SMART GROWTH
IMPLEMENTATION

ASSISTANCE

1ARTIN PENA, SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO

United States
Environmental Protection
Agency

May 2017

ia.gov/smartgrowth


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SMART GROWTH
IMPLEMENTATION ASSISTANCE

Many communities want to foster economic growth, protect environmental resources, enhance public health,
and plan for development, but might lack the tools, resources, and information to achieve their goals. In
response to this demand, EPA developed the Smart Growth Implementation Assistance (SGIA) Program in 2005.

Th e SGIA program started with annual, competitive solicitations open to state, local, regional, and tribal
governments (and nonprofi ts that partnered with a governmental entity) that wanted to incorporate smart
growth techniques into their future development. Beginning in 2015, EPA is working with regional staff to
identify and select communities rather than issue a Request for Letters of Interest.

Once selected, communities receive direct technical assistance from a team of national experts in one of two
areas: policy analysis (e.g., reviewing state and local codes, school siting guidelines, transportation policies,
etc.) or public participatory processes (e.g., visioning, design workshops, alternative analysis, build-out analysis,
etc.). The assistance is tailored to the community's individual situation and priorities.

EPA provides the assistance through a contractor team, not a grant. Through a multiple-day site visit and a
detailed fin al report, the multidisciplinary teams provide options the community can consider implementing to
achieve its goal of encouraging growth that fosters economic progress and environmental protection.

EPA's goals for the SGIA program include:

•	Supporting communities interested in implementing smart growth policies.

•	Creating regional examples of smart growth that can catalyze similar projects in the area.

•	Identifying common barriers and opportunities for smart growth development.

•	Creating tools other communities can use.

More information is available at https://www.epa.gov/smartgrowth/smart-growth-implementation-assistance


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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

U.S. ENVIRONMENTAL
PROTECTION AGENCY

Jason Bernagros, Office of Research and Development
Evelyn Huertas, Region 2 San Juan Bay Estuary Program
Kara Pennino, Office of Sustainable Communities
Amelia Funk, Region 2 Office of Strategic Programs

ENLACE PROJECT TEAM

Lyvia N. Rodriguez del Valle, Executive Director
Estrella Santiago Perez, Environmental Affairs Manager Carlos
Clausell, Coordinator Urbanism & Infrastructure Carlos Muhiz-
Perez, Affairs Manager Urbanism & Infrastructure Fabiola
Robles Juarbe, AmeriCorps VISTA, Environmental Affairs

With special appreciation to Estudiantes Dispuestos a la Restauracion
Ambiental del Cano Martin Pena (EDRA). As well as Grupo de las
Ocho Comunidades del Cano Martin Pena, G-8 Inc. for coordinating
community meetings, Junta de Residentes de Buena Vista Santurce,
Inc. for providing the community center and to the Centro
Communitario Buena Vista Santurce for the use of their facilities
during the EPA workshop.

DESIGN TEAM

Spackman Mossop Michaels

Wes Michaels, Principal
Emily Bullock, Associate
Katie Boutte, Designer
Jane Saterlee, Designer
Matty Williams, Designer

Tamara Orozco

Shaney Pena Gomez

Francisco Rodriguez-Ema


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TABLE OF CONTENTS

1	EXECUTIVE SUMMARY	06

2	INTRODUCTION	09

3	DESIGN WORKSHOP (COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT)	13
U	EXISTING CONDITIONS	15

5	DESIGN OPTIONS	25

Site 1: Albert Einstein High School and Haydee
Rexach Elementary School

Site 2: San Antonio Asis Plaza

Sites 3 and k\ Residential Urban Plaza Buena Vista
Santurce and Buena Vista Santurce Water Plaza

Site 5: Paseo Buena Vista Santurce

Site 6: Israel-Bitumul Gateway Water Plaza

6 NEXT STEPS (IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES]

54


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BARRIO OBRERO

SAN CI PR! AN

BUEN A_V ISTA
SANTURC

PROJECT SITES ANDJHEEXISTING
COMMUNITY CONDITIONS

ilSRAEL^BITUMUL*

CANO MARTIN PENA

FIGURE 1 Illustrating project sites and the existing community conditions.

O ALBERT EINSTEIN HIGH SCHOOL
AND HAYDEE REXACH ELEMENTARY

Q SAN ANTONIO ASIS PLAZA

O RESIDENTIAL URBAN PLAZA
BUENA VISTA SANTURCE

o BUENA VISTA SANTURCE
WATER PLAZA

Q PASEO BUENA VISTA
SANTURCE

O ISRAEL-BITUMUL GATEWAY
WATER PLAZA

05


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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The Cano Martin Pena (CMP) is a 3.75-mile long tidal channel located
within the San Juan Bay Estuary (SJBE) system in Puerto Rico, the only
tropical estuary in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's National
Estuary Program. The CMP is one of 19 locations that are part of the EPA's
Urban Waters Federal Partnership.

The eastern portion of the CMP, historically between 200 and 400 feet wide,
is currently obstructed by sediment, debris and solid waste, blocking the
hydraulic flow between the San Jose Lagoon and San Juan Bay. The eight
communities surrounding the CMP - which make up the Special Planning
District of the Cano Martin Pena - have a history of poverty, overcrowding,
unsafe living conditions, exposure to significant environmental and health
dangers, lack of essential infrastructure, marginalization, and social
invisibility, despite its location adjacent to the financial district of San Juan.

Several of these communities, including Buena Vista Santurce, developed
as informal settlements during the beginning of the 20th century. As a
consequence, the District lacks adequate infrastructure, including the
absence of sanitary sewer systems, inadequate storm drainage systems,
narrow streets, few public spaces and few opportunities for recreational
water activities. The obstruction of the CMP results in frequent flooding
with untreated stormwater and sanitation, affecting large areas of the
District. During every rain event, schools, homes, streets and businesses
suffer from flooding, exposing residents to pollutants. In 2002, 39% of
households reported at least one incident of flooding with contaminated
water during the previous year. The number increased to 70% in 2012. In
2000, over 3,000 structures in the District and in the Cantera Peninsula
lacked a sanitary sewer system and therefore discharged waste without
treatment directly into the CMP through the storm drainage system. As a
result of this, the CMP has reported fecal coliform counts 60 times higher
than the EPA water quality standards.

The Corporation del Proyecto ENLACE del Cano Martin Pena (ENLACE)
emerged as a solution to the problems of environmental degradation
of the CMP, and as an innovative initiative of environmental justice and
social transformation to restore the CMP. ENLACE promotes inclusive,
livable and resilient communities through community participation and

the creation of partnerships in the public and private sectors. The eight
communities surrounding the CMP, organized and represented by the
Grupo de las Ocho Comunidades Aledanas al Cano Martin Pena, Inc. (G-
8), the Fideicomiso de la Tierra del Cano Martin Pena (Fideicomiso) and
ENLACE implement the Comprehensive Development and Land Use Plan
for the Special Planning District of the Cano Martin Pena (CMP District
Plan).

Approved in 2006, the CMP District Plan addresses environmental, social,
economic, housing, and urban issues that promote smart growth and
increased resiliency for the eight communities within the CMP Special
Planning District: Barrio Obrero Oeste, Barrio Obrero San Ciprian, Barrio
Obrero Marina, Buena Vista Santurce, Parada 27, Las Monjas, Buena Vista
Hato Rey, and Israel-Bitumul. The CMP District Plan includes substantial
sanitary and storm drainage infrastructure improvements, dredging of
the channel to improve the flow between the San Jose Lagoon and the
San Juan Bay, rehabilitation of existing housing and construction of new
housing, economic development through job creation and tourism, and
the relocation of families impacted by these projects.

