiana Pollution Discharge Elimination System (LPDES) Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4) Permit was issued September 10, 2013, and became effective October 1, 2013, for the SWBNO, State of Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (District 2), City of New Orleans, Port of New Orleans, Orleans Levee District and the 17th Street Canal stormwater discharges from Jefferson Parish. The MS4 permit covers all areas located within Orleans Parish that are served by regulated municipal separate storm sewer systems. The MS4 permit Page 26, Part II, Paragraph 14 is a follows: “Green Infrastructure/Low Impact Development: In conjunction with Part II.A.9.d (Construction Site Run off-Site Plan Review) the permittees shall review requirements for construction developments to identify and remove impediments, where feasible, the use of Green Infrastructure/Low Impact Development practices that could help avoid water quality degradation, as well as, reduce flooding potential caused by increased runoff volumes and rates associated with development.” Further on the Page 27, Paragraph 14 of Part II, references and resources were provided for copermittees as follows: April 2014 6 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan “The Internet website http://water.epa.gov/infrastructure/greeninfrastructure/index.cfm serves as an informational clearinghouse for issues related to green infrastructure. Green infrastructure management approaches can be used to keep rainwater out of the sewer system so that it does not contribute to sewer overflow and also to reduce the amount of treated runoff discharging to surface waters. Green infrastructure also allows stormwater to be absorbed and cleansed by soil and vegetation and either re-used or allowed to flow back into groundwater or surface water resources. Other related resources can be found at www.epa.gov/dced, www.smartgrowth.or and www.epa.gov/owow/nps/lid.” And finally, the MS4 permit, Paragraph 9, Page 2 of Part VIII provides the following definition: “Green Infrastructure” generally refers to systems and practices that use or mimic natural processes to infiltrate, evapotranspirate (the return of water to the atmosphere through evaporation by plants), or reuse stormwater or runoff on the site where it is generated. Green infrastructure approaches that are currently used include green roofs; trees and tree boxes; rain gardens; vegetated swales; pocket wetlands; infiltration planters; porous and permeable pavements, vegetated median strips; reforestations/revegetation; and protection and enhancement of riparian buffers and floodplains.” SWBNO realizes it is in the best interest of the City and the region for all co-permittees as stakeholders to improve the water quality by reducing the amount of urban stormwater runoff into the Lake Pontchartrain Basin. The co-permittees have identified green infrastructure components (rain barrels, downspout disconnections, rain gardens, tree canopy, permeable pavement/subsurface storage, green roofs, and bioswales/bioretention ponds) that, if successfully implemented, can significantly improve water quality and reduce the quantity of stormwater runoff entering Lake Pontchartrain. The MS4 Permit has recognized that stormwater management is not the sole responsibility of one entity and has issued the permit to multiple agencies to ensure a regional approach in the development and implementation of green infrastructure practices. Each agency brings a unique perspective in management of stormwater. Gathering input from each agency can be further expanded to gathering input from the community that green infrastructure impacts as well as utilizing resources available on the EPA website such as the “EPA Greening CSO Plans: Planning and Modeling Green Infrastructure for Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) Control”. 2.3 Greater New Orleans Urban Water Plan Greater New Orleans, Inc. (GNO, Inc.) released in September 2013 The Greater New Orleans Water Plan. The plan is a vision for long-term urban water management that addresses groundwater and stormwater as critical factors in shaping a safer, more livable, and economically vibrant Southeast Louisiana. The plan proposes strategies of “living with water” by implementing green infrastructure practices to address flooding caused by excess runoff and subsidence caused by pumping of stormwater. GNO, Inc. provided maps (Figures 2-4) illustrating the repetitive loss claims due to flooding as determined by FEMA, elevation of New Orleans neighborhoods in 2005 and impact subsidence as of 2006. April 2014 7 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan Figure 2: FEMA Repetitive Flood Losses, Greater New Orleans Urban Water Plan-Implementation SWBNO is guided by GNO, Inc.’s plan to ensure that green infrastructure projects are developed and implemented to 1) address areas of repetitive flooding and/or subsidence, 2) be cost effective and show long term cost savings, and 3) provide benefit to the community whether its recreational or aesthetics. Figure 3: New Orleans Elevation, GNO Community Data Center (Aug 2005) April 2014 8 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan Figure 4: Space Geodesy and Subsidence and flooding in New Orleans, Timothy Dixon et al, Nature 441 (1 June 2006) 2.4 City of New Orleans Master Plan New Orleans adopted the City’s first master plan entitled “Plan for the 21st Century: New Orleans 2030” in August 2010. The master plan provides a credible and legitimate basis for future public policy and decision making regarding, land use, development, zoning, city capacity expenditures, transportation and similar fundamental decisions that shape the city’s future for the next 20 years. Specifically in Volume 2, Chapter 12, Section 12, Resilience: Living with Water and Natural Hazards, the policy and recommended actions are as follows: “Develop a Stormwater Management Plan that will provide technical expertise, identify best management practices, and establish minimum requirements to control the adverse effects of stormwater runoff for all new development and capital improvements. ACTIONS • Convene a working group of city agencies, including the Department of Public Works, the Sewerage and Water Board, the City Planning Commission, Parks and Parkways, the Department of Safety and Permits, and the Office of Environmental Affairs to co-author the stormwater management plan. • April 2014 Create a stormwater management unit in the Sewerage and Water Board. Innovative stormwater management techniques that rely on natural drainage can reduce the costs of hard infrastructure and mitigate flooding from rain events. Retrofit parks, playgrounds, and neutral grounds to function as stormwater retention and groundwater filtration infrastructure. New Orleans has a wealth of playgrounds, parks, and neutral grounds that are not incorporated into the city’s 9 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan stormwater management system. All of these assets could be used to retain water in the event of a heavy rainstorm, and rain gardens and groundwater filtration infrastructure could be incorporated into their re-design. • Replace most lawn areas in neutral grounds and street swales with shrubs and groundcover. Stormwater engineering increasingly is adapting the lessons of natural systems to controlling and filtering runoff. These techniques can be applied at any scale, from backyard rain gardens to streets and city parks. Rain gardens are small areas that are lower in elevation than their surroundings and are filled with plantings. They capture stormwater from roofs and other drains and allow the water to seep into the ground. Lawns are only marginally superior to paved areas in retaining stormwater, particularly when soils are compacted, so less lawn and more groundcover, shrubs and trees in the neutral grounds will help the city manage water, mitigate flooding, and reduce subsidence. This planting strategy can coexist with the use of neutral grounds for walking and bike paths. On the neighborhood streets where there are no curbs or catch basins, plantings in drainage ditches (“swales”) improve stormwater management by enhancing absorption of water and reducing the velocity of stormwater. • Examine the feasibility of utilizing the Mississippi River as a potential source for managing groundwater levels and reducing subsidence. The desiccation of New Orleans’ soils over time is a principal reason why the city has experienced such a severe rate of subsidence. Dutch engineers and landscape architects who visited New Orleans and have suggested that the Mississippi River could potentially be used to maintain groundwater levels. • Incorporate natural drainage systems, create rain gardens and small scale water management infrastructure to reduce runoff and increase the permeability of the urban landscape. • Retrofit existing public buildings and design new public buildings to include stormwater management best practices including the use of pervious materials and green roofs. The many new and renovated public buildings underway during recovery present tremendous opportunity for the city government, New Orleans Public Schools, and other public bodies to pursue green building practices that will retain stormwater on-site rather than adding to runoff. • Determine the feasibility and cost of retrofitting drainage canals into landscape amenities (“blueways”) that are accessible to adjacent neighborhoods.” Volume 2, Chapter 12, Paragraph 13 addresses private property, as follows: “• Modify zoning and subdivision regulations to encourage on-site storage and filtration of stormwater. Aside from public buildings and public infrastructure, the other principal mechanism at the city’s disposal to manage stormwater and runoff is to permit and promote stormwater best practices on private property. April 2014 10 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan Encourage the use of green roofs, porous paving materials, and other techniques to encourage on-site storage of rainwater and to enhance groundwater filtration. Local building code regulations and zoning regulations should be adapted to permit green roofs, cisterns, rain gardens, porous paving materials and other on-site stormwater management techniques. Given the unique climatic challenges that New Orleans faces (mosquitoes, torrential rains, searing summer temperatures, and occasional tropical events), these guidelines must be carefully crafted to account for the exigencies of local conditions. The city should also actively encourage the use of these techniques through conditions attached to the disposition of publicly owned property and the use of public development subsidies.” SWBNO comprehends that in implementing the Plan, there is a need to a) continuously coordinate with all City departments as listed above, including New Orleans Mosquito, Termite and Rodent Control Board, to ensure successful implementation of green infrastructure projects; b) utilize the available public lands as sites, c) redesign existing green landscape to include stormwater management practices, d) locate projects in areas subject to subsidence or urban flooding, e) provide opportunities for demonstration of innovative technologies, and f) follow the project after construction for sustainability and suitability to the New Orleans climate. 2.5 City of New Orleans Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance The City of New Orleans Planning Commission issued a draft comprehensive zoning ordinance, including new Article 23-Stormwater Management Requirements, in October 2013 for public comments. Points of interest in the new article are as follows: “A. Storm water Management Measures 1. Effective on-site stormwater management is supported by a combination of successive BMP’s, outlined in Section 23.1(B) that are guided by the following overarching strategies: a. First, create conditions that allow detention and infiltration of storm water runoff through the use of pervious paving, open vegetated areas, green roofs, and other methods that allow water to permeate back into the ground. b. Next, additional stormwater runoff should be detained, stored, infiltrated, and filtered through the use of BMPs c. Finally, runoff in excess of the first 1.25 inches (expected to be revised to 1 inch) shall be allowed to exit the site through surface or subsurface drainage. 2. Infiltration practices must be utilized to reduce runoff volume increases, stabilize subsoils, and recharge shallow groundwater. 3. Best Management Practices (BMP) must be employed to minimize pollutants in stormwater runoff prior to discharge into a separate storm drainage system or water body. 4. All stormwater management facilities must be designed to provide an emergency overflow system, and incorporate measures to provide a non-erosive velocity of flow along its length and at any outfall. April 2014 11 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan 5. The designed release rate of any stormwater structure must be modified if any increase in flooding or stream channel erosion would result at a downstream dam, highway, structure or normal point of restricted stream flow. B. Storm water Best Management Practices Storm water best management practices (BMP) minimize runoff, increase infiltration, recharge groundwater and improve water quality. In order to accomplish the performance standard required by this section, stormwater BMPs must be used. Stormwater BMPs must be designed as described in Louisiana’s “Technical Design Standards: Landscape Design Components and Storm Water BMPs for the Model Storm Water Based Landscape Code.” The model code provides engineers, developers, property owners, and citizens with information on storm water management requirements, technical guidance on the methodology to be used to meet the requirements, and guidelines for designing, implementing, and maintaining the BMPs in the City of New Orleans. Additional BMPs may be considered but must be approved as part of the storm water management plan. The following BMPs are not prescriptive, but provide guidance for establishing a sitespecific storm water management regime: 1. Bioswales 2. Circular depressions 3. Constructed wetlands 4. Detention and retention basins 5. Disconnected roof tops, recycling, and irrigation 6. Ditch gardens 7. Flow Diffusers 8. French drains, infiltration trenches and dry wells 9. Grassed swales 10. Habitat Preservation and protection areas 11. Permeable pavers, porous surfaces, grass paving, and structural soils 12. Planted storm water buffers 13. Preserved forest floors 14. Preserved wetlands 15. Rain gardens 16. Rain groves 17. Roof top runoff management (captured storm water), including green roofs, cisterns, and rain barrels. 18. Sand filters 19. Stream bank or riparian buffers 20. Tree protection areas (Tree protection areas (TPA) are small habitat preservation areas (HPA) that are set aside as an area around the trunk of a tree to be preserved April 2014 12 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan on a development site. The purpose of the TPA is to protect the critical root zone (CRZ) of the tree and to prevent damage or interference during construction 21. Underground storm water chambers that capture parking lot water 22. Vegetative filters” The City’s master plan provided the legal framework contained in the draft zoning ordinance to modify zoning and subdivision regulations to encourage on-site storage and filtration of stormwater. The City Planning Commission is currently reviewing the public comments and intends to present to the public a revised ordinance in spring of 2014 for comment and approval. SWBNO participated in the development of Article 23 cited above and is an integral member of the new Stormwater Management Team to ensure compliance with the ordinance. SWBNO”s Green Infrastructure Plan shall 1) ensure the projects are engineered designs to comply with detention volumes, 2) include water quality analysis to help evaluate filtration rates and other benefits among the various designs and components; and 3) provide for sustainability and maintenance. 3.0 Program Goal and Objectives The goal of the Green Infrastructure Plan is to explore and include green infrastructure projects for all of New Orleans, and dedicate $500,000 per year, averaged over the next five years, to be subsequently used for green infrastructure projects and activities carried out pursuant to the plan. The projects shall be demonstration projects composed of a single or combination of green infrastructure components from rain gardens to tree planting to bioswales, and complementing these projects that will provide education to the entire community of young and old, private citizens, professionals and commercial vendors. In order to achieve the goal per the principles provided in the guidance documents above, the following objectives must be incorporated in the Plan development and implementation: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 3.1 Identifying and selecting projects that embody the principles of living with water, Implementing projects that comply with green infrastructure design criteria, Developing partnerships to implement a regional approach to green infrastructure, Developing community outreach programs to provide education on green infrastructure practices and include the community in the decision making to ensure sustainable projects, and Inclusion of performance measurements, including monitoring of water quality, to help evaluate the siting and selection of future proposed green infrastructure projects. Identifying and selecting projects that embody the principles of living with water SWBNO intends to select green infrastructure projects that embody the principles of living with water. This includes selection of projects that meet social, economic and environmental criteria or the “triple bottom line” for the City’s and its residents. The Green Infrastructure Performance Matrix - Orleans Parish shown in Figure 5 summarizes the criteria to be considered in locating and designing the green infrastructure components and the anticipated likelihood of success based on other cities’ outcomes. April 2014 13 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan 3.1.1 Social Criteria Green infrastructure projects shall be community assets. They should improve the neighborhoods by providing aesthetic value and recreational benefits beyond the tangible benefits associated with storm water detention or flood mitigation. Community commitment is essential to ensuring long-term maintenance and sustainability. Experience with green infrastructure initiatives in other jurisdictions has demonstrated that success of any effort—whether rain gardens, bioswales, green roofs at the community level, or rain barrel installation at individual residences—is heavily dependent on commitment to long term operation and maintenance of the project. In this regard, SWBNO will strongly support Operation and Maintenance agreements in place before project construction begins. 3.1.2 Economic Criteria Green infrastructure projects shall be cost effective. A cost benefit or cost effectiveness analysis shall be performed on the selected projects to show long term life cycle costs. The analysis includes reviewing costs associated with development, design, construction, monitoring/sampling and maintenance of the project, i.e. “cradle to grave”. April 2014 14 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan 3.1.3 Environmental Criteria Green infrastructure projects shall be on public lands and mitigate areas subject to repetitive urban flooding or subsidence. Sites selected should show that implementing a green infrastructure project will improve water quality through detention (reducing stormwater flows into Lake Ponchartrain or the Mississippi River) and filtration of stormwater pollutants prior to entering the drainage canals or the groundwater table. 3.2 Implementing projects that comply with green infrastructure design criteria SWBNO intends to fund implementation of green infrastructure projects (rain barrels, downspout disconnections, rain gardens, tree canopy, permeable pavement/subsurface storage, green roofs, and bioswales/ bioretention ponds) that meet these basic criteria: • • • • • Comply with the City’s Draft Comprehensive Zoning Code Article 23 to retain at a minimum the first inch of stormwater on site within a 24-hour rain event, Provide opportunities for demonstration of innovative technologies and/or design elements, Readily adaptable to other locations- It’s the intent to have detailed design templates that are flexible enough to be applied in a variety of neighborhood conditions based on various typologies. Moving forward, design professionals, engineers, planners, and developers can utilize the approved design standards and procedures therein to expedite green infrastructure development in New Orleans. Utilization of native trees and plants where applicable, and Inclusion of water quality monitoring/sampling that may be used in the evaluation of other proposed green infrastructure projects. Additionally, technical resources such as those listed below will be utilized as a basis for selecting, implementing and monitoring green infrastructure projects. 3.2.1 Stormwater BMP Guidance Tool: A Stormwater Best Management Practices Guide for Orleans and Jefferson Parishes The Stormwater Best Management Practice Guidance Tool was issued in October 2010 by Bayou Land Resource Conservation and Development Council, Louisiana Public Health Institute and Geosyntec Consultants and funded by the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality, as authorized by Section 604(b) of the Federal Clean Water Act. The guidance document provides a standardized and strategic approach selection and design that applies uniquely to Orleans and Jefferson Parishes. The document provides a comprehensive discussion of constraints (physical, cost, public and regulatory), design standards for green infrastructure components, evaluation methods (hydrology, water quality) and conceptual models. 3.2.2 Greening CSO Plans: Planning and Modeling Green Infrastructure for Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) Control The Greening CSO Plans: Planning and Modeling Green Infrastructure for Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) Control was issued March 2014 by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The guidance document provides help in quantifying green infrastructure contributions to an overall CSO plan utilizing April 2014 15 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan the Storm Water Management Model v. 5.0 (SWMMS). The technical resource also describes how green infrastructure approaches fit into the Federal regulatory framework and highlight opportunities for integrating into municipalities long term control plans. 3.2.3 New Orleans Redevelopment Authority – NORA Green New Orleans Redevelopment Authority-NORA Green is an initiative which included a series of projects and programs designed to promote the beneficial use of vacant NORA property. NORA has constructed a total of five (5) pilot stormwater management lots throughout the City, as shown in Figure 6. Figure 6: Conceptual diagram of a corner street basin, NORA Growing Green is the second iteration of the NORA’s alternative land use program. This program provides individuals, community-based groups, and others with opportunities to utilize vacant NORA property for certain purposes. Small-scale (two contiguous lots or less) greening and/or urban agriculture projects are permitted under Growing Green. The program is open to virtually anyone. The participants are offered leases in one-year increments ($250/year) and may be offered an opportunity to purchase the property at fair market value after three (3) consecutive years of successful participation. Participants who are offered an opportunity to purchase property under Growing Green may be eligible for a discount of up to $5,000 for making additional green improvements to the property. 3.2.4 Other Technical Resources SWBNO has also reviewed the works of several U.S. cities and municipalities, including: • Philadelphia, PA – Green City Clean Waters April 2014 16 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans • • • • • 3.3 Green Infrastructure Plan New York, NY – NYC Green Infrastructure Plan Washington, D.C. – Blue Horizon 2020 Milwaukee, WI – h2o Capture Green Infrastructure Plan Louisville, KY – Sustainability Master Plan Lancaster, PA – Green Infrastructure Plan Developing partnerships to implement a regional approach to green infrastructure Partnerships can provide opportunities for public and private agencies to work collaboratively on implementing green infrastructure projects. The advantages include capitalizing on varied funding sources, sharing of data and knowledge for improved design and implementation, reducing or eliminating barriers to implementation, engaging support in long-term maintenance and operation whilst also providing a united and regional approach to the community. SWNBO has several partnerships in progress. 3.3.1 City of New Orleans Department of Public Works (DPW) In July 1992, SWBNO had entered into a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement (CEA) with DPW to work together on all capital construction projects related to roads, water, sewer and drainage. The CEA was amended in December 2011 to provide for close coordination of all work related to the FEMA-Funded Roads Recovery Program in order to maximize the available federal funding and reduce the impact of construction to the community. The partnership has also allowed us to work closely with DPW to review capital construction projects for potential green infrastructure projects inclusion in areas of repetitive urban flooding. Data is also being shared on the long-term feasibility of components such as permeable paving for the region. 3.3.2 City of New Orleans Department of Parks and Parkways (DPP) SWBNO is entering into a CEA with DPP for funding development and implementation of green infrastructure projects - tree canopies – on public lands. The roles and responsibilities of the two partners are as follows: • SWBNO will participate in the approval of project sites, support development of the conceptual design, review and approve the final plans and specifications, advertise and bid the green infrastructure projects, award and enter into an agreement with the successful contractor and process all invoices for payments. • DPP will provide staff to manage the project, including recommending sites for development, developing of the conceptual design, preparation of final plans and specifications, participation in pre-bid conferences, review of bid tabs and recommendation for award, provide construction management and inspection services, review and approve payment invoices and negotiate change orders from award of contract through final acceptance. • DPP agrees to participate in the planned SWBNO community outreach program, when feasible, and provide support and expertise in development of brochures and website. • DPP is establishing an asset GIS database, and has agreed to share data, when available. April 2014 17 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans 3.3.3 Green Infrastructure Plan New Orleans Redevelopment Authority (NORA) NORA is a catalyst for the revitalization of the City, partnering in strategic developments that celebrate the City’s neighborhoods and honor its traditions. SWBNO is partnering with NORA on several projects including the Pontilly Stormwater Management project and SWBNO Request for Proposals for Green Infrastructure where NORA has offered up their large inventory of vacant lots in New Orleans for potential projects as part of their Growing Green initiative discussed in Section 3.2.3. Pontilly Stormwater Management Project The Pontchartrain Park and Gentilly Woods (Pontilly) neighborhoods were deeply affected by Hurricane Katrina. Water damage to homes was significant and many residents were displaced. In response, Pontilly residents and concerned community members have rallied together to form organizations dedicated to rebuilding the culturally rich neighborhood. Members of the Executive Committee of the Pontilly Neighborhood Association formed the Pontilly Disaster Collaborative (PDC) in 2006 to support homeowners returning to the neighborhood. In 2008, the Pontilly Neighborhood Association approached NORA to help remedy their flooding issues. NORA has received $15 M in FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Funds to implement a community-wide stormwater management plan. The Pontilly Project shall install over 50 green infrastructure best management practices (BMPs) on various sites in the neighborhood including bioswales along streets, street corner bump out basins, and rain gardens on empty lots. The BMPs are designed to filter runoff and improve water quality. The project is part of a cost efficient approach to reduce flooding in the neighborhood as well as creating a more socially, environmentally, and economically beneficial place to live. The NORA Pontilly Project will create a more sustainable community by renovating streets and sidewalks as well as landscaping lots for improved access and walkability. There will be improved access to the commercial corridor which includes a new Wal-Mart to promote economic development and stimulate job growth in the neighborhood. Increasing the number of pedestrians should also have a positive effect on crime prevention in the neighborhood. SWBNO Green Infrastructure Monitoring Project SWBNO had applied for an EPA Urban Waters Small Grant to support NORA’s Pontilly Project. The monitoring project involves the collection, analysis, and communication of data on the effects of green infrastructure installations on the water quality of urban runoff on a site specific level and on the community scale. The project will engage community volunteers (Rain Rangers) to collect important supplemental visual characteristics of the stormwater runoff. SWBNO will maintain and analyze all data to be communicated in annual reports, community workshops, and training sessions. • • • This project will provide analytical water quality data to measure how well community goals of reduced runoff and improved water quality are attained. The project will monitor the efficacy of NORA Hazard Mitigation Project to reduce and treat stormwater runoff. The project will cultivate a knowledgeable and engaged public that takes personal responsibility and advocates for stormwater management. April 2014 18 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans • • Green Infrastructure Plan The monitoring efforts will validate the green infrastructure approach set forth by the community priorities documented in the NORA Pontilly Stormwater Management Project, the Greater New Orleans Urban Water Plan, and the EPA Urban Waters Partnership. The project will engage the underserved community by establishing neighborhood volunteers to visually monitor green infrastructure during rain events. Five (5) sites have been identified in the Pontilly neighborhood to conduct water quality monitoring at fixed sampling stations on a flow stimulated basis. NORA will install the monitoring units as determined by SWBNO. Monitoring of the urban runoff shall be conducted pre-construction to provide a baseline. After the green infrastructure has been constructed, monitoring will continue on these sites for one (1) year. The sampling stations will also be capable of measuring precipitation, flow, and velocity. The hydrologic, hydraulic and water quality data will provide for the characterization of the urban stormwater runoff from the neighborhood and identify changes and trends in the water quality over time. The expected results are that the water quality will improve as the green infrastructure sites are implemented. SWBNO will also assess whether the NORA Pontilly Project’s goals are being met, and what kind of impact green infrastructure projects in general have on water quality in the New Orleans region. Other partners in the monitoring project include the Lake Pontchartrain Basin Foundation (LPBF) and Louisiana Urban Stormwater Coalition (LUSC). LPBF will be responsible for managing sampling activities and meeting protocol and QA/QC requirements. LUSC will be responsible for outreach to communities/residents about urban water quality issues and engaging them in activities and training workshops, documentation, and school programs. NORA, SWBNO, LPBF and LUSC will promote and host public workshops to provide education on stormwater management, green infrastructure and the water quality monitoring activities. Assuming the results will be favorable, the public engagement will encourage individuals to advocate for stormwater management in other New Orleans neighborhoods, as well as empower them to take action to reduce runoff and pollution at their own residences. Newsletters and social media will also be utilized to engage the community. 