ENLACE applied for and received assistance from the U.S. Environmental
Protection (EPA) Agency's Smart Growth Implementation Assistance
(SGIA) program to help advance the design of much-needed public
open spaces identified within the CMP District Plan. EPA funded a
design team to collaborate with ENLACE, Fideicomiso and the G-8 in the
development of conceptual design options for six sites in the in the Buena
Vista Santurce and Israel-Bitumul neighborhoods. Each site is intended
to represent a type of open space like a park, water plaza or trail that can
be located throughout the CMP district. The options show how green
infrastructure—design elements that mimic nature by slowing and filtering
stormwater before it reaches either the conventional storm drainage
system or a natural body of water—can be used to mitigate flooding by
working in tandem with the proposed improvements to the conventional
drainage infrastructure system. Additionally, some design options also
include elements that improve walking and biking (often referred to as
"complete streets" elements) that can better connect the parks and plazas
and encourage residents and visitors to explore the CMP. This EPA design

06


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assistance is intended to complement the ongoing infrastructure and open
space projects included in the CMP District Plan.

ENLACE's key partners in this endeavor are:

+ G-8: A non-profit organization that brings together the community
leadership of the eight communities adjacent to the CMP The G-8
is the entity that unites community-based, civic and recreational
organizations in each of the communities. The main purpose is to
guarantee the permanence of these communities and ensure the
democratic participation of residents in the decision-making processes
regarding the implementation of the CMP District Plan.

Fideicomiso: A novel collective land tenure mechanism that addresses
the historical problem of lack of ownership, avoids involuntary
community displacement as a result of market forces, guarantees
affordable housing, allows income to be reinvested in the area, thereby,
overcoming poverty.

07


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mmk

SAN JUAN

Mam

^ COROZOS
LAGOON

PROJECT AREA

SAN JOSE
LAGOON

CANO DE SAN ANTONIO

ATLANTIC OCEAN

FIGURE 2 Illustrating the project area in relation to a larger context.

08


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2

INTRODUCTION

BARRIO OBRERO
SAN CIPRIAN

BARRIO OBRERO
MARINA

BUENA VISTA
SANTURCE

BUENA VISTA
HATO REY

ISRAEL-BITUMUL

PROJECT SITES

LAS MONJAS

ALBERT EINSTEIN HIGH SCHOOL AND
HAYDEE REXACH ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

SAN ANTONIO ASl'S PLAZA

RESIDENTIAL URBAN PLAZA BUENA
VISTA SANTURCE

4	BUENA VISTA SANTURCE WATER PLAZA

5	PASEO DEL CANO NORTE

6	ISRAEL-BITUMUL GATEWAY WATER PLAZA

7	MANGROVE RESTORATION/ CANO MARTIN PENA
ECOSYSTEM RESTORATION PROJECT AREA

FIGURE 3 A diagram illustrating the scope of work of the project.

2

3

09


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Th e Cano Martin Pena (CMP) is a 3.75-mile long tidal channel located
within the San Juan Bay Estuary (SJBE) system in Puerto Rico, the only
tropical estuary in the EPA's National Estuary Program. Th e SJBE is home to
important natural, commercial, and tourist resources such as the main
seaport, airports, hotels, centuries-old communities, and urban centers. The
CMP is an important hydrological link that connects the San Jose Lagoon
with the San Juan Bay. During the early part of the 20th century, rural
families relocated to the city in search of jobs. Due to a lack of housing,
informal settlements were built in the mangrove wetland areas bordering
the channel using refuse and debris as fill material. Housing was developed
without the construction of basic utilities, and large segments of these
communities are still not connected to the sanitary sewer system, with
households discharging their untreated sewage directly into CMP or to the
stormwater drainage system. As a result, the functioning of the CMP has
been significantly affected by the great amount of solid waste, sediment and
fill material present in the channel today.

Historically, the channel was between 200 and 400 feet wide but has
been reduced to 3 feet wide at some points and has a current depth of
between 3.94 feet to 0 feet. According to the Final Feasibility Report for
the CMP Ecosystem Restoration Project (CMP-ERP) prepared by ENLACE
and approved in 2016 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), the
sedimentation rates within the eastern CMP are nearly twice as high as in
other parts of the estuary due to urbanization and extremely limited water
flow1. Sediments include a combination of debris, household refuse, and
other waste. Habitat degradation has in turn decreased the ability for the
channel to properly manage stormwater and a reduction in ecosystem
functions and values, including losses of economic and recreation
opportunities.

Due to the channel's lack of conveyance to manage stormwater, the
communities bordering the CMP frequently suffer from flooding events, not
only under major rainfall (e.g., 25, 50 or 100-year storm events),
but from minor and more frequent rainfall (e.g., 2-10 year storm
events). Over half of families along the CMP report flooding in their homes,
streets, or schools, and are frequently exposed to polluted water, which
causes increased rates of gastrointestinal, skin, and respiratory ailments2.
The communities bordering the CMP have a long history of

10

poverty, overcrowding, unsafe living conditions, exposure to significant
environmental and health hazards, marginalization, blight, social
invisibility, and governmental neglect. According to the American
Community Survey, approximately 64.6% of the households in these
communities live under the poverty level, while 55% of the households
had an income equal or less than $10,000 per year3.

ENLACE, a non-federal co-sponsor, and USACE, the lead agency, are
working on the implementation of the CMP-ERP, which seeks to re-
establish the tidal connection between the San Jose Lagoon and the San
Juan Bay by dredging and channeling the CMP. The CMP-ERP project is
estimated to cost $215 million, 65% of which will be provided by federal
funding, and 35% which the government of Puerto Rico through ENLACE
must provide as part of its local cost share. ENLACE will provide the local
cost share through a combination of cash contributions, in-kind services
and the land, easements, rights of way, relocations, and disposal/borrow
areas (LERRD) required for construction, operation, and maintenance of
the project. TheCMP -ERP project will return the channel to 100 feet wide
and 10 feet deep and includes the restoration of 34.4 acres of mangrove
forest. Additionally, the project budget includes funding for public open
space and recreational components within the limits of the federal project.

ENLACE is a public corporation created under Act No. 489 on September
24, 2004 whose mission is to oversee and implement the CMP District
Plan in coordination with the G-8 and Fideicomiso. Th e CMP District
Plan includes substantial sanitary and storm drainage infrastructure
improvements; dredging of the channel to improve the fl ow between the
San Jose Lagoon and the San Juan Bay; rehabilitation of existing housing
and construction of new housing, economic development through job
creation and tourism; and the relocation of families impacted by these
projects. ENLACE's key partners in this endeavor are the G-8 (leadership
representing the eight communities) and Fideicomiso (community land
trust).

In 2016, ENLACE requested technical assistance from the EPA through
the Smart Growth Implementation Assistance (SGIA) program to support
the design of the recreational and open space components from the CMP
District Plan. EPA funded a design team to assess flood prone areas of the


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CMP and to collaborate with community stakeholders, ENLACE, and
residents to develop design options that create much-needed open spaces
that integrate green infrastructure and complete streets practices. Green
infrastructure is a cost-effective approach to improving and increasing the
capacity of conventional drainage infrastructure systems that also
provides multiple community benefits.T hese strategies are designed to
mimic nature by slowing and filtering stormwater before it reaches either
the traditional storm drainage system or a natural body of water.

The design options are intended to address stormwater management and
flooding problems in tandem with the proposed improvements to the
CMP's traditional drainage infrastructure system and ecosystem
restoration project while also providing parks and plazas, and making the
neighborhoods in the CMP more walkable and bikeable. Additionally,
the design options utilize the principles of complete streets to encourage
pedestrians and bicyclists to explore the land surrounding the CMP and
make physical connections between the various open spaces easier. The
term "green and complete streets" is used for streets that combine both
green infrastructure and complete streets elements.