3.3.4 LPDES MS4 Co-Permittees The Louisiana Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (LPDES) permit for the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4) covers all areas, except agricultural lands, located within the parish boundary of Orleans Parish that are served by regulated MS4s owned or operated by SWBNO, the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (District 2), the City of New Orleans, the Port of New Orleans, the Orleans Levee District, and the 17th Street Canal storm water discharges from Jefferson Parish. The co-permittees are partnered by permit and convene for regular meetings to discuss annual reporting and provide updates on current stormwater management projects. SWBNO has invited the co-permittees to participate as the technical evaluation team to review the proposals submitted following SWBNO Request for Proposal Green Infrastructure Project. 3.3.5 Carrollton-Hollygrove Community Development Corporation (CHCDC) April 2014 19 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan SWBNO has entered into an agreement with the Carrollton-Hollygrove Community Development Corporation to provide use of and maintenance responsibility for three large parcels of the Greenline (former rail bed) owned by the SWBNO, running from Olive Street to Forshey Street and from Eagle Street to Joliet Street. CHCDC worked closely with the Tulane City Center to create plans for the Greenline site, focusing on community use, urban farming, recreational and event space, and most importantly, water management and education. The group has also partnered with Engineers Without Borders and Dana Brown & Associates, Inc., (landscape architects). The group has secured funding from Emerging Philanthropists of New Orleans and the Tulane City Center has secured funding from Surdna Foundation to implement Phase I on the parcel bounded by Monroe, Olive, Eagle, and Forshey Streets. Phase I has been reviewed and approved by the SWBNO and includes trees, planters and pathways incorporating a mixture of turf and pavers. 3.3.6 Horizon Initiative Water Committee The Horizon Initiative Water Committee (HIWC) formed in late 2008 and held its first meeting in early 2009. Every month between 20 and 40 people attend, all in support of the promotion of integrated water management and green infrastructure as drivers of the economic, environmental and cultural future of Louisiana. Inspired by the work of David Waggonner and the Dutch Dialogues, the group maintains a watershed-oriented perspective that seeks balance between development and natural systems. HIWC is made up of diverse experts from business, government, academia and non-profits. Members include architects, engineers, planners, landscape architects, environmental advocates, biologists, attorneys, representatives from the business and non-profit organizations. HIWC provides opportunities for meeting in an open, non-confrontational exchange of ideas and information aimed at transforming Louisiana. SWBNO regularly participate in a local roundtable of urban stormwater and coastal issues. 3.3.7 Louisiana Urban Stormwater Coalition (LUSC) Louisiana Urban Stormwater Coalition (LUSC) is a non-profit organization created to assist parishes, municipalities, neighborhoods, and Small MS4s in meeting the requirements of their stormwater permits. Formed in concert with Region VI EPA Stormwater Office and the Permit Division of LDEQ, LUSC seeks to facilitate the successful meeting of the Urban Stormwater Permit requirements through sharing of information, analysis, and programs among members of the organization. The Coalition promotes collaboration among stormwater managers, educators, engineers, landscape architects, planners, and regulators to develop solutions that maximize return on investment of time, effort, and funds. It also provides small MS4s, who have limited staffs and budgets, access to effective solutions developed by larger municipalities with common problems. This network will foster rapid development, distribution, and acceptance of custom solutions that are applicable to Louisiana. Concern about the rate of development of Urban Stormwater Programs by Small MS4 permit holders in Louisiana has prompted the formation of The Louisiana Urban Stormwater Coalition by representatives of some of the permit holders. Coalition goals are to assist members in the achievement of the Urban Stormwater Programs goals and to facilitate compliance with the permit requirements through sharing information, ideas, and techniques among the members. LUSC will be responsible for outreach to communities/residents about urban water quality issues and engaging them in activities and training workshops, documentation, and school programs. April 2014 20 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan The SWBNO Chief of Environmental Affairs currently serves as a Board Member. 3.3.8 Lake Pontchartrain Basin Foundation (LPBF) The Lake Pontchartrain Basin Foundation (LPBF) is the public’s independent voice and is dedicated to restoring and preserving the water quality, coast, and habitats of the entire Pontchartrain Basin. Since 2001, LPBF’s Water Quality Program has actively monitored water quality in basin waterways and creates on-the-ground programs with partners to address water quality issues. LPBF performs water quality monitoring bi-weekly and for SWBNO. SWBNO provides partial funding to LPBF annually. LPBF samples six stormwater drainage canals for physiochemical and bacteriological parameters 25 times per year. Data is collected by LPBF and regularly shared with SWBNO for analysis. 3.3.9 Orleans Parish Water Quality Task Force (OPWQTF) The Orleans Parish Water Quality Task Force was formed in 2011 by LPBF and SWBNO as an open forum about water quality issues in canals and surrounding water bodies. The task force focuses on specific parameters identified by TMDLs including dissolved oxygen and fecal coliform levels. The group meets monthly and is combined with the MS4 co-permittees. 3.3.10 New Orleans Mosquito, Termite & Rodent Control Board The New Orleans Mosquito, Termite and Rodent Control Board is responsible for the monitoring of mosquito populations and ensuring the prevention of breeding grounds for disease and virustransmitting mosquitoes. Normal floodwater conditions can result in abundant mosquito breeding and West Niles Virus carried by the mosquitoes is a major concern to communities in New Orleans. SWBNO will work with the agency to alleviate community’s concerns by prioritizing all green infrastructure projects that are designed to convey or absorb water in 48 hours or less. 3.3.11 EPA Office of Research and Development SWBNO is working with EPA’s Office of Research and Development to review existing soil information, (Figure 7) and perform additional soil sampling in Orleans Parish. This project is independently contracted by EPA’s Office of Research and Development and is for research only. The results will aid SWBNO in identifying locations in each RMAP basin with higher permeability suitable for the various green infrastructure components. This will increase the chances that pilot installations requested by the SWBNO in the recently issued Request for Proposals-Green Infrastructure will succeed and demonstrate to the communities that green infrastructure is an effective tool for stormwater management. April 2014 21 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan Figure 7: New Orleans East Region Soils, New Orleans Drainage Plan, CDM 3.4 Developing community outreach programs to provide education on green infrastructure practices and include the community in the decision making to ensure sustainable projects Implementation of green infrastructure is not just design and construction of projects but a change in the mindset of the people residing in New Orleans. The philosophy has always been to remove the stormwater as fast as possible from the urban landscape and discharge it into Lake Pontchartrain or the Mississippi River. The abundance of rainfall and the vicinity of the Mississippi River have always ensured water is plentiful thereby deeming conservation and reuse low priorities. Neighborhoods with open canals were considered less desirous than neighborhoods with closed canals (boxed culverts). Standing waters in natural ditches was considered natural breeding grounds for mosquitoes and disease. Currently, with the City rebuilding from the 2005 flood after the levee failures associated with Hurricane Katrina, some members of the community are becoming aware that living with water provides social, economic and environmental benefits. Stormwater can be retained to recharge the groundwater and prevent subsidence. Stormwater can be reused for landscaping and beautification. Stormwater filtered through natural vegetation and soils improves the quality of the water discharged into the lake and river. Stormwater delayed in bioretention ponds can add value to the land. Stormwater management results in long-term cost savings from mitigating the urban flooding, subsidence and stormwater pumping. SWBNO is also considering various approaches to funding for needed repairs of its aging drainage infrastructure throughout the City. Options being studied include accessing a drainage fee on square feet of non-permeable surface. Informing the public prior to seeking approval for a drainage fee provides opportunities for private property owners to retrofit their properties to include green infrastructure practices where they do not already exist. Beneficially sited and designed green infrastructure practices demonstrating positive value to the community could pave the way for favorable perception of an incentive based drainage fee structure. (“The more green you put in to your property the less green ($) you put out for drainage improvements”). April 2014 22 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan Thus, to change the perception of the whole community and provide the public prior knowledge before assessing a future drainage fee, SWBNO shall promote public understanding of green infrastructure and allow the public to participate in decision making as essential elements of responsible and responsive management of our natural resources. Community outreach and education shall be provided as follows: 1. 2. 3. 4. 3.4.1 Targeting education of school age children Targeting residents through community/neighborhood workshops Targeting commercial businesses and professionals Developing brochures and utilize websites and/or social media Targeting education of school age children Green infrastructure and stormwater management education shall be provided to school age children from 1st grade through college. Possible activities include developing age appropriate coursework and teach the teachers through free summer workshops, offering classroom instruction along with hands-on installation and participating in organized after-school events. SWBNO is already scheduled to provide a green infrastructure activity with painting of rain-barrels at the 2014 Girl Scout STEM event and co-sponsoring a community service event with the Young Professionals in the 2014 Water Environment Federation Technical Conference. The latter event consists of attendees at the annual conference volunteering to construct green infrastructure components at a neighborhood park and presenting a workshop to the school nearby. 3.4.2 Targeting residents through community/neighborhood workshops SWBNO intends to hold community workshops throughout the City. The workshops may be dedicated to construction of rain barrels or show how to disconnect down spouts, presentation of green infrastructure projects specifically for the neighborhood for review and discussion, or presentation of green infrastructure practices. As appropriate, representatives from City Departments on Permitting and Safety, Public Works, Parks and Parkways, and the New Orleans Mosquito, Termite and Rodent Control shall be requested to participate. Presenting green infrastructure projects as they are sited for each neighborhood, and prior to final design provides community stakeholders—neighborhood associations, community groups, etc.—the opportunity to have substantive input in the final product affecting their community. Community input and buy-in at the outset will promote a sense of neighborhood investment in these activities (“‘we were involved in their development—they were not imposed on us”); neighborhood post-project maintenance and stewardship (e.g. “adopt a rain garden”) is more likely to be successful when there is a sense of neighborhood ownership of the project. 3.4.3 Targeting commercial businesses and professionals SWBNO intends to present to commercial businesses and professionals through local fairs, festivals and conferences. Events scheduled for 2014 include the New Orleans Earth Day Festival and Green Business Expo, Household Hazardous Waste Day, and the Louisiana Restaurant Food Association Show. 3.4.4 Developing brochures and utilize websites and/or social media April 2014 23 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan SWBNO recognizes the importance of good marketing and branding to promote the positive images of green infrastructure and stormwater management. The goal is to develop brochures, signage, logo, etc. to have a city-wide uniform visual association with the Plan. Figure 8 shows a brochure developed by the SWBNO Environmental Affairs Department on “How to Disconnect Downspouts”. SWBNO is also developing an Environmental Affairs website to promote the work accomplished, including but not limited to the Green Infrastructure Plan. SWBNO has plans to utilize social media including Facebook and Twitter in order to reach a larger audience. These initiatives will further help with monitoring efforts whereby outreach can be quantified by the number of followers for the organization page. And finally as demonstration green infrastructure projects are completed, SWBNO intends to have signage as a form of public education for respective neighborhoods. Figure 8: SWBNO brochure on “How to Disconnect” Downspouts. 3.5 Inclusion of performance measurements, including monitoring of water quality, to help evaluate the siting and selection of future proposed green infrastructure projects. Performance measurements shall be established to help develop information to assist the SWBNO as it continues to implement the Green Infrastructure Plan and help evaluate the selection and siting of future proposed projects under the plan. April 2014 24 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan 1. GIS mapping of green infrastructure projects 2. Monitoring and analysis of water quality 3. Tracking of community workshops/presentations 3.5.1 GIS mapping of green infrastructure projects Green infrastructure projects implemented in New Orleans shall be mapped utilizing the Geographic Information System (GIS). Basic mapping shall provide an assessment of the number and type of projects implemented, the amount of stormwater retained or detained, and if applicable, percentage reduction of pollutants. For each type of project, the database will include, if applicable, project reference identification number, project name, location (address and GPS coordinates), status (development, design, construction, monitoring or maintenance), RMAP Basin, project owner, name of person or group providing long-term maintenance, and cost. The ability to follow the project after construction shall allow for determination of component’s sustainability and suitability to the New Orleans climate. Dependent upon the availability of staff and in partnership with others, an additional goal would be to evaluate the ecosystem service of green infrastructure in the New Orleans by geo-coding the green area as well as gray area, analyzing the ecosystem service of green surfaces, including trees, green roof, and other green surfaces, calculating the effects of future land cover change on the Region’s EPA attainment levels for water quality. Further analysis may be performed to provide the suitability of the green infrastructure approach for each site based on soil, slope, and proximity to buildings as well as depth to ground water. 3.5.2 Monitoring and analysis of water quality Green infrastructure projects, if applicable, generally will include water quality monitoring and analysis to help evaluate the level of benefit to evaluate the proposed siting and design of future green infrastructure projects. Stormwater runoff may contain contaminants such as motor oil, pesticides, automotive fuel, industrial waste, and other chemicals that pollute water bodies. Green infrastructure is a low impact development (LID) practice that reduces water quality degradation of the stormwater. The stormwater is either taken up by the vegetation (evapotranspiration) or filtered naturally through the native plants and soil to recharge the ground water table or discharge into drainage canals. As appropriate, SWBNO will require baseline and post project monitoring to assess total suspended solids (TSS), COD (or BOD) and copper. Other alternatives might include phosphorus and nitrogen. All data will be collected and analyzed using Standard Methods, and all meters will be calibrated and maintained in accordance to manufacturer’s recommendations. Grab samples will be taken for fecal coliform analysis, labeled, cooled with ice, and transported to a LELAP laboratory within six hours. The post project monitoring should be a minimum of one year to provide sufficient data for analysis, identify changes and trends in water quality over time. Sampling stations will be installed in specific green infrastructure projects. The sampling stations will consist of hydrologic and hydraulic monitoring to measure precipitation, flow, and velocity. Flow meters may be installed to determine how much runoff enters the drainage system by utilizing flow meters. By testing the physiochemical parameters of water quality of the green infrastructure installations pre- and April 2014 25 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan post-construction, the data analysis will determine how effective the installations are in naturally filtering out the pollutants through native plants with the custom-designed soil mix, and before the runoff enters the drainage system. 3.5.3 Tracking of community workshops/presentations SWBNO intends to track the workshops and presentations made to ensure that the Green Infrastructure Plan is being delivered throughout the City. Documentations for quarterly reporting shall include as a minimum photographs, copies of sign-in sheets and power point presentations. 4.0 Approach to Implementation SWBNO will partner with several agencies to initiate projects and activities that will achieve the goal and objectives described in Section 3. Soliciting proposals from the community provides solutions to those objectives not yet enacted and serves as a very viable approach to obtaining community acceptance of green infrastructure. The Request for Proposals (RFP) for green infrastructure projects from qualified environmental professionals (individuals or groups (engineers, landscape architects, planners), nonprofit or community organizations) to implement a Green Infrastructure (GI) project was advertised on January 27, 2014. A pre-submittal conference for this project was held on February 13, 2014. Proposals were received on March 28, 2014 and have been distributed for evaluation. The Technical Review Committee is tentatively scheduled to meet in mid-May 2014, and provide their recommendations to the SWBNO Board of Directors in June 2014 for approval to enter into an agreement. Evaluation of the proposals will be as follows: 30% Experience and qualifications of the Proposer (firm and/or project manager) in meeting the minimum background and experience as contained in Section IV. A score of less than 10 shall result in disqualification of the Proposer’s proposal from further consideration. 60% Evaluation of the Proposal in meeting the requirements as contained in Section V including Project Team (use of volunteers is encouraged); Quality of proposal; Proposed Site (adherence to public lands requirement); Monitoring plan; Maintenance Plan; Project Scale and GI Component(s). Proposals will receive favorable consideration for GI Type 1 projects which are: (1) part of a community/neighborhood plan, (2) located in repetitive flood loss areas, (3) innovative in nature. (e.g. including retention of cooling tower effluent in green roof design) (4) a combination of several GI components or Project types into one proposal. 10% Overall evaluation of the proposal. This includes an evaluation of the Proposer’s capability to perform the scope of services. This is to be determined by the selection panel members. No submittal response is required. SWBNO has established the following guidelines in the RFP for developing budgets for the proposal. • • Project budget and any additional funding sources must be specifically detailed with budget not to exceed $100,000 for each submitted proposal. Requested funds may be used for expenses directly related to the proposed project, including wages and consultant fees. April 2014 26 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans • • • • • Green Infrastructure Plan While cost share or match is not required, projects including this component will be reviewed more favorably. Cost share may be in the form of cash or in-kind contributions, but must be clearly explained in the proposal and must be verifiable. Labor requirements including volunteers as in-kind services should be included in the budget (TYPE 1). Materials must be itemized and specified including construction equipment and plant materials (TYPE 1). Include cost of any stormwater monitoring devices and labor for sampling for a minimum one (1) year following substantial completion (TYPE 1). Budget table should be submitted in Excel spreadsheet format similar to table below: Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Project Proposal 2014 Proposer: Title: BUDGET: Item/Task Personnel Description Total Amount In-Kind Total Fringe Benefites Equipment Supplies Contractual Construction Other Indirect Costs Total The RFP for Green Infrastructure, including Addenda 1 and 2 are found in Appendix A. The RFP provided a brief summary on the intent of the RFP, background of the SWBNO and its drainage system, scope of services or types of green infrastructure projects requested, the minimum qualifications of the proposers, the proposal requirements (project type, background and experience of the project leader and partners, description and design, including plan, schedule, operations and management, and project budget), and evaluation criteria. The following provides the three (3) types of proposals being requested and the information required in the submittal. April 2014 27 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan Type 1: Plan, develop, implement and maintain one (1) or more green infrastructure demonstration projects on public land within Orleans Parish. Proposers may submit projects related to rain gardens, bioswales, green roofs, and tree plantings, and are encouraged to combine several components into one overall project. Public land includes SWBNO, NORA, City and/or other public properties (State, or Federal). The project is considered substantially complete when the construction is completed. Final completion of the project is accepted upon performance at a minimum of one year water quality and quantity monitoring and data analysis. Water quality monitoring and sampling prior to, during, and after completion of the green infrastructure project is a key component for all green infrastructure rain garden, bioswale, and green roof projects. All GI projects will be designed to retain, detain, and filter the first one (1) inch of stormwater runoff during each rain event. To ensure sustainability of the green infrastructure project, responsibility for maintenance of the project must be accepted by a designated entity. GI demonstration project directions are as follows: Rain Gardens Objective: Design and build rain garden or series of rain gardens in flood prone areas. o o o o o o Design shallow excavated basin that collects and cleans stormwater runoff on a small scale. Soil layers and plantings designed for infiltration and the removal of pollutants. Determine costs of proposed project. Include matching funds or in-kind services. Build community support for long term sustainability of rain garden. Opportunity to work with NORA, Orleans Parish schools for educational school program. Stormwater planter may also be considered in this category. Bioswales Objective: Strategically locate, design and build bio-retention swales in parking lots, next to streets, or other public land, to naturally filter and absorb surface runoff. o o o Design linear depression in the landscape constructed to slow and filter stormwater with vegetation and soil media. Determine costs of proposed project. Include matching funds or in-kind services. Build community support for long term sustainability of bioswale. Green Roofs Objective: Lessen roof runoff, improve effluent and water quality, and reduce heat gain through evapotranspiration. o o o o o April 2014 Design a roof system of soil media and vegetation that will help to absorb and store stormwater that falls on the roof. Develop criteria for choosing green roof site. Identify public structures suitable for green roofs. Emphasis on water quality improvement is encouraged (e.g. capturing coolant tower effluent). Establish performance measures for type of green roof (e.g. Partial vs. total roof coverage; extensive vs. intensive site development). Load analysis and structural assessment must be completed before design phase. 28 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans o Green Infrastructure Plan Determine costs of proposed project. Include matching funds or in-kind services. Tree Planting Objective: Demonstrate value of tree canopies as a viable BMP to absorb storm water in Orleans Parish o o o Work with City Department of Parks and Parkways, neighborhood associations, and other stakeholders to identify suitable locations for group tree plantings. Identify most suitable trees for optimal stormwater retention, with preference given to native trees. Establish performance measures/evaluation criteria. Plant trees/monitor growth. Project deliverables are as follows: Planning and Development • Cost-Benefit Analysis: A Cost-Benefit Analysis should be performed for all green infrastructure BMP Type 1 projects. • Stormwater retention analysis: (1) Runoff retention calculations shall be made for proposed projects, including a no-build option for the specific sites (pre and post construction). (2) Soil and hydrologic testing must be conducted. All green infrastructure installations should be designed to retain, detain, and filter the first one inch of stormwater runoff during each rain event. • Preliminary Schematic Design: Drawings with site dimensions and proposed catchment area dimensions. Include a context map of proposed site in relation to neighborhood/city. Include features for: (1) water quality and quantity monitoring plan (devices such as flow meters and probes should be considered), (2) signage and/or educational component. • Final design: Pre-construction conference with SWBNO. Final plans should be easily adapted to other locations. • Community Outreach: Facilitate public meetings at a minimum to present and receive comments on preliminary/conceptual design, final designs and neighborhood concerns. Develop brochures or signage that illustrates, educates, and promotes stormwater management through green infrastructure. Implementation • Construction plan that incorporates neighborhood input and participation if feasible. • Construction schedule to show completion of project within 18 months of SWBNO approval of project and Notice to Proceed. • Attend on-the-job field meetings as needed and provide minutes of these meetings to SWBNO. Operations and Maintenance • Water quality and quantity monitoring plan for a minimum one year following substantial completion, including data analysis. • Plan to ensure the project is maintained through the life of green infrastructure. Type 2: Develop a green infrastructure educational curriculum to be implemented in Orleans Parish schools. April 2014 29 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan The curriculum can include (but are not limited to) (a) rain barrel decoration/activities/contests/ and decorated rain barrel sale/auctions (b) partnership with NORA for rain garden/bioswale installation part of a science curriculum. Innovative and reproducible (teach the teacher) programs are recommended. Planning and Development • Deliverables include workbooks, projects, PowerPoint, or other education material on green infrastructure and best management practices that can be easily reproduced and/or updated. • Identify schools and show curriculum agreement to implement green infrastructure program in 2014-1015 school year. • Produce teaching materials to be used at all schools. • Plan and organize curriculum including classes, field trips, and service learning projects. Implementation • Include green infrastructure curriculum activities in weekly classes for the selected schools. Operations and Maintenance • Create a database of participating schools and include completed projects • Discuss lessons learned and propose recommendations for future educational programs. Type 3: Develop green infrastructure workshops curriculum for educating professionals, commercial businesses, homeowners, and neighborhood groups about the rapidly growing green infrastructure field. Planning and Development • Identify neighborhood associations interested in workshops. • Develop materials, brochures, signage, e-newsletters, and social media. Implementation • Hold community workshops (preferably in all council districts) for professionals, commercial businesses, homeowners, and neighborhood groups. • Maintain participant information, sign-in sheets, etc. Operations and Maintenance • Update news and green infrastructure continuing education in e-newsletters, social media, etc. • Identify future participants in outreach workshops. April 2014 30 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan APPENDIX A SEWERAGE AND WATER BOARD OF NEW ORLEANS REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS New Orleans, Louisiana, January 27, 2014 The Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans (SWB) is issuing a request for proposals (RFP) from qualified environmental professionals (individuals or groups (engineers, landscape architects, planners), non-profit or community organizations) to implement a Green Infrastructure (GI) project. The project must be one of the following types, or a combination thereof: Type 1: Plan, develop, implement and maintain one (1) or more GI demonstration projects on public land within Orleans Parish. Type 2: Develop a GI educational curriculum to be implemented in Orleans Parish schools. Type 3: Develop GI workshops curriculum for educating professionals, commercial businesses, homeowners, and neighborhood groups about the rapidly growing GI field. RFP will be available Monday, January 27, 2014 for download at the following website: http://www.swbno.org/business_bidspecifications.asp. There will be an optional Pre-Submittal Conference on Thursday, February 13, 2014 at 10:00 AM in the 2nd floor training room at the SWB Carrollton Water Plant (8800 South Claiborne Avenue). Inquiries and/or Requests for Clarification are due to SWBNO at the office of its Purchasing Agent Mr. Willie Mingo, Jr. on Friday, February 21. 2014. Inquiries may be either in writing or via email to wmingo@swbno.org. All responses will be posted by Friday, February 28, 2014. Proposals will be due Friday, March 14 not later than 11:00 AM to the SWB at the office of its Purchasing Agent, Mr. Willie Mingo, Jr., 625 St. Joseph Street, Room 133, New Orleans, Louisiana 70165. The total estimated available funding for awards under this competitive opportunity is $500,000. Awards will be made in amounts of up to $100,000 per award for an 18 month project period. REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL TABLE OF CONTENTS: I. II. III. IV. V. VI. VII. VIII. IX. I. Summary Background Information Scope of Services Minimum Qualifications Proposal Requirements Pre-Submittal Conference Submission Process Evaluation Criteria Evaluation Process SUMMARY: April 2014 31 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan GI is low impact development practices that can help avoid stormwater quality degradation as well as reduce flooding potential. GI naturally filters stormwater with soil and vegetation to allow surface water with improved quality to be used as a resource and recharge the ground water table. The intent of this RFP is to identify and select five (5) or more grantees to implement these types of GI projects in order to demonstrate to the Orleans Parish community a proactive approach to living with water by incorporating Stormwater Best Management Practices. Project Types: For Type 1 projects, Proposers may submit projects related to rain gardens, bioswales, green roofs, and tree plantings with the caveat that all projects are limited to development on public lands (easements, SWB properties, New Orleans Redevelopment Authority (NORA) blighted properties, State and Federal properties or rights of way, etc.). See appendix for list of available NORA properties. For Type 2 projects, Proposers may submit projects which create and implement a robust educational program for Orleans Parish schools. Program should include curriculum with materials and workbooks, field trips, and hands-on activities such as enviroscapes, rain barrel painting, and rain garden plantings. See appendix for map of several schools with nearby available NORA lots. For Type 3 projects, Proposers may submit projects to develop and implement GI workshops for educating professionals (architects, engineers, home builders and landscapers), commercial businesses (hardware suppliers, concrete contractors), homeowners, and neighborhood groups about GI stormwater practices. Eligible Proposers include qualified professional environmental individuals or groups (engineers, landscape architects, planning), non-profit or community organizations. The development of these projects shall require the Proposer to partner after award with SWB, NORA and/or the City. II. BACKGROUND INFORMATION The SWB was created in 1899 by the Louisiana Legislature to furnish, construct, operate, and maintain a water treatment and distribution system and a sanitary sewerage system for the City of New Orleans. In 1903, SWB merged with the New Orleans Drainage Commission, originally founded seven years earlier, in order to consolidate these various programs into one agency for more efficient operations. SWB is an agency of the State of Louisiana, confirmed by a State Supreme Court decision, charged with the responsibility for constructing, operating, and maintaining the water, sewerage, and drainage systems for the City of New Orleans (i.e. Orleans Parish) and drainage facilities in part of Jefferson Parish. The mission of the SWB is to be recognized as one of the best suppliers of sewage, water, and drainage services in the South Central United States by providing continuous and outstanding cost effective services to our customers while maintaining a reputation for fair and ethical treatment of our welltrained and highly motivated employees. SWB’s Second Modified Consent Decree requires a GI proposal to be submitted to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) by April 24, 2014. Additionally, SWB’s Municipal Separated Storm Sewer System (MS4) discharge permit and the Draft Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance for the City of New Orleans require SWB to implement GI Best Management Practices (BMPs) as part of its stormwater management plan. It is in the best interest of all stakeholders and the City of New Orleans as a whole to improve the water quality in and around the city by reducing the amount of urban stormwater runoff April 2014 32 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan into the Lake Pontchartrain Basin. SWB, co-permittees, interveners, and other stakeholders have identified several GI components that, successfully implemented, can significantly improve water quality and reduce the quantity of storm water runoff entering Lake Pontchartrain. III. SCOPE OF SERVICES Successful Proposers should expect to work closely with SWB representatives throughout the entire process of the project. One or more SWB employees will be included on the project management team. Project should be completed (with all deliverables met) within 18 months of Notice to Proceed. This section is sub-divided by project type, with unique deliverables for each type. TYPE 1 PROJECT – GI project installation The proposed site must be on public land; SWB, NORA, City and/or other public properties (State, or Federal) should be considered (see appendix of approved NORA properties). The project is considered substantially complete when the construction is completed. Final completion of the project is accepted upon performance at a minimum of one year water quality and quantity monitoring and data analysis. Water quality monitoring and sampling prior to, during, and after completion of the GI project is a key component for all GI rain garden, bioswale, and green roof projects. All GI projects should be designed to retain, detain, and filter the first one (1) inch of stormwater runoff during each rain event. To ensure sustainability of the GI project, responsibility for maintenance of the project must be accepted by a designated entity. Components: SWB will evaluate the Proposer based on their ability to meet the scope of services and proposal requirements for one (1) or a combination of the following GI components. (Proposer is encouraged to combine several components into one overall project). The GI installation must be on public land (see attached appendix of pre-approved NORA lots). • Rain Gardens • Objective: Design and build rain garden or series of rain gardens in flood prone areas. o Design shallow excavated basin that collects and cleans stormwater runoff on a small scale. o Soil layers and plantings designed for infiltration and the removal of pollutants. o Determine costs of proposed project. Include matching funds or in-kind services. o Build community support for long term sustainability of rain garden. o Opportunity to work with NORA, Orleans Parish schools for educational school program. o Stormwater planter may also be considered in this category. Bioswales Objective: Strategically locate, design and build bio-retention swales in parking lots, next to streets, or other public land, to naturally filter and absorb surface runoff. April 2014 33 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans o o o • Green Infrastructure Plan Design linear depression in the landscape constructed to slow and filter stormwater with vegetation and soil media. Determine costs of proposed project. Include matching funds or in-kind services. Build community support for long term sustainability of bioswale. Green Roofs Objective: Lessen roof runoff, improve effluent and water quality, and reduce heat gain through evapotranspiration. o Design a roof system of soil media and vegetation that will help to absorb and store stormwater that falls on the roof. o Develop criteria for choosing green roof site. Identify public structures suitable for green roofs. o Emphasis on water quality improvement is encouraged (e.g. capturing coolant tower effluent). o Establish performance measures for type of green roof (e.g. Partial vs. total roof coverage; extensive vs. intensive site development). o Load analysis and structural assessment must be completed before design phase. o Determine costs of proposed project. Include matching funds or in-kind services. • Tree Planting Objective: Demonstrate value of tree canopies as a viable BMP to absorb storm water in Orleans Parish o Work with City of New Orleans, Parks and Parkways, neighborhood associations, and other stakeholders to identify suitable locations for group tree plantings. o Identify most suitable trees for optimal stormwater retention, with preference given to native trees. Establish performance measures/evaluation criteria. o Plant trees/monitor growth. Summary of Deliverables: Planning and Development • Cost-Benefit Analysis: A Cost-Benefit Analysis should be performed for all GI BMP Type 1 projects. Cost-Benefit Analysis - Use one of the available online stormwater calculators. http://epa.gov/nrmrl/wswrd/wq/models/swc/ • Stormwater retention analysis: (1) Runoff retention calculations shall be made for proposed projects, including a no-build option for the specific sites (pre and post construction). (2) Soil and hydrologic testing must be conducted. All GI installations should be designed to retain, detain, and filter the first one inch of stormwater runoff during each rain event. • Preliminary Schematic Design: Drawings with site dimensions and proposed catchment area dimensions. Include a context map of proposed site in relation to neighborhood/city. April 2014 34 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans • • Green Infrastructure Plan Include features for: (1) water quality and quantity monitoring plan (devices such as flow meters and probes should be considered), (2) signage and/or educational component. Final design: Pre-construction conference with SWB. Final plans should be easily adapted to other locations. Community Outreach: Facilitate public meetings at a minimum to present and receive comments on preliminary/conceptual design, final designs and neighborhood concerns. Develop brochures or signage that illustrates, educates, and promotes stormwater management through GI. Implementation • Construction plan that incorporates neighborhood input and participation if feasible. • Construction schedule to show completion of project within [18 months] of SWB approval of project and Notice to Proceed. • Attend on-the-job field meetings as needed and provide minutes of these meetings to SWB. Operations and Maintenance • Water quality and quantity monitoring plan for a minimum one year following substantial completion, including data analysis. • Plan to ensure the project is maintained through the life of GI infrastructure. TYPE 2 PROJECT – Educational Curriculum Promote GI education at each or all levels to demonstrate a proactive approach to living with water. The curriculum may incorporate components of TYPE 1 GI Projects listed above. Objective: Develop a GI educational curriculum to be implemented in Orleans Parish schools for elementary, middle, or high school age students. The curriculum activities can utilize could include (but are not limited to) (a) rain barrel decoration/activities/contests/ and decorated rain barrel sale/auctions (b) partnership with NORA for rain garden/bioswale installation part of a science curriculum. Innovative and reproducible (teach the teacher) programs are recommended. Summary of Deliverables: Planning and Development • Deliverables include workbooks, projects, PowerPoint, or other education material on GI and best management practices that can be easily reproduced and/or updated. • Identify schools and show curriculum agreement to implement GI program in 2014-1015 school year. • Produce teaching materials to be used at all schools. • Plan and organize curriculum including classes, field trips, and service learning projects. Implementation • Include GI curriculum activities in weekly classes for the selected schools. April 2014 35 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan Operations and Maintenance • Create a database of participating schools and include completed projects • Discuss lessons learned and propose recommendations for future educational programs. TYPE 3 PROJECT – Professional Development Develop GI workshops curriculum for educating professionals (architects, engineers, home builders and landscapers), commercial businesses (hardware suppliers, concrete contractors), homeowners, and neighborhood groups about the rapidly growing GI field as well as specific best management practices. Objective: • Develop and facilitate community workshops focusing on downspout disconnections, rain barrel installations, and landscaping to retain and reuse rainwater. Summary of Deliverables: Planning and Development • Identify neighborhood associations interested in workshops. • Develop materials, brochures, signage, e-newsletters, and social media. Implementation • Hold community workshops (preferably in all council districts) for professionals, commercial businesses, homeowners, and neighborhood groups. • Maintain participant information, sign-in sheets, etc. Operations and Maintenance • Update news and GI continuing education in e-newsletters, social media, etc. • Identify future participants in outreach workshops. IV. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS At a minimum, the proposal must include the following information to be considered and comply with the stated submission instructions. Background: SWB wishes to obtain services from highly experienced and qualified professionals (individuals or groups (engineers, landscape architects, planners), non-profit or community organizations). Proposers must be able to start the project with qualified individuals who shall be committed to this work from inception to completion. The Proposer (firm and/or project manager) should demonstrate experience in the following disciplines: • GI Plan Development • GI design of site improvements • Landscape improvements April 2014 36 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans • • Green Infrastructure Plan Scheduling Cost estimating SWB understands that a key to success of any project is the Proposer’s project manager and/or key team member responsible for the management of the project. At a minimum, a resume for the Proposer’s project manager and/or key team member shall be provided. The resume shall be limited to a maximum length of two pages and should be included in this section. Firms, non-profits or community organizations must provide history and background of the organization including documents that provide tax ID numbers and articles of incorporation. Letters of support are encouraged. Experience: A description must be provided of two (2) of the most recent projects/programs/efforts that included GI initiatives, preferably in the metro New Orleans area. The following information shall be included for each completed project: • Project title • Project location • Role of Proposer/team members involved • Project description • Client name • Client contact (address, phone, e-mail) • Year completed • Total design fee and construction cost (if applicable) V. PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS – Content of Application Submission All GI project proposals must include: • Cover Letter addressed to SWB Purchasing Agent • Narrative to include the following: Project Type • Describe the project type (1, 2, or 3) or the combination thereof. Background • As described in the Minimum Qualification above (Section IV). • Proposer name, address, telephone number, and email of contact person(s) • Mission Statement or background proposer. • Relevant experience of the project leader and partners, and include list of relevant projects completed (see Section IV above). • Project partners and their roles, including public entity landowners. April 2014 37 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan Project Description and Design • A Statement of Purpose must be provided for all projects. • Outline the project design and objectives (describe the tasks that will be conducted to meet the project’s objectives). • • • • • • TYPE 1: Description the planned GI components, as well as plans for post-construction monitoring and maintenance. Identification of location of proposed project and reasons for choosing site. Discuss any barriers to siting of the proposed project. Project site must be on public land (see appendix for list and maps of pre-approved NORA lots). Map of proposed site with installation, and context map of site in relation to neighborhood/city. Description of existing site conditions such as location/address, current land use, permeability, and other important site features. Description of how project will be designed to retain, detain, or filter the first one (1) inch of runoff during each rain event. Identification of strategic locations for water quality monitoring and sampling (including flow meters/probes if applicable). • • • TYPE 2: Identify participating schools and grade levels to be targeted. Describe proposed curriculum components. If curriculum includes GI installation, include requirements for TYPE 1. • • TYPE 3: Identify targeted neighborhoods. Identify professional and community groups to be targeted. Plan/Schedule • Proposer shall present, as a part of its proposal, a proposed Milestone Schedule (Gantt chart or similar preferred) for Deliverables (Section III). A final Milestone Schedule will be negotiated with the successful proposers. An eighteen (18) month timeline is expected for projects from the date of notice to proceed to end of construction. • Milestone Schedules should incorporate the following phases: o Planning and development (Pre-Construction) o Implementation (Project Construction) o Operation and Maintenance (Post-Construction Completion) • A community outreach component must be included in the project in all phases. Operations and Management / Expected outcome • A preliminary plan must be submitted for ongoing maintenance of the project (Type 1). • A plan for monitoring methodology and result reporting (Type 1). April 2014 38 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans • • • Green Infrastructure Plan Signage scheme. Include criteria to measure success and effectiveness of the project, including measurable goals, outputs, and expected outcomes. Measure of potential for project to expand and replicate GI technology/curriculum. Budget • Project budget and any additional funding sources must be specifically detailed with budget not to exceed $100,000 for each submitted proposal. • Requested funds may be used for expenses directly related to the proposed project, including wages and consultant fees. • While cost share or match is not required, projects including this component will be reviewed more favorably. Cost share may be in the form of cash or in-kind contributions, but must be clearly explained in the proposal and must be verifiable. • Labor requirements including volunteers as in-kind services should be included in the budget (TYPE 1). • Materials must be itemized and specified including construction equipment and plant materials (TYPE 1). • Include cost of any stormwater monitoring devices and labor for sampling for a minimum one (1) year following substantial completion (TYPE 1). • Budget table should be submitted in Excel spreadsheet format similar to table below: Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Project Proposal 2014 Proposer: Title: BUDGET: Item/Task Personnel Description Total Amount In-Kind Total Fringe Benefites Equipment Supplies Contractual Construction Other Indirect Costs Total April 2014 39 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans VI. Green Infrastructure Plan PRE-SUBMITTAL CONFERENCE A pre-submittal conference for this project will be held at 10:00 o’clock A.M., Thursday, February 13, 2014 in the 2nd floor training room at the Carrollton Water Plant (8800 South Claiborne Avenue). At this meeting staff will discuss the minimum qualifications, proposal requirements, submittal requirements and respond to questions from the attendees. The SWB staff will not be available to respond to individual inquiries regarding this announcement outside of this pre-submittal conference, therefore it is strongly recommended that the interested firms send a representative to the pre-submittal conference. Parking is available at the entrance to the plant, immediately before the guard gate. All visitors to the Carrollton Water Plant are required to check in with the guard in the Engineering Building, exchanging a state issued pictured I.D. for a visitor’s badge. VII. SUBMISSION PROCESS Proposers that meet the requirement of this RFP and are experienced in these areas as described within the RFP are invited to submit an original plus six (6) copies (total of seven) of the Proposal, and one (1) electronic version (CD or flash drive). The one (1) copy marked ORIGINAL shall contain a cover letter with original signature of person(s) authorized to contractually bind the Prospective groups. The cover letter shall also include an affirmation that there is not a conflict of interest of the Proposer and the proposed team in performing work for the Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans or identify any possible conflicts that might impair their ability to perform if awarded the contract, including any familiar or business relationships that the Proposer and the proposed team have with SWB and its employees. The proposal shall be submitted by 11:00 AM, Local Time on Friday, March 14, 2014 to the Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans at the office of its Purchasing Agent, Room 133, 625 St. Joseph Street, New Orleans, Louisiana 70165. Proposals received, in whole or in part, after this date and time will not be considered. A proposal may be rejected if it is conditional or incomplete, deemed non-responsive, or if it contains any alterations of form or other irregularities of any kind. SWB may reject any or all Proposals and may waive any immaterial deviation in a Proposal. The SWB waiver of immaterial defect shall in no way modify the RFP or excuse the prospective group from full compliance with all requirements if selected and engaged. Costs for developing Proposals and participating in the selection process are entirely the responsibility of the prospective group and shall not be charged to the SWB. There is no expressed or implied obligation for the SWB to reimburse prospective group for any expense incurred in preparing proposals or participating in the selection process in response to this request. While the Board strongly encourages firms interested in submitting on this project to comply with the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program a DBE goal of participation of 0% has been established for this contract because of the specialized nature of the work. A list of Sewerage and Water Board certified DBE landscape architects/engineers can be seen at: http://www.swbno.org/business_disadvantagedbusinessprogram.asp. April 2014 40 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans VIII. Green Infrastructure Plan EVALUATION CRITERIA Each Proposal will be evaluated according to the following criteria: Proposals should follow the format outlined in Section V. 30% Experience and qualifications of the Proposer (firm and/or project manager) in meeting the minimum background and experience as contained in Section IV A score of less than 10 shall result in disqualification of the Proposer’s proposal from further consideration. 60% Evaluation of the Proposal in meeting the requirements as contained in Section V including Project Team (use of volunteers is encouraged); Quality of proposal; Proposed Site (adherence to public lands requirement); Monitoring plan; Maintenance Plan; Project Scale and GI Component(s). Proposals will receive favorable consideration for GI Type 1 projects which are: (1) part of a community/neighborhood plan, (2) located in repetitive flood loss areas, (3) innovative in nature. (e.g. including retention of cooling tower effluent in green roof design) (4) a combination of several GI components or Project types into one proposal. 10% Overall evaluation of the proposal. This includes an evaluation of the Proposer’s capability to perform the scope of services. This is to be determined by the selection panel members. No submittal response is required. IX. EVALUATION PROCESS The purpose of the proposal evaluation is two-fold: (1) to assess the responses for compliance with the minimum qualification, content, and format requirements; and (2) to identify the prospective group that has the highest probability of successfully performing the services as described herein. The Proposal must be organized to correspond with all requirements and formats set forth in this RFP. The Proposal should be clear, concise, and must be complete. All information must be contained in the Proposal. No assumptions will be made regarding the intentions of the prospective group in submitting the Proposal. Written proposals must be bound and organized in a manner to facilitate ease of review by evaluators. All sections will be used in the evaluation. A prospective group not providing all requested information may be rejected. All proposals submitted will be evaluated for form and content in accordance with the provisions stated in this RFP. Clarifications may be requested from the prospective group at any phase of the evaluation process for the purpose of clarifying ambiguities in the information presented in the proposal. Proposals and any subsequent presentations should be submitted with the most favorable terms the prospective group can offer. If the SWB is unable to execute Agreements with selected group for any reason, the SWB reserves the right to award an agreement to the next highest scoring responsive and responsible group whose proposal conforms to the requirements of this RFP. April 2014 41 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan Evaluation of the Proposers and their proposals submitting under this announcement will be based upon the information and the evaluation criteria listed above. From the review of the proposals, the SWB technical selection committee shall score and rank all the proposals. SWB shall also have the option to interview the firms; otherwise a recommendation shall be given to the SWB Board of Directors for approval to enter into an agreement with the most qualified Proposer(s). Questions pertaining to the proposal evaluation process or contract issues should be directed to Willie Mingo, Purchasing Department at (504) 585-2124. April 2014 42 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan THE WATER SYSTEMS FOR THE 21ST Sewerage 8. Water Board OF NEW ORLEANS 625 ST. JOSEPH STREET MITCHELL J. LANDRIEU, President NEW ORLEANS. LA 70165 0 504-529-2837 OR szw-A TER WM. RA YMOND MANNING, President Pro-Tom February 1'7, 2014 RE: REQUEST FOR REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL FOR GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS Enclosed herewith is Addendum No.1 issued by Sewerage 8: Water Board of New Orleans for the above mention project on which information will be received by the Purchasing Agent of the Sewerage and Water Board at 625 St. Joseph Street Room 133, New Orleans, Louisiana 70165, up to 4:00 o'clock CST. Please acknowledge the receipt of the Addendum for this project hy attaching a signed copy of the addendum cover letter with the Submittal. Very truly yours . awe/? W7 Willie Mingo PURCHASING AGENT Encl. Addendum Members ofthe Board: MARION BRADY a KANE 0 WM. RA YMOND MANNING 0 MARK M, MOODY - MITCHELL J. LANDRIEU GLEN I FLORENCE W. SCHORNSTETN a CHARLES F. WEBB BEVERLY PHD LOYCE P. WRIGHT 'An Equa! Opportun?y Employef' April 2014 43 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan ADDENDUM NO. 1 Request for Proposal for the Green Infrastructure Projects Proposals to be received 11:00 am. CST on Friday March 14, 2014 The original contract documents for this project are hereby amended as noted below in this Addendum No.1 Receipt of this Addendum shall be acknowledged by attaching a signed copy of the addendum cover letter with your submittal. This addendum consists of one (1) page 3 attachments ADD 1-1 Sign-in sheet from pre?bid conference held on February 13, 2014 (attachment) ADD 1-2 PowerPoint from the pre-bid conference held on February 13, 2014 (attachment) ADD 1-3 Map of vacant NORA lots near schools (attachment) END OF ADDENDUM April 2014 44 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan Facilitator: 15? ?eeting Da /13 /4 PlacelRoom:Carrollton Auditorium April 2014 gm, {a 00 4 'bz/Iegl 6pAr/zs Mac. Vanna ?ay/.quimm gram/I; 94/5? asgarksengalenqineg-i. Maui ?5511*; Eat? M: All!? {or arr/7 2r" mg] Al ?y?wAmI-l: if] 1C3 ED 50?? arm Ham? r10 demoz??k- f?