EPA collaborated with ENLACE and the community to develop design
options for six interconnected sites in the Buena Vista Santurce and Israel -
Bitumul neighborhoods—each representative of the type of open space (a
park, plaza, or trail) that can be located throughout the CMP district.

Three of the project sites are located directly alongside the CMP and
include open space for recreational activities and access directly to the
water. The other three sites are connected to the CMP and each other by
green and complete streets. They include:

1	Final Feasibility Report Delivery Package, ENLACE and U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers. February 2016.

2	Health Impact Assessments for Environmental Restoration: The Case of Cano Martin
Pena. Annals of Global Health, vol. 80, no. 4, July 2014.

+ Site 1: Albert Einstein High School and Haydee Rexach Elementary
School. Thedesignoptionsfo r this site illustrate how typical green
spaces or parks defi ned and identifi ed in the CMP District Plan can
incorporate green infrastructure and educational elements.

+ Site 2: San Antonio Asis Plaza. Design options for this site illustrate
the creation of a community campus, connecting the adjacent school,
church, and community center and establishing programmatic
elements that serve the needs of these organizations.

+ Site 3: Residential Urban Plaza Buena Vista Santurce. Design options
for Sites 2 and 3 illustrate two variations on how green infrastructure can
be incorporated into a typical residential plaza. Th ese design options
can be integrated within the existing neighborhood framework.

+ Site 4: Buena Vista Santurce Water Plaza. Design options for this site
illustrate how water plazas may be incorporated into vacant land areas
and pedestrian trails.

+ Site 5: Paseo del Cano Norte. Design options for this site illustrate
improvements to the pedestrian and bicycling experience in this area.
Th is design builds upon the existing conceptual design of the Paseo
del Cano Norte, linking proposed water plazas and open spaces and
existing housing.

+ Site 6: Israel - Bitumul Gateway Water Plaza. Design options for this
site illustrate how a water plaza can be designed as an entryway into
the CMP project area, welcoming visitors to the area and promoting
ecotourism.

The design options, in conjunction with the improvements to the
sanitary sewer and dredging of the channel, will help manage the
rainwater from a 25-year storm. They will provide needed recreation
space for the community that will better connect neighborhoods with
each other and the CMP, and increase access for visitors.

3 Statistics for the Cano Martin Pena from the American Community Survey,
2006-2010.

11


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INTRODUCTION

RELEVANT REPORTS

The design team's efforts were built on the foundation provided by previous
planning and engineering studies provided by ENLACE. Hie primary
studies used in the preparation of the design proposals were the following:

Comprehensive Development Plan for the
Special Planning District of the Cano Martin
Pena, 2004

Feasibility Report & Environmental Impact
Statement for the Cano Martin Pena
Ecosystem Restoration Project, 2016

Planning Report for the Stormwater
Collection System Conceptual Design for
Buena Vista Santurce Community, 2016

I'LAK m IJtStHROI.lO IVTTGRM V I'SOS [)Et. I fRKKMol

im D^TIITU 111 Pn,Mtw m H'kS E-WCMl Oil

DfWT

FeaSfbility Report
& Environmental
Impact Statement

SEPTEMBER 20IS

12


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COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

The design team conducted a workshop to explore design opportunities with the students
ofEstudiantes Dispuestos a la Restauracion Ambientaldel Cano Martin Pena.

WORKSHOP DESCRIPTION

From March 8 to 10 of 2017, a three-day workshop was held with various
sectors of the CMP Martin Pena community to identify the needs and
aspirations of residents and stakeholders with respect to the design of
public spaces. With the support of ENLACE in the coordination of the
workshop, the activities were carried out at ENLACE's office, the Albert
Einstein High School and the Buena Vista Santurce Community Center,
which allowed the project to reach a diverse group of participants.
A session with government agency representatives, engineers, local
technical and non-profit program leaders focused on discussing the
technical aspects of integrating green infrastructure into local public
policy. Hie session also explored the logistics of implementing the
CMP District Plan, the CMP-ERP Project, and began the process of
identifying potential funding sources. Other sessions with community
leaders, students participating in ENLACE's environmental awareness
programs, and community residents focused on identifying public space
uses and programs, on including green infrastructure applications to
improve water quality and reduce flooding in their communities, and on
connectivity and transportation issues between communities and the
immediate urban context.

Many design options were presented during an open community meeting, where the
public was invited to speak and contribute to the final design options.

13


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THE DESIGN PROCESS

s>i^

9r\w

-> Sti*

INITIAL
DESIGNS

COMMUNITY
FEEDBACK AND
REVISIONS

CHARRETTE AND
STAKEHOLDER
MEETINGS

COMMUNITY
FEEDBACK AND
REVISIONS

FINAL
PRESENTATION

COMMUNITY
FEEDBACK AND
REVISIONS

FINAL REPORT

WORKSHOP DESCRIPTION

Participants were particularly interested in the following:

+ Build off the plans and projects already developed
through an inclusive participatory process, as a
starting point for the further development of suitable
complementary proposals.

+ Restore the estuary ecosystem through the use of
innovative technologies that improve the quality of
stormwater runoff flowing into the CMP.

+ Involve the community in the planning, implementation,
and maintenance of public spaces to ensure their
sustainability.

+ Promote community economic development.

+ Improve health and quality of life by providing safe and
accessible public spaces for residents and visitors.

+ Identify pilot projects that are feasible to implement in
the short term.

+ Design flexible spaces that can incorporate a diversity
of programs for a variety of populations, but at
the same time reflect and strengthen the identity of
the community.

+ Connect proposed projects with existing urban assets
through multimodal transportation proposals.

+ Use public space as an educational tool for
environmental issues.

u


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KEXISTING CONDITIONS

An aerial image of developments encroaching the CMP. This ultimately narrowed the
width of the CMP and decreased mangroves along its buffer zone.

Reference:

Planning Report for the Stormwater Collection System Conceptual Design
for Buena Vista Santurce Community, 2016.

Due to the physical changes of the CMP, surrounding communities are now faced with
higher and frequent inundation.

Reference:

Building and Social Housing Foundation, https://www.bshf.org/world-habitat-
awards/winners-and-finalists/cano-martin-pena-commimity-land-trust/

THE BUENA VISTA SANTURCE COMMUNITY

Hie community of Buena Vista Santurce borders the CMP to the south,
Haydee Rexach Avenue to the north, the Barrio Obrero Marina community
to the west, and Avenue Barbosa—a main artery of the city—to the east. It
is a predominantly residential community mixed with commercial activity,
including grocery stores, coffee shops, bars, barber shops, and beauty
salons, in the interior of the community and towards Rexach Avenue.

Many of the buildings have been elevated as an adaptive measure to
avoid the flooding of the area while others have been abandoned. Narrow
streets with no sidewalks create an undefined space for pedestrians,

vehicles, and cyclists. The neighborhood lacks safe and accessible public
and recreational spaces. The little existing vegetation is limited mainly to
the edge of the CMP. Like most G-8 communities, Buena Vis ta Santurce
has access to power and street lighting through a disorganized aerial
network. Also, it is mainly flatland with elevations slightly above sea
level. It has a poor stormwater drainage system and lacks a sanitary sewer
system, exposing its residents to sewage-polluted waters and bacterial
contamination during the frequent flood events that occur in the area.