/i?ll ark/447747 jlnAUJr-e w?m? 7am ?ay Wit? 05,4? 355, I mu AliaAaJL CM 40A: $225-49 a C. Kayla? Direct? (mar-file. S?bwrv?@ memoir: any/12ml m1; ?dm? 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Jm'fr Lemnm, Cow. 504-520-1202 @an USWIOOMW- My Page 1 OH April 2014 48 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan Sewerage Water Board of New Orleans SWB Green Infrastructure - Request for Proposals Pre-Submittal Conference February 13. 20M Agenda Sign-in Question Cards Introduction Timeline Project Description Scope of Services Summary of Deliverables Budget Minimum Qualifications Proposal Requirements Selection Criteria Questions a. 4. Sewerage Water Board of New Orieans http://swbn o. org April 2014 49 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Introduction Please sign in and take an index card for questions Third Modi?ed Consent Decree $500,000 5 years $2.5 million was EPA M84 Permit my? 0901? Partners/Co-Permittees my, AL http://s wbno. org ELSE Saw-gm?mmi?dl7 Elia Bid Adver?semenb 8. Spu??ca?onx L1 Ln ml m: constru?bn ?Arnm amrm atoms was: no is rI-cavzmm .4 2mm Iviwcu 1w,? - w. um ume for minucmn; mm? PROJEEIS mm" - nuswan-7w mum rm sum Hal 5 t'EllEl - . Sewerage Water Board of New Orleans April 2014 Green Infrastructure Plan 50 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan Ti mel i ne Date Issued: January 27, 2014 Pre?Proposal Meeting: February 13, 2014, 10:00 AM Inquiries and/or Requests for Clarification Due to SWB: February 21. 2014 SWB Response to Inquiries and/or Requests for Clarification Due: February 28, 2014 Proposals Due: March 14, 2014, 11:00 AM Notice to Proceed: Early Summer Sewerage 8. Water Board of New Orleans hffp?swmo 0"9 Questions/Requests Mr. Willie Mingo, Jr. Purchasing Agent Sewerage Water Board of New Orleans 625 St. Joseph Street Room 133 New Orleans, Louisiana 70165 wmingo@swbno.org I um, Rwy warn Jinn aging: Sewerage 8. Water Board of New Orleans http://swbno. org April 2014 51 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan Project Description The Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans (SWB) is issuing a request for proposals (RFP) from qualified environmental professionals, non-profit, or community organizations to implement a Green Infrastructure (GI) project. "Green infrastructure is an approach that communities can choose to maintain healthy waters, provide multiple environmental benefits and support sustainable infrastructure uses vegetation and soil to manage rainwater where it falls.? (EPA) 5 51:1" Sewerage Water Board of New Orleans http://swbno. org Project Description The project must be one of the following types, or a combination thereof: - Plan, develop, implement and maintain one (1) or more GI Type 1 demonstration projects on public land within Orleans Parish. - Rain Gardens, Bioswales, Green Roofs, Tree Planting 2 - Develop a GI educational curriculum to be implemented in ype Orleans Parish schools. - Develop GI workshops curriculum for educating professionals, commercial businesses, homeowners, and neighborhood groups about the rapidly growing Gl field. Type 3 Sewerage 8. Water Board of New Orleans http://swbno. org April 2014 52 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan Type1 The proposed site must be on public land NORA list or other (subject to lease agreementcombination of several components Community outreach Must have maintenance plan Must propose water quality and water quantity monitoring plan Sewerage Water Board of New Orleans http://swbno, org Type1 EPA Stormwater Calculator: Training Webinar: (?Hui?p NYC Design Standards Sewerage Water Board of New Orleans http://swbno. org April 2014 53 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan Water Quality Monitoring Minimum Parameters Dissolved Oxygen (D.O.) ?Total Suspended Solids (TSS) Fecal Coliform Additional Parameters BOD, COD, CU, Pb, Zn, TP, TKN, N02, N03, TN, Oil and Grease, Pesticides II '63; Sewerage Water Board of New Orleans http://swbno. org Type 2 Educational Curriculum All schools, all grades eligible Preference to incorporating GI components from Type 1 ?Teach the teacher? I?ll? ill! A (lle - I Sewerage Water Board of New Orleans http://swbno. org April 2014 54 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan Type 3 Professional Development Community outreach Adult education Workshops Outreach materials Social media vm? I gag-g1. Sewerage Water Board of New Orieans http://swbno. org Summary of Deliverables *To be submitted by project completion Planning and Implementation Operations and Bevel?, mam - Construction schedule Maintenance - Community Outreach - - co?aemm Amws SWB cuordlnatlon Lymguqnualmqummy - Stormwaler retention analysis - Basellne monitoan minimum" - Desim - Flnu design Planning and Implementation Operations and Development 4014.29? sumo. Mamtenance curriculum to include I Database workbooks. PomrPolnis. . Lesson; wan-mu a'c- - Recommendations School participation - Fluid trips Planning and Implementation Operations and Development . workshops Maintenance Dtvalop materials - Participation - Identifyr target audence - Update news 't Sewerage Water Board of New Orleans April 2014 55 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Minimum Qualifications Environmental/Landscape Background Documented Experience Includes proposed partners sub-contractors ., - Sewerage Water Board of New Orleans http://swbno. org Budget Sewe rage and Wate rBoard of New Orleans Gree I1 Infrastructure Project Proposal 2014 Proposer: Title: BUDGET: Item/Task Description Total Amount lrI-Kind Total Personnel Fringe Benefits-5 Equipment Supplies Contactual Construction Other IndirectCosts Total .5 Sewerage Water Board of New Orleans http://s wbno. org April 2014 Green Infrastructure Plan 56 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Proposal Requirements Cover Letter Narrative - Project Type Background Project Description and Design Plan/Schedule Operations and Management Expected Outcome Budget Letters of Support/Partnership Sewerage 8. Water Board of New Orleans http://swbnoorg Selection Criteria - Experience and - Evaluation ofthe Proposal - Overall evaluation of the - Quality of proposal; proposal - Proposed Site - Evaluation of the . Mon-tom lan Proposer's capability to I I perform the scope of - Maintenance Plan - Project Scale and GI Component(s) - Proposals will receive favorable consideration: - Part of a community/neighborhood plan - Located in repetitive ?ood loss areas - Innovative in nature - Combination of several GI components services - Determined by the selection panel members - No submittal response is required Sewerage Water Board of New Orleans http://swbnoorg April 2014 Green Infrastructure Plan 57 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Timeline Date Issued: January 27, 2014 Pre?Proposal Meeting: February 13, 2014, 10:00 AM Inquiries and/or Requests for Clari?cation Due to SWB: February 21. 2014 SWB Response to Inquiries and/or Requests for Clarification Due: February 28, 2014 Proposals Due: March 14, 2014, 11:00 AM Notice to Proceed: Early Summer 5:13}: Sewerage Water Board of New Orleans hlfP-Y/Sano-OFQ Questions Please submit in writing Now on an index card, or By email to Mr. Willie Mingo: wminqo@swbno.orq Addendum to follow Sewerage 8. Water Board of New Orleans ?ftp-71?5an 0- 01? April 2014 Green Infrastructure Plan 58 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan Sewerage Water Board of New Orleans Serving Our Community, Caring for the Environment Thank You April 2014 59 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan Fm?a H5 Gala Lake?a HS Cavalry 1n: 2 ES Hug-(s amen Msi?l ES we won: Johnna: an": classy-m ES crux Exam W5 Era. Es wot ES I Lune ES nmnes mum 5 ES wnsun E5 Gus. 55 H21th mm am woman as I:l - SCHOOLS 15 Miles April 2014 60 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Vacant NORA Lots Near Derham 63? 0? by age5,;qr? a, 044'; ?v?g?k . 134 :3 (it, "a ?l 0&5 {33? stew 1 r: 13.5 10? a DERHAM ?5 4% 9? A a; ?2255? ?36: <2 5% NORA available inventory Green Infrastructure Plan 'Amiga rip" ?bf? If 11,5? Irma AN ?9 i 3' ?3 5&3; $.31 919? 61.9" ?52; a .595 LE i a a? {a ?92- . 5 246? 1/ 2 3/ 2 014 April 2014 61 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Vacant NORA Lots Near Williams, 5. ES go? 03W404 9-K K5911- C353: 0255? NORA available inventory 5 GALVEZ ST Green Infrastructure Plan '51: 0+ at.? .213c3it (a {9?1 saga25% 06b z33 .2. #151166: cw Kc yo WILLIAMS95%. 63+ 11:171.15 La 0% A: 494' :33506a lax-r $3 1?on x32?- 5} a; 4 33g. '53 ?11? a a {9Mrlea 1/23/2014 April 2014 62 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan Vacant NORA Lots Near Harney e? cat a . ?v at,? be? A. 5% 03as?" Q5 Jim90$? fr" ?rffv 9?0 - 0 a *6 WILLIAMS, 5. 1 v.99 4% 135% 4?1: he 021, $01?73) @3 eggs; 1?9, a 9L r9 11?3" '60 1-, 696:? 595% ?95; 0?waif? 155? GP 9? HARNEY 43; [a if? 6? ix 0?91 3 1 61%? 53Miles NORA available inventtirlrr 1/23/2014 April 2014 63 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Vacant NORA Lots Near Guste Green Infrastructure Plan NORA available inventory 1/23/2014 April 2014 64 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Vacant NORA Near JEICKSOH 0"?9 7b C: Qseo apo re?55 ?34. JACKSON, 650?: ??31 ?99 590 $93? I J. i. 69?? .949" .51 ,d 6? {659? l2;l 5X- 0 PHI-E .9 ?31 M61 ?13) d" 15. 6:13 NORA available inventory Green Infrastructure Plan 4&4 9 ?a q, J. Hp?l C. "x Ga"! ?0 61.? (253 23-990 Erikii!? 9?3? (me 53?- 33- :39 a? we 360?} '36? ?39 ?bur c3155? ?x a a o?c- a" P- 0.1? Miles 1/ 2 3/ 2 0 14 April 2014 65 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan Vacant NORA Lots Near Woodside xi. by." ?5 ~55? ii? ?59 0.9? {in ?3 69?" (jg/c HARHEY 33. ls-won? <5 1 {fax #6 l5. E) m- v33 WGODSON E5 in 9? {?:11 L519 I . 135? 31? E: 15;; 13,4 45-35} r? ?1 Lo. 75: ?can. -.-Ies NORA available inventory 1/23/2014 April 2014 66 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan Vacant NORA Near Tureaud ROMAN ".CLAIBORNE EMT ROBERTSON 3T. 5:3 E21113 VILLEHE ST TUREAUD (:11 2 mums 51' CLAUDE WE VI vs?- . 00" we MC ?42: a C, a Miles NORA available inventory 1/23/2014 April 2014 67 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Vacant NORA Lots Near Frantz RDCHEBMVEST L. 5? 53 Li? Green Infrastructure Plan wags], NJOH NEON 3:3? :5 .2.- 5? 099m: 1w 3r - NORA available inventory 1/23/2014 68 April 2014 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan Vacant NORA Lots Near MLK ST 4 NDMIBORNEAVE NROBERTSONST 553 Mugs - NORA available inventory 1/23/2014 April 2014 69 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan Vacant NORA Lots Near Lake Area HS and Gordon a ?w . "l 1?0 ?mime meql?} 6-0? a .f ?39 ?0 630$ ?9 ROBERT LEE BLVD I GORDON a LII r1 E. 3; pal-lawns 6043 a 111 13 J: 5 LAKEAREAHS ra? 5L, Ramp; DR PR esseu RG RC 9T PHESEBL - rim ,1 1' :3 2 f3 5m nuns 5T 1:57?? mamas ME mama DR Miles NORA available inventory 1f23/2014 April 2014 70 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan Vacant NORA Lots Near Gregory Emma 51 KING PAULA S'r SUMPTER 5 El OWENS BLVD a l3 '5 52 :u I wanna?! DR 35?- a 32 um MANDOUN ST 2 a CHURCHILL on a - HARRISON ME 55"er 5T 4 9% Miles - NORA available inventory 1/23/2014 April 2014 71 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan Vacant NORA Lots Near Gentilly Terrace none are "?fW DHELI ME: T: :2 .. -- ?l 51531 I 5169?] ..- r1 IFI 5: 4375 sauna GENTILLY TERRACE manor ifNORA available inventory 1/23/2014 April 2014 72 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan Vacant NORA Lots Near Osborne 511:? 5 ?Nu ND STAR 51:.35 P. guilt?fr; ?31 6? :0 53? ?539,159 M735 5 OSBORNE J33 all??m F1 E: =5 up,? 6 ??1,535,113? . 51 wig? 1 3.3; 53? '5 a??r?rig: .1: :9 tn it? Vagi?x a 1 a; ?39 4%?pr T1. WORQHS Miles NORA available inventory 1f23/2014 April 2014 73 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan Vacant NORA Lots Near Schaumburg II lIlI NORA available invemory 1/2312014 ApnI2014 74 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan Vacant NORA Lots Near Abramson a :3 a :u .151 =HAMMONDST - I 3 I'll I - 2: Miles - NORA available inventory 1/23/2014 April 2014 75 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan Vacant NORA Lots Near Williams 6? WILL - PREESBUF :1 - a ?3 ADAMS PHENTISS AVE - ?as - NORA available inventory 1/23/2014 April 2014 76 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan Vacant NORA Lots Near Village De L'est mm. id (flip-L Wi Row?? ST HELENA 9.1 ?gnome 3 VILLRQE DE L5 LE 51 Bull] 511*?wa 1n on 19 5139&1 ou??l?eg? A 9. Miles - NORA available inventory 1/23/2014 April 2014 77 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan THE WATER SYSTEMS FOR THE 21ST Sewerage Water Board OF NEW ORLEANS 325 ST. JOSEPH STREET MITCHELL J. LANDRIEU, President NEW ORLEANS, LA 70165 0 504-529-2837 OR 52W-ATER WM. RA YMOND MANNING. President Pro-Tam February 28, 2014 RE: REQUEST FOR REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL FOR GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS Enclosed herewith is Addendunr No.2 issued. by Sewerage ?Water Board of New Orleans for the above mention project on 'which information will be received by the Purchasing Agent of the Sewerage and Water Board at 625 St. Joseph Street Room 133, New Orleans, Louisiana 70165. up to 4:00 o'clock CST. Please acknowledge the receiEt of the Addendum for this Eroject bx attaching a signed copy' of the addendunl cover letter' With the submittal. Very truly yours, Willie Mingo PURCHASING AGENT Encl. (1) Addendum Members of the Board: MARION BRACY a KERRJ KANE 0 WM. RAYMOND MANNING 0 MARK M. MOODY MITCHELL J. LANDRFE GLEN PILIE FLORENCE W. SCHORNSTEIN - CHARLES F. WEBB a PHD - LOYCE P. WRIGHT ?An Equal Opportunity Employer? Ap? 2014 78 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans April 2014 Green Infrastructure Plan February 28, 2014 ADDENDUM NUMBER (2) REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS Proposals to be submitted by 11:00 o?clock AM. Local Time on Friday, March 28, 2014. The original request for proposal for this January 27, 2014 for the proiect are amended as noted in this Addendum Number (2). This Addendum consists of 1 page and one (1) attachment. ITEM NO. ADD 2-1 ADD 2?2 ADD 2-3 ADD 2?4 ADD 2-5 DESCRIPTION Page 1, delete paragraph 4 and replace with new paragraph that reads as foiiows: "Inquiries and/or Requests for Clarification are due to SWBNO at the office of its Purchasing Agent Mr. Willie Mingo, Jr. on Friday, March 7,2014. Inquiries may be either in writing or via email to wmingo@swbno.org. All responses will be posted by Friday, March 14, 2014.? Page 1, paragraph 5, change the submittal date for all proposals from "Friday. March 14, not later than 11:00 to "Friday, March 28, 2014, not Iaterthan 11:00 Page 11, Section Vli. SUBMISSION PROCESS, paragraph 2, replace the date of submittal from ?Friday, March 14, 2014" to "Friday, March 28, 2014.? Responses to inquiries and [or requests for clarification. (7 pages) Receipt of Addenda 1 and 2 shall be acknowledged in the cover letter submitted with your proposal. END OF ADDENDUM #2 79 April 2014 80 SEWERAGE AND WATER BOARD OF NEW ORLEANS REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR THE GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS ADDENDUM NO. 2 No. QUESTION RESPONSE ALL TYPE PROJECTS: Can an organization/?rm be a part of more than one proposal? An organization and/or firm can participate in more than one proposal submission. Would a comprehensive proposal ?three proposals integrated into one big one with three components be eligible? A proposal may contain one, two or all three components as long as the proposal meets the objectives of each of the Project Types (components) as stated in the RFP. ?5 If plans include roll out of a program over multiple years, should this be submitted as well as part of the proposal? The more detail and information provided in understanding the proposal and its part in an overall program would help the reviewers in scoring the project. If a proposal for 100,000 is submitted and if it is not approved in full, is there a possibility you would choose that project still, but only partially fund. The intent and preference is to evaluate each proposal as submitted. However, pending availability of funds and quality of the proposals submitted there is a possibility that a project may be partially funded. Can a group submit multiple proposals or does everything need to be tied into one and fit at $100,000 or less? Multiple proposals can be submitted and each will be reviewed individually. Can an organization lcompany submit 3 different projects up to $100,000 under each project type? Yes, an organizationlcompany can submit as multiple proposals; however SWB intend to distribute the funds fairly among the proposers and across the City. Regarding minimum qualifications: is each team member's resume limited to two pages? Any limit to team size? Each team member's resume is limited to two pages. There is no limit to size of the team. Can educationally obtained, non? Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) led data be shared on-line as a teaching tool? Yes, data may be shared on-line as a teaching tool with 1) SWB approval, 2) a disclaimer that the data does not follow QAPP protocot, and 3) if the SWB website is up and running. Page 1 of 7 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan April 2014 81 SEWERAGE AND WATER BOARD OF NEW ORLEANS REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR THE GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS ADDENDUM NO. 2 No. QUESTION RESPONSE Can groups of individuals apply if we have a fiscal sponsor? Each proposal with a fiscal sponsor shall be evaluated on a case by case basis. Details on the sponsor?s role and responsibility shall be included in the proposal. 10. We don't yet have 501 c3 status, but do have support and guidance from our partner organizations; one of them is willing to act as the ?scal sponsor. Is this kind of arrangement discouraged in any way? Each proposal with a fiscal sponsor shall be evaluated on a case by case basis. Details on the sponsor?s role and responsibility shall be included in the proposal. 11. Is the project likely going to start in June 2014? SWB desires to enter into an agreement with the successful respondents by early summer. However, delays may be encountered in processing the agreement. 12. What is the expected time of the project? Per the RFP, ?An eighteen (18) month timeline is expected for projects from the date of notice to proceed to end of construction.? This is a general guideline only. TYPE 1 PROJECTS: 13. is a project eligible if it is on private land, but has imposed storm water requirements? No. Only publically owned sites are eligible. 14. [Are] watershed connections to other regions [eligible]? No. Only property in Orleans parish is eligible. 15. Are SWB properties also candidates for Type 1 projects? Yes. SWB properties are eligible candidates. 16. Are other GI technologies besides those listed acceptable? Yes. 17. Any pitfalls from previous rain garden projects? SWB does not have any experience with rain gardens, 18. Any soil speci?cations? Page 2 of? SWB does not have any soil specifications for green infrastructure projects to provide to the proposers. Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan April 2014 82 SEWERAGE AND WATER BOARD OF NEW ORLEANS REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR THE GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS ADDENDUM NO. 2 No. QUESTION RESPONSE 19. [Type 1] flood prone areas [favored]? Or are areas that mitigate flooding in flood prone areas [also favored]? Sites in ?ood prone areas or sites that mitigate flood prone areas are encouraged. Geographically diverse locations will also be factored into project evaluation 20. Regarding NORA sites?the list does not include all lots that NORA owns. Why? The list provided with the RFP is limited to NORA sites near schools. All NORA property listed at datanolagov is eligible for consideration if available. 21. Are the NORA properties listed in the RFP preferred? The NORA properties are ?public lands? and provided as an option only for respondents. 22. If we should not contact NORA, how can we ensure the property in question will be available for a lease? Is it limited to the sites already provided? NORA Properties listed in the RFP addendum and on the NORA web site are available for lease as of time of listing. Should a chosen property become unavailable NORA will work with SWB and the respondent to identify alternative sites. 23. In the interest of sustainability, would property owned by a non- profit land conservation [entity], which is held open for public accesslpublic good, qualify as public land? Yes. 24. Does a HANO owned property qualify as public? Yes. 25. Would you consider a storm water management project on private land if 1) an easement is planned. 2) it is leased by a nonpro?t, 3) it is integrated in the local school. 4) it supports all of the other projects by reducing costs (is. by providing plant material). Only publically owned sites are eligible. Option 3, private land integrated in the local school is acceptable as long as it?s part of the Type 2 project. 26. How are you defining the first one inch of rainfall? One inch of rainwater is water one inch deep per surface area. Thus, 1 inch of rain is equal to 5.61 gallons per square yard or 27,150 gallons per acre or 17.37 million gallons per square mile. Page 3 of 7 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan April 2014 83 SEWERAGE AND WATER BOARD OF NEW ORLEANS REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR THE GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS ADDENDUM NO. 2 No. QUESTION RESPONSE 27. How is the watershed area de?ned? Watershed area is based upon drainage basins. SWB encourages the proposers to address speci?c areas with recognized drainage needs rather than dealing with an entire basin. 28. Are projects that retain greater than one inch acceptable? Yes. 29. Does property owned by the Port of New Orleans qualify as public land for the purpose of the Should the land not qualify, could we consider locating green infrastructure along the public right-of way associated with the street frontage of the property bioswales near roadlsidewalks, etc.) Property owned by the Port of New Orleans does not qualify as public property for the purpose of this RFP. SWB currently understands that the ?public? right?of-way on Port of New Orleans property is essentially an easement on private land and would not be considered eligible. 30. Would a project be considered if it was on private land but involved multiple property owners and a nearby school, and a case could be made that the aggregate impact of the project reduces ?ooding in the neighborhood and the burden on public infrastructure? If the footprint of rain gardens involved were protected through easements would that make that project more eligiblelattractive? What about projects that involve a streetscape public rig ht of way)? Public rights of way are eligible, but private property is not. The definition of ?public lands" for public purpose may be reconsidered as proposals are reviewed. SWB is willing to consider each proposal on a case by case basis. 31. If the demonstration projects include another use other than storm water management, such as a public use park, playground, ?tness center), would it be considered? If the project is designed primarily for storm water management, but will have secondary public benefits (such as for recreation), it would be considered for funding. 32. How much does desire to be included in the design process? What about projects that have been designed and funded, but there is a piece missing that is needed to move them forward? SWB intends to be an active partner with all successful respondents. This includes reviewing and providing ?nal approval for all designs that are funded by SWB to ensure in compliance with the goals of the grant and design standards. 33. Are projects eligible if they are already designed, and therefore closer to construction/completion? Yes Page 4 of 7 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan April 2014 84 SEWERAGE AND WATER BOARD OF NEW ORLEANS REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR THE GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS ADDENDUM NO. 2 No. QUESTION RESPONSE 34. There was reference to a map of NORA lots near schools, but it was not attached to the RFP. Are those properties still intended for sale eventually, to be put back into developmentfcommerce? The map has been attached to the RFP. Long term disposition of the property would be defined in the terms of the lease signed between NORA and the grantee. SWB shall not fund projects that are not sustainable by the proposer. 35. is there an expected life of the project? For example 2 to 4 years for the project to exist on a lot. The goal for Type projects is to continue to be sustained by the proposer after the construction and monitoring periods. 36. Can the demonstration projects include contiguous private land if the primary property is public and the project secures an easement to the private land? Projects only on public lands are eligible The definition of "public lands? for public purpose may be reconsidered as proposals are reviewed. SWB is willing to consider each proposal on a case by case basis. 37. if two projects are equal, would one be preferred if in a more flooded area? The purpose of green infrastructure projects is to delay, retain and reuse stormwaters. Thus, the project proposed in or upstream flood prone areas would be given preference. 38. I know the RFP says 18months but then in places it says monitoring for 1 year. Is the total proposal timeline 18 months? Or is it 18 months to design and install and then the monitoring is another year? Monitoring is expected to be completed within the 18 month period of the project. However, this is a general guideline. 39. l'm seeking some clari?cation on ifthe RFP is for leasing the public space or if it also for purchase of the space on which proposed structures may be built. NORA is a partner with the SWB, and in support of this partnership the RFP shall allow for leasing only of NORA lots through the construction for one year. It shall be the responsibility of the proposer to show the ability to lease throughout the maintenance period. Page 5 of 7 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan April 2014 85 SEWERAGE AND WATER BOARD OF NEW ORLEANS REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR THE GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS ADDENDUM NO. 2 NO. QUESTION RESPONSE TYPES 2 AND 3 PROJECTS: 40. For Type 2 projects, is this expected to be an intensive, single school program. a program that moves among schools, or after school? The purpose of Type 2 projects is to educate school age children on storm water best management practices with speci?c emphasis on green infrastructure. SWB is open to entertain all proposals that comply with the objective. 41. ls the intent to have OPSB institute the program in the schools, or is this an elective program? The intent is to have a program available as an educational tool for teachers to utilize. 42. Does an after school program at a community center qualify as a school for Category 2 projects? The community center is owned and managed by HANO. Yes. 43. Do you want design of a project or education plan before awarding the proposal? Awards shall be based upon the information provided in the proposal. Thus, sufficient detail and information shall be provided to describe the project and ensure it shall be successfully implemented. 44. Can part of the plan be program development? Yes. 45. Type 3 proposals are listed as targeting professionals. But the objective refers to installation of rain barrels, a largely single family home strategy. Are Type 3 proposals aimed at promoting storm water detention and rein?ltration techniques for designers, builders and owners of commercial buildings, site landscapes, and parking lots appropriate for this grant opportunity The purpose of Type 3 projects is to educate adults in storm water management and green infrastructure practices. SWB shall entertain all proposals that accomplish this objective. 46. For Type 3 projects, would SWB want input on the public awareness campaign? Yes. SWB shall have final approval on all materials developed. The materials will be part of the SWB campaign and include the SWB logo. Page 6 of 7 Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan April 2014 86 SEWERAGE AND WATER BOARD OF NEW ORLEANS REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR THE GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS ADDENDUM NO. 2 NO. QUESTION RESPONSE 47. Will there be preference for professional development or for homeowner outreach? No. 48. Would there be an opportunity to review the campaign to fine tune details with Yes. SWB will have final approval on all campaign details. 49. What are possible deliverables for Type 2 projects? The successful proposal shall provide a comprehensive plan and indicate what deliverables will be provided to ensure a successful Type 2 project. 50. Is the construction of a GI project a requirement for the Type 2 and Type 3 projects? No. 51. Sales tax exempt status? The SWB sales tax exempt status is non-transferable to grantees. 52. How many hours of actual teaching time are expected in the classroom? For example once a week, once a month, etc. The amount of teaching time required is dependent upon what is being proposed and leaves it to the proposer to recommend. 53. During the pre-bid conference, it was mentioned that SWB wants to have rights to the curriculum. What does that mean exactly? Does the organization still get to use their curriculum? Will SWB be willing to use it in conjunction with or support an organization?s development and promotion of the curriculum with both names attached? All materials developed with public funds will become the property of the SWB for our use and distribution. However, SWB may entertain entering into an agreement with the developer to allow for mutual use, development and promotion of the curriculum with both names attached. 54. At what point in the process should we approach individual schools about their interest and willingness to implement a curriculum? Is that something that needs to be done before we submit a proposal, or only if we are chosen to create the curriculum Page 7 of 7 There is no preference as to when school(s) are approached. Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans Green Infrastructure Plan