15


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between

UENA VIST J
SANTURCE

16

1	ALBERT EINSTEIN HIGH
SCHOOL AND HAYDEE REXACH
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

2	SAN ANTONIO ASIS PLAZA

3	RESIDENTIAL URBAN PLAZA
BUENA VISTA SANTURCE

4	BUENA VISTA SANTURCE
WATER PLAZA

5	PASEO DEL CANO NORTE

6	ISRAEL-BITUMUL GATEWAY
WATER PLAZA

Stomwater Runoff
Groundwater Overflow

Stormwater runoff from Barrio
Obrero San Cipridnflow to Buena
Vista Santurce. Water from Buena
Vista Santurce flows to the CMP,
the river floods, and it's pushed
back into the Buena Vista Santurce
community.

References;

Planning Report for the Stormwater
Collection System Conceptual Design for
Buena Vista Santurce Community, 2016.
Conceptual Design Stormwater Collection
System- Buena Vista Santurce Community.
Watershed


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n EXISTING CONDITIONS

FLOOD ANALYSIS

73% OF SITE 1 IS WITHIN THE 100 YEAR FLOODPLAIN;
SITES 2,3*4,5 AND 6 ARE 100% WITHIN THE FLOODPLAIN

r		• - „

i

1	BARRIO OBRERO

I	OESTE

I
I

p - -



BARRIO OBRERO

oooToo •*> .t SAN CIPRIAN	f \

^BARRIO OBRERO . *»•«,

	-A MARINA	\

\\ I	\

s. I	BUENA VISTA - «.„ \

«\	SANTURCE " " A

\\	4

PARADA 27 \\ // j	./
N'— /

u

I
i

L>4S MONJAS

S\

BUENA VISTA	X

HATO REY	/ S

/

/

/

	<'

\

\

v

N

V



I -'-i.

ISRAEL-BITUMUL

\

\

SAN JOSE
LAGOON



i

%

FIGURE 5 Illustrating areas of the 100 yearflood zones.

Reference:

CMA- UNIPRO, 2002. Hydrological Study

17


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Flood level is
less than 3'
above Ground

Site Locations

Flood level is
more than 6'
above Ground

The project sites lie within major flood zones.
During a category 1 storm, the project sites
could experience up to 3 feet of water, and
during a category 5 storm hurricane, project-
sites could be inundated with up to 6 feet of
water.

Reference:

NOAA. http://noaa.rnaps.arcgis. com

Flood level is
more than 3'
above Ground

Flood level is
less than 3'
above Ground

Site Locations

18

I	^

Lw >

I

| PARADA 27
\

r

i
i

BARRIO

1

/ BARRIO OBRERO
SAN CIPRIAN

arrioobreZo"*^	*ANC,PR,AN	t

t MARINA |	**•«*,	*

\ .	\

¦	BUENA vista ^

,	SANTURCE	4

i	.	-—•

LAS MO NJ AS

BUENA VISTA
NATO REY

%/
/

- - v

ISRAEL-BITUMUL

N	;t ii:»j *«¦»

\

\

I



FIGURE 6 Neighborhoods affected by storm flood category 1.

I BARRIO OBRERO
¦	OESTE



&ARRIO OBRERO
MARINA |

M
W

1 h jh

I PARADA 27	*

"	VV

1

1- 		

LAS MO NJ AS

BARRIO OBRERO
SAN CIPRIAN

BUENA VISTA ^
H	SANTURCE

W

BUENA VISTA V
NATO REY	/N

V
\

- a

i



/
-v



ISRAEL-BITUMUL

500 1500 3000 FEET N



FIGURE 7 Neighborhoods affected by storm flood category 5.


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(k

EXISTING CONDITIONS

EXISTING CONDITIONS FOR INDIVIDUAL SITES

SITE 1: ALBERT EINSTEIN HIGH
SCHOOL & HAYDEE REXACH
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

With approximately 345,000 square feet, Albert
Einstein High School site is the most generous
green space in the project area (images 1 and
2). It naturally functions as a stormwater runoff
catchment area from the Barrio Obrero San Ciprian
community, located just north of Buena Vista
Santurce. It also holds the Rexach pump station
(image 3) that collects stormwater from the Rexach
Avenue, the Cantera district and the Barrio Obrero
San Ciprian community, before disposing to the
CMP. Nevertheless, as the capacity and the flow
of the CMP are compromised, the waters revert
to the Buena Vista Santurce community, causing
flooding impacts. The site also has a strategic
location, immediate to public transportation routes
between Haydee Rexach Avenue and Barbosa
Avenue, as well as being located at the intersection
with the CMP Special District of the Cantera
Peninsula. Although the School has not capitalized
on its' strategic location, it offers opportunities for
pedestrian and vehicular access to the avenues and
immediate commercial areas. Programmatically,
the Albert Einstein High School community has
adopted this space for recreational activities such
as soccer and baseball, parking for faculty and
administration, and as the site for a school garden.
Hie school garden initiative is led by Estudiantes
Dispuestos a la Restauracion Ambiental del Carlo
Martin Pena (EDRA), an environmental awareness
program coordinated by ENLACE and comprised of
approximately 23 high school students.

o
o
o

OPEN CANAL
PARKING LOTS
PUMP STATION

0 SIDEWALK
0 FENCE

0 INTERNAL COURTYARD
(BASKETBALL COURT)

FIGURE 11 An analysis of site 1 and its existing site conditions.

19


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y»'«imiumnni





^milium

'///<

/
#



*/////J

%/'~







The water flows to the pump stations through channels
along Avenida Borinquen and Calle Haydee Rexach.
Stormwater coming from Avenida Borinquen travels
directly though the eastern side of the site.





1











FIGURE 12 An analysis of water collection at site 1.

20


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SITE 2: SAN ANTONIO ASIS PLAZA

It's the smaller of the public spaces proposed,
with 25,000 square feet, and currently dedicated
to single-family housing units. Located in the
heart of the community of Buena Vista Santurce,

the site is enclosed by the Jaime Rosario	CALLEanTOni0de

Baez Elementary School, the Centro de Usos	^

Multiples (community center, image 1), religious	<2

organizations, and a low density residential	^

typology. Some of the challenges presented by	sr	^

,-V

the site are the relocation of families currently	^	Jg

on the site of the proposed proj ect (images 2 and	^	ft

3) and the tendency of flooding during average	C/	j?

daily rain events. However, despite its scale, the

site provides the opportunity to programmatically	^

consolidate this public space as a center for
community and education activity.

FIGURE 13 A spatial analysis of site 2.

CALLE BUENOSAIRK ^

"C /

A

\y

21


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SITES 3 AND 4: RESIDENTIAL URBAN PLAZA
BUENA VISTASANTURCE AND BUENA VISTA
SANTURCE WATER PLAZA

Both areas, although separated by the Paseo del Cano Norte
(described below), are understood as an extension that
interweaves the residential area of Buena Vista Santurce with
the littoral/shoreline of CMP. Together, the area amounts to
approximately 50,000 square feet, currently mostly occupied
by residences (images 1 and 2), also religious centers and
small businesses (image 3). This site is located between
Main Street, Bartolome de las Casas Street, B Street, and the
proposed extension of Dolores Street to the Paseo del Cano
Norte. To the west of this area is a basketball court that the
community has expressed a desire to remove and relocate.

Like Plaza San Antonio de Asis, these public spaces provide an
opportunity for stormwater runoff collection and water quality
improvement before they flow into the channel. On the other
hand, this set of spaces, including the Paseo del Cano Norte,
would connect the residential interior of Buena Vista Santurce
with a more exposed landscape towards the banks of the
rehabilitated CMP.

Jr CALLE BUENOS

CALLE PRINCIPAL

FIGURE 14 A spatial analysis of site 3 and 4.

mmRSMlQ

22


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FIGURE 15 A spatial analysis of site 5.

SITE 5: PASEO DEL CANO NORTE

Currently Calle Principal is characterized by an undefined
geometry, lack of sidewalks, and a narrow street section that varies
along its path (image 1). Hie Paseo would extend Calle Principal,
which is cut off before connecting with Calle Martino, on the
southern boundary of the residential Buena Vista Santurce context.
Hie Paseo, as proposed in the CMP District Plan, has the vision of
connecting the communities of Buena Vista Santurce and Barrio
Obrero Marina along the northern limit of the CMP (images 2 and
3), with Ponce de Leon Avenue and the Sagrado Corazon Urban
Train Station to the west, and with Barbosa Avenue to the east. This
presents the opportunity to feed these main arteries and urban
nodes with the integration of alternative means of transportation,
and attractive programming for both the internal community and
the immediate urban context. Hie viability of the Paseo del Cano
Norte depends on the acquisitions of structures and relocation
of famili es residing to the south, and the dredging, expansion,
and the CMP-ERP. In addition, stormwater and sanitary sewer
infrastructure projects yet to be designed and currently in search of
financing, must be commissioned prior to the development of the
dredging project and consequently of the Paseo del Cano Norte.

23


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SITE 6: ISRAEL-BITUMUL GATEWAY WATER
PLAZA

FIGURE 16 A spatial analysis of site 6.

Hi is site is located on the northern edge of Israel-Bitumul
community, connecting it to the CMP, near the mouth of the San
Jose Lagoon (Figure 4). Like sites 3, 4 and 5, since it borders the
CMP, its development is dependent on the acquisition of structures,
relocation of families and the CMP-ERP (images 1, 2, and 3).
Nevertheless, the stormwater, sanitary and Paseo del Cano Sur
infrastructure projects are well-advanced in their design phase. The
area also connects to the south with the community's urban farming
project, and with Israel-Bitumul Park, where there are already
recreational facilities for basketball, baseball, and a playground. The
Israel-Bitumul Water Plaza was conceptualized in the CMP District
Plan, as a "parentheses" through the mangrove mitigation buftera t
the banks of the CMP, to visually and physically expose users to the
restored body of water. It offers the opportunity to serve residents
and visitors, as an emblematic portal to the restoration project,
connecting with the rest of the San Juan Bay Estuary.

2U


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5

DESIGN OPTIONS

BARRIO OBRERO
SAN CIPRIAN

BARRIO OBRERO
MARINA

BUENA VISTA
SANTURCE

BUENA VISTA
HATO REY

ISRAEL-BITUMUL

PROJECT SITES

LAS MONJAS

FIGURE 17 Areas of all project sites in proximity to existing
neighborhoods.

1	ALBERT EINSTEIN HIGH SCHOOL & HAYDEE
REXACH ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

2	SAN ANTONIO ASIS PLAZA

3	RESIDENTIAL URBAN PLAZA BUENA
VISTA SANTURCE

4	BUENA VISTA SANTURCE WATER PLAZA

5	PASEO DEL CANO NORTE

6	ISRAEL-BITUMUL GATEWAY WATER PLAZA

7	MANGROVE RESTORATION/ CANO MARTIN PENA
ECOSYSTEM RESTORATION PROJECT AREA

25


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DESIGN OPTIONS

PROPOSED GREEN
INFRASTRUCTURE STRATEGIES

Various green infrastructure techniques are proposed in the design
options. Hie site analysis and stakeholder conversations helped
influence the stormwater management approach for each site. The
green infrastructure tools proposed in the design options are the
following:

+ Bioswale: a vegetated drainage swale that filters runoff as it flows
through the site.

+ Detention Pond: a vegetated excavated area that captures, stores,
and slows stormwater runoff.

+ Soil Cells engineered structures that suspend the pavement system
and increase the soil volume available to trees below paved surfaces.
They also provide stormwater storage capacity.

+ Permeable Paving: a range of materials that allow for the movement
of stormwater through their surface.

+ Water Plaza: a combination of a detention basin and a plaza that
can hold water during storm events and then drains to function as
an urban plaza. These can function at a variety of sizes and shapes
and host a range of activities.

+ Underground Stormwater Detention: a subsurface system of
chambers or tanks that store stormwater.

References:

PlanningReportforthe Stormwater Collection System Conceptual Design for Buena Vista
Santurce Community, 2016. Conceptual Design Stormwater Collection System- Buena Vista
Santurce Community.

26

nil Proposed Complete Streets	Proposed Open Space

FIGURE 10 Illustrating areas of proposed gray infrastructures.

18" Pipe
¦ ¦¦¦ 24" Pipe

Main Co
Pipe

lection Existing /"*« Proposed

Pump Station Pump Station


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DESIGN OPTIONS

PROPOSED STORMWATER MANAGEMENT DESIGN

References:

Planning Report for the Stormwater Collection System Conceptual Design
forBuena Vista Santurce Community, 2016. Conceptual Design Stormwater
Collection System- Buena Vista Santurce Community.

mil Proposed
Complete
Streets

Proposed Open
Space

18" Pipe

¦	¦¦ 24" Pipe

¦	¦¦ Main Collection

Pipe

4m+

Existing Pump
Station

Proposed Pump
Station



27


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DESIGN OPTIONS

SITE 1: ALBERT EINSTEIN HIGH SCHOOL AND HAYDEE REXACH ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

FIGURE 18 A design proposal for site 1,

0	RECYCLING

0	OUTDOOR CLASSROOM

0	SCIENCE CLASSROOM

0	AMPHITHEATER

0	DETENTION PONDS

0	MAIN WALKWAY

0	GREEN HOUSE

0	PUMP STATION

0	BASKETBALL COURT

NEW PERMEABLE PARKING
LOT

$ MAIN ENTRANCE AND
DROP-OFF

(!) PERSPECTIVE VIEW

0 ESCUELA SUPERIOR
ALBERT EINSTEIN

0 ESCUELA ELEMENTAL
HAYDEE REXACH

28


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DESIGN OVERVIEW

The design concept for the school campus focuses on
managing stormwater through a series of distinct, but
interconnected detention basins that conduct and clean
water coming from the north of the site to the Rexach
stormwater pump station while creating a rich educational
environment around the stormwater system. Overall, the
new layout increases pedestrian activity throughout the
outdoor campus spaces. During the workshop, the EDRA
students preferred a scheme with interconnected detention
basins and a meandering path that can have unique
programs alongside it like an outdoor classroom and library-
focused on environmental education, an amphitheater, and
a school garden. Students also proposed that stations for
trash and recycling be located throughout the campus to
reduce littering.

LAYOUT AND PROGRAM

Design elements for the schoolyard are primarily organized
around a series of detention ponds. These elements include
an outdoor classroom, amphitheater, bio-library, green
house, and educational walking path. In addition, a new
parking lot is proposed along the northern edge of the site
which will include permeable paving, bioswales, and trees.

The interior courtyard of the Albert Einstein High School is
programmed for everyday activity. A new shade structure is
proposed for the basketball court along with new plantings,
and a shelter attached to the building's edge. In addition,
trash and recycling stations are located throughout the site
for better waste management practices.

/ i 	J

i ¦ 1 , _ i





¦j

;

W

. /



^ /-J



*»•»/ J

	/J—1

IE SITE HOLDS APPROX.
255,000 F3 OF WATER ABOVE
AND BELOW GROUND

-J/J I

-

*JJ

s





S

-J** g	J ^



WATER COLLECTS AT
THE PUMP STATION

FIGURE 19 A stormwater strateg)* proposal for site 1.

The design also integrates the peripheral campus conditions
into the masterplan. The scheme suggests a drop-off and entry
points to both the Albert Einstein School and the Haydee
Rexach Elementary School from Calle Haydee Rexach along
with new street tree plantings. A new permeable parking
lot along the northern edge of the site replaces the existing
parking to the east of the site and creates a more formal entry
to Albert Einstein High School.

ABOVE-GROUND
WATER STORAGE

BELOW-GROUND
WATER STORAGE

SURFACE WATER
DRAINAGE

GROUND WATER
DRAINAGE

29


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WATER MANAGEMENT PRACTICES

The site manages stormwater through a series of interconnected detention ponds.
Surface runoff from the neighborhood to the northeast of the site and water
collected in the pipe beneath Avenida Bormquen are directed into the detention
ponds and travel through the system before reaching the stormwater pump station
on Calle Haydee Rexach. Hie detention ponds will slow and temporarily store
the water entering the pump station, relieving pressure on the overall system and
improving the water quality before it enters the CMP. The existing exposed water
channel running parallel to Calle Haydee Rexach and connecting to the pump
station is reconfigured and concealed below ground to increase the amount of
usable space and remove physical barriers. The site manages approximately
255,000 cubic feet of stormwater above and below ground.

FIGURE 20 A section cut from the school, through the	To ru'**•»>

detention pond and to the outdoor classroom.	p(JMp ST4* ** **

30


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FIGURE 21 An existing view of the schoolyard shows
major flooding issues and no clear program for this space.

FIGURE 22 A view of the schoolyard detention ponds slowly filtering rainwater.

31


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FIGURE 24 Top: Quartierspark in Freiburg,
Germany.

PHOTO CREDIT AGOpenspace

FIGURE 25 Right: Manassas Park
Elementary School in Manassas Park, VA.
PHOTO CREDIT Siteworks

Planted detention ponds store and slow stormwater runoff, mitigatingflooding in the surrounding
areas. The examples above illustrate how walls or edges can define the detention ponds and create
a feature that is easy to maintain and aesthetically appealing. Detention ponds also act as an
educational feature, providing community members and students with an outdoor classroom or a
space for social gatherings.

OUTDOOR CLASSTOOM&





32


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DESIGN OPTIONS

SITE 2: SAN ANTONIO ASIS PLAZA

CLL ANTONIO DE ASIS



FIGURE 26 A design proposal for site 2.

Q WATER PLAZA Q SIDEWALK

0 OPEN LAWN Q CLOSE STREET AND CONNECT THE PARK TO

THE SCHOOL TO CREATE A UNIFIED CAMPUS

PERSPECTIVE VIEW


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DESIGN OVERVIEW

Hi e proposal for San Antonio Asis Plaza creates a
community campus, connecting the adjacent school,
church, and community center and establishes
programmatic elements that serve the needs of these
organizations. During the community workshops
there was consensus around the types of uses and
programs desired in the design of this site. The
residents showed support and enthusiasm for closing
the portion of the street to increase the connection to
the plaza and therefore create a community campus.

LAYOUT AND PROGRAM

Th e San Antonio Asis Plaza acts as the "front yard" to
the school and church. Th e design proposes to close
a section of the road (Calle B) in order to connect
these buildings directly to the plaza. Th e plaza is
centered around a water plaza that features a full-size
basketball court, an amphitheater for community
events, painted games (e.g. four square, hopscotch),
and tables for playing dominoes. An open lawn with
trees surrounds the water plaza space and provides a
shaded area. Additionally, the Calle Antonio de Asis
edge of the plaza functions as a drop-off point for the
school, increasing student and pedestrian safety.

THE SITE HOLDS APPROX.
29,300 F3 OF WATER ABOVE
AND BELOW GROUND

FIGURE 27 Astormwaterstrategy
proposal for site 2.

O

ABOVE-GROUND WATER
STORAGE

BELOW-GROUND WATER
STORAGE

SURFACE WATER
DRAINAGE

OPTION 1: WATER DRAINS TO
CALLE ANTONIO DE ASIS

OPTION 2: WATER DRAINS
TOWARDS THE BOX CULVERT ON
THE PASEO

GROUND WATER
DRAINAGE

CLL ANTONIO DE ASIS
			

34


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FIGURE 28 A wiew of the Water Plaza towards the school The community can access the
Water Plaza after the water has been drained from a storm event.

35


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WATER MANAGEMENT PRACTICES

The site manages approximately 29,300 cubic
feet of stormwater through both above and below
ground strategies and captures stormwater runoff
through three main techniques:

+ Permeable paving: all hardscape within the
plaza will be permeable.

+ Underground detention beneath the lawn:
Water storage chambers beneath the lawn will
capture stormwater runoff.

+ Water Plaza: The water plaza acts as a
detention basin. During a rain event, surface
runoff collects in the recessed portions of the
plaza and slowly drains out connecting into
either the pipe beneath Calle Antonio de Asis
or directly to the proposed box culvert beneath
the Paseo. Additional study is necessary to
determine the best route for drainage and the
ultim ate depth of the water plaza areas.

FIGURE 29 A view of the Water Plaza during a storm event. The
Water Plaza can store rainwater and alleviate pressure on the
gray infrastructure system.

36


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TREES PLANTED
WITH SOIL CELLS

CALLE B BECOMES A
PEDESTRIAN WALKWAY
WITH PERMEABLE PAVING

LJt



FIGURE 30 A section cut of the school, the Water Plaza
and the lawn.

FIGURE 31 A section cut of the school, theWater Plaza
and the lawn after a rain even.



&£l

3*

GREEN SPACE WITH

UNDERGROUND

DETENTION



WATER PLAZA WITH
BASKETBALL COURT AND
AMPHITHEATER. PLAZA HOLDS
WATER DURING RAIN EVENTS

%

31
ars

S DRA,NS FR°M WATER PLAZA AND CONNECTS To'

. E.RdG™ND DRAINAGE SYSTEMS ON CALLE ANTONIO DE
ASIS OR TOWARDS THE PASEO

37


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SITE 2: SAN ANTONIO ASlS PLAZA

RELEVANT DESIGN PRECEDENTS

FIGURE 32 Water Square Benthemplein, Rotterdam, NL.
PHOTO CREDIT Ossip VanDuivenbode, Urbanisten.NL

FIGURE 33 Top: Darby Street in Auckland, New Zealand,
PHOTO CREDIT Wikimedia Commons

The public plaza acts as a stormwater basin during rain events and becomes a public plaza when
the water drains. Both plazas and pedestrian fiiendly streets create additional community
gathering spaces and thoroughfare, bringing awareness to local shops and services.

FIGURE 34 Bottom: A shared space design between vehiculars and
pedestrians in New Road, Brighton.

P H OT0 C R E DIT Ghel Architects

38

PEDESTRIAN STREETS

THEATfll
ROY' i


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DESIGN OPTIONS

SITES 3 AND 4: RESIDENTIAL URBAN PLAZA BUENA VISTA SANTURCE
AND BUENA VISTA SANTURCE WATER PLAZA

O WATER PLAZA

0 RAIN GARDEN

0 WATER TAXI
STATION

Q OPEN PLAZA

0 BOARDWALK

0 115 KW POWER
LINES

Q PASEO WITH
SEPARATED
PEDESTRIAN &
BICYCLE LANES

6 PERSPECTIVE VIEW

FIGURE 35 A design proposal for sites 3 and 4.

39


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DESIGN OVERVIEW

The overarching design concept is to combine two proposed open
spaces on either side of the Paseo del Cano Norte and promotes
enhanced pedestrian access to, and activity near, the CMP. Hi e
sites can function as two distinct spaces or as one large space,
by closing the paseo to vehicular traffic, during community
events or festivals. Hie combined space integrates the elements
of the Paseo del Cano Norte into the overall design. Hie design
scheme organizes spaces around green infrastructure "pods"
and integrates specific programmatic elements with stormwater
management elements throughout the site. Given the site's
relationship to the CMP, the overall design acknowledges the city's
dredging project and the varying water levels within the CMP. The
community feedback focused on the elements they wanted to see
that would best support community events and celebrations like
public restrooms, infrastructure for markets, and a stage.

LAYOUT AND PROGRAM

Though this design is technically comprised of two different sites,
the overall layout merges the Urban Plaza and the Water Plaza to
create a more powerful, seamless connection from the community
to the CMP. Hie water plaza connects directly to the CMP, where
users can participate in recreational activities along the water's
edge or travel out into the CMP via a water taxi or kayak.

Hie overall layout can be seen as a gradient, distributing highly
active, programmed community spaces with more open flexible
space. Everyday program elements are arranged nearer to
community and along the northern edge of the Paseo, while
a larger plaza space is revealed along the CMP side of the site
for seasonal community events. Community spaces double as
recessed water plazas (stormwater management) whenever
possible, and the programmatic possibilities include public
restrooms, a coffee kiosk, a newspaper stand, tables for dominoes,
children's play areas, market space, and an amphitheater and
stage.

£0



IW'MM

FIGURE 36 A stormwater strategy
proposal for sites 3 and 4.

SURFACE WATER
DRAINAGE

GROUND WATER
DRAINAGE

D

ABOVE-GROUND
WATER STORAGE

BELOW-GROUND
WATER STORAGE


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WATER MANAGEMENT PRACTICES

Hie site utilizes several main methods to capture stormwater runoff. All paving used
within the site is permeable. Additionally, stormwater pods, which consist of both rain
gardens and sunken water plazas, work together to capture, clean and slow water as it
passes through the site. When the sunken water plazas are dry, they become places for
sports and theater.

RAIN GARDENS AT
VARIOUS LEVELS STORE
AND FILTER WATER

WATER FLOWS FROM
STORMWATER TREATMENT
TRAIN INTO THE CANO

LARGE OPEN PLAZA WITH
VIEWS TO THE CANO.
PERMEABLE PAVING
STORES WATER

FIGURE 37 A section cut of the Cano and the water plaza.


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WATER MANAGEMENT PRACTICES CONTINUED

During a rain storm, recessed water plazas and rain gardens (1) begin to fill with water.
As the sites continues to be inundated, overflow drains distribute water to additional
pods (2), creating a network of stormwater management areas. Eventually, the water
cleaned through the stormwater pods is slowly released into the CMP (3), protecting
habitat and water quality, and the water plaza becomes accessible again for activity.
The site manages approximately 56,200 cubic feet of stormwater above and below
ground.

RAIN GARDENS AT
VARIOUS LEVELS STORE
AND FILTER WATER

WATER FLOWS FROM
STORMWATER TREATMENT
TRAIN INTO THE CANO

AMPHITHEATER WATER
PLAZA HOLDS WATER
DURING A RAIN EVENT

WATER FLOWS THROUGH STORMWATER SYSTEM. WATER IS
CLEANED AND THEN RELEASED INTO THE CANO

FIGURE 38 A section cut of the Cano and the water plaza
after a rain event.

42


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FIGURE 39 A view of the Water Plaza towards the Cam The community can access the
Water Plaza after water has been drainedfrom a storm event.


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SITES 3 AND 4: RESIDENTIAL URBAN PLAZA BUENA VISTA SANTURCE
AND BUENA VISTA SANTURCE WATER PU\ZA

RELEVANT DESIGN PRECEDENTS

FIGURE S 40-43. Water Square Benthemplein, Rotterdam, NL. The plaza
functions as a stormwater basin during rain events and becomes a public plaza
when the water drains. This creates a places for excess stormwater runoff while
also providing a place for communities to gather and enjoy.

PHOTO CREDIT Top Left: Jeroen Musch, Urbanisten.NL; Bottom Left: Ossip Van
Duivenbode, Urbanisten.NL; Right: Lepamplet.com


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DESIGN OPTIONS

SITE 5: PASEO DEL CANO NORTE

FIGURE 41 Illustrating location of site 5 in relation to sites 1,2,3 and 4,

DESIGN OVERVIEW

The proposal for this segment of the Paseo suggests adjustments to the layout for
vehicular, pedestrian, and cyclist traffic and introduces green infrastructure into the
overall design. The overarching comment from the community during the design
charrette was around concerns for safety. For this reason, the community selected the
option that provided more separation between cyclists and pedestrians and located
the zone for cyclists closer to the street edge.

LAYOUT AND PROGRAM

The vehicular travel and parking lanes are reduced to the
minimum lane width requirements, to allow for greater
pedestrian space along both sides of the street. The
neighborhood edge of the Paseo features a traditional sidewalk.
Bioswales flank both sides of the paseo to capture surface
runoff and create a vegetated buffer between vehicles and
pedestrians. Additionally, bumpouts along the paseo slow
traffic and help bridge to the pedestrian space on either side of
the street. The CMP side of the paseo creates a more generous
space for a separated bike path and a walking path along the
mangrove edge. Street trees are shifted from the street edge
on the south side of the Paseo to the center of the recreational
path to provide separation between pedestrians and cyclists
and to avoid interference with the serviture of the 115 kw
power line that rail run along Paseo del Cano Norte. Space
along the Paseo is open for site amenities like benches and
offers the possibility for street vendors or food trucks. Lastly, an
iconic paving pattern along the Paseo gives a unique character
and identity to the street. Overall, the design for the Paseo
creates a safe space for commuter and recreational biking,
walking, running, and many other activities while defining a
viewing platform for the mangroves and natural habitat along
the CMP

WATER MANAGEMENT PRACTICES

The proposal for this segment of the paseo incorporates green
infrastructure in several ways:

+ Bioswales along the street edge capture surface runoff.

+ Trees within the recreational zone are planted in soil cells
which increase the soil volume available to trees below the
paved surface; and provide stormwater storage capacity.

+ All paving within the pedestrian/ cyclist zones will be
permeable with underground gravel storage below, if the
water table level in this area allows.

45


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PERMEABLE PAVING

GRAVEL UNDER ROADWAY
FOR WATER STORAGE

I

-£



5'. 5', 10' ,

FIGURE 42 A proposed street design of site 5.

46

115 KW POWER LINE

STREET TREES PLANTED IN
SOIL CELLS SEPARATE THE BIKE
AND PEDESTRIAN TRAFFIC

PARK

MANGROVES


-------
FIGURE 43 A view ofthe Paseo along the mangrove edge. The trees define the separated
biking and pedestrian zones. Iconic paving creates a unique sense of place and the
bioswales store rainwater while creating a buffer to the roadway.

hi


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SITE 5: PASEO DELCANO NORTE

RELEVANT DESIGN PRECEDENTS

FIGURE 44 Ipanema Beach, Rio De Janeiro. The use of iconic paving pattern creates
an unique sense of place and helps differentiate between pedestrian right of way and
bike lanes or vehicular travel lanes.

PHOTO CREDIT Photos4travel.com

48

FIGURE 45 Green streets of Portland, Oregon. The use ofrain gardens along city streets acts
as a buffer between vehicular and pedestrian right of way. Bioswales and permeable paving
store storm water runoff and clean the water before entering the storm drainage system.

PHOTO CREDIT Portlandoregon.gov


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DESIGN OPTIONS

SITE 6: ISRAEL-BITUMUL GATEWAY WATER PLAZA

0 HIGH POINT
Q LOW POINT

O

ABOVE-GROUND
WATER STORAGE

BELOW-GROUND
WATER STORAGE

t SURFACE WATER
DRAINAGE

^ GROUNDWATER
3 DRAINAGE

THE SITE HOLDS APPROX.
71,200 FT3 OF WATER ABOVE
AND BELOW GROUND

FIGURE 46 A stormwater strategy proposalfor site 6.

DESIGN OVERVIEW

LAYOUT AND PROGRAM

This Water Plaza represents a unique typology as a "gateway"
to the CMP since this is the first water plaza someone would
encounter coming from the San Jose Lagoon. The design
seeks to create a dynamic interaction with the CMP, while
providing educational opportunities for community members,
eco-tourists, and scientists, and flexible open space for large
events and recreational activities. The large size of this water
plaza, approximately 1.6 acres, is also a unique characteristic
and allows for multiple and diverse activities. Given the site's
relationship to the CMP, the overall design acknowledges the city's
dredging project and the varying water levels within the CMP
Residents from Buena Vista Santurce were enthusiastic about
the visualizations of the botanical garden proposal, however,
additional input from residents of the Israel-Bitumul community
is necessary.

The site interacts with the CMP in two ways: through a recreational water channel
and an expansive boardwalk along the edge of the CMP. The water channel
provides an opportunity for water recreational activity, featuring a kayak rental
and boat launch. The boardwalk directly connects to the CMP and acts as viewing
platform and community gathering space.

Community members, tourists, and scientists can study the flora and fauna of the
CMP ecosystem through the central botanical garden, the cultivated mangrove
areas, and various stations for bird observation and water quality monitoring
located along the boardwalk. There are two flexible open spaces that can serve the
community for events and activities: a large lawn and the boardwalk-plaza along
the CMP edge. Both spaces are approximately 12,000 square feet and can be used
for large festivals, up to approximately 1,000 people, or traditional recreational
activities. Hie design elements of this gateway water plaza can be scaled down and
applied to other water plazas along the CMP

49


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©

as™»J
FIGURE 47 A design proposal for site 6.

50

O	OPEN LAWN

0	BOTANICAL

0	PLAZA

0	MAIN BOARDWALK

0	WATER MONITORING STATION

0	KAYAK RENTALS

0	CULTIVATED MANGROVES

0	MANGROVE BUFFER ZONE

0	BIRD OBSERVATION DECK

^	PERSPECTIVE VIEW


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WATER MANAGEMENT PRACTICES

This water plaza applies a slightly different approach for managing
stormwater. Overall, the site functions as an "open system," allowing
tidal fluctuations from the CMP to flow through and penetrate the
interior of the plaza. In addition, the site captures surface runoff from
the Paseo del Cano Sur and stores and filters it through underground
detention cells in the lawn and then through the botanical garden before
it reaches the CMP. The site will manage approximately 71,200 cubic feet
of stormwater above and below ground.

MANGROVE
CUSHIONING ZONE

CULTIVATED MANGROVES

BOTANICAL GARDEN

BIRD OBSERVATION DECK
AND KAYAK LAUNCH

TIDAL FLUCTUATIONS
FROM THE CANO

FIGURE 48 A section of the mangroves to the botanical garden.


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FIGURE 49 A view from the boardwalk to the Cano. The expansive boardwalk and plaza
along the cano allow for adequate space for everyday activities and community events.

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SITE 6: ISRAEL-BITUMUL GATEWAY WATER PLAZA

RELEVANT DESIGN PRECEDENTS

An iconic waterfront creates a place for communities to gather and
opportunities to host local events. It also creates unique views and
access to the water, providing a scenic thoroughfare.

FIGURE 50 A waterfront space, El Malecon in Naguabo, Puerto Rico
PHOTO CREDIT http://www.primerahora.com

FIGURE 51 A waterfront space, Malecon de Arroyo in Puerto Rico
PHOTO CREDIT http://www.primerahora.com

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6

NEXT STEPS

In May 2016, after a planning process of more than six years, the Secretary
of the Army for Civil Works approved the Feasibility Study and the
Environmental Impact Statement of the CMP-ERP. The approval of the
Feasibility Study and the Environmental Impact Statement allowed the
allocation of federal funds for the project, whose estimated costs are $215
million, of which the federal government will provide 65% and ENLACE
must contribute 35% as part of the local cost share. In June 2016, ENLACE
and the USACE signed the Design Agreement for the CMP-ERP, thus
initiating the pre-construction, engineering and design (PED) phase of the
project. As part of the PED phase, geotechnical investigations have been
conducted, hydrographic and topographic data has been collected, and the
horizontal/vertical controls of the CMP-ERP have been established, among
other activities. ENLACE and USACE will complete the design for the
landscape and recreational components of the CMP-ERP, some of which
have been conceptually developed as part of this SGIA project.

The consultation and citizen participation process celebrated during
the development of the CMP District Plan has made it possible to reach
consensus on the priorities of each community, including programmatic
needs, public space character and identity, connectivity strategies, and
opportunities for community economic development, among others.
During the engagement process for this SGIA project, the community
also identified concerns regarding the procurement of financing sources,
maintenance and sustainability of green infrastructure applications,
security in public space, and the necessary coordination of all of the
various projects to be developed within the CMP District. This last concern
is crucial, since to ensure the cost-benefit optimization of the investments
of the individual projects, work must be done through a comprehensive
systems approach, where the green infrastructure, the sanitary and
gray stormwater infrastructure systems, and the dredging project are
coordinated. This is an even greater challenge because it depends on each
entity, such as the Municipality of San Juan, Puerto Rico Aqueduct and
Sewer Authority (PRASA) and ENLACE, concurrently obtaining financing
for their respective projects.

On the other hand, the work developed will serve ENLACE as a tool to
determine priorities of specific areas included in this project, but also

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presents a variety of adaptable scenarios applicable to public spaces
in other communities within the CMP District Plan. In addition, the
participation process allowed for the establishment of collaboration with
government agencies, organizations, and the Municipality of San Juan to
proactively work for the integration of the various projects. Organizations
such as, the San Juan Bay Estuary Program (SJBEP) proved to be
particularly interested in the proposed green infrastructure projects and is
envisaged as a collaborator in the gathering of scientific information and
monitoring of systems; and in promoting the educational aspects of green
infrastructure to the community in general. All the approaches explored
in this project are transferable to other areas of the city, and elsewhere
in Puerto Rico, experiencing similar flooding issues to make urban
infrastructure more resilient to extreme storm events.

POTENTIAL FINANCING SOURCES

TIGER's Discretionary Funds (Transportation Investment Generating
Economic Recovery) offered by the Department of Transportation,
seek innovative proposals with multimodal projects that generate
economic development opportunities and promote the complete streets
vision, providing safe and affordable transportation to urban and rural
communities. The Paseo del Cano Norte project could potentially benefit
from these competitive funds. For more information: https://www.
transportation.gov/tiger

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) provides
funding through the Community Development Block Grants (CDBG)
program. The city of San Juan already benefits from these funds through
the Municipal Entitlement Area, and Puerto Rico in general through the
Insular Area. The funds are directed primarily to low-income communities
for the development of viable urban communities; decent housing and
adequate livable environments; and providing opportunities for economic
development. The funds provide for relocation of families and demolition
of structures; construction and improvement of public facilities;
development of activities related to energy conservation; and programs to
create or retain economic development. Under these parameters, all the
proposals included in this project qualify, in addition to the infrastructure


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improvements necessary for the full development of the communities.
The Albert Einstein High School site and San Antonio Asfs Plaza site,
particularly seek to improve the services of the facilities of the neighboring
schools for the benefit of communities and for the conservation of
resources. For more information: https://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/
HUD?src=/program_offices/comm_planning/communitydevelopment/
programs

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides the Clean Water
State Revolving Fund (CWSRF), for which Puerto Rico qualifies. The fund
emerges from the Clean Water Act as a financial assistance program for
a range of water infrastructure projects, including green infrastructure
projects. The fund is managed in Puerto Rico by the PR Environmental
Quality Board; and its aim is to capitalize on other infrastructure
developments. It requires a state pairing of 20% and also provides low
or zero-interest loans and grants to states, municipalities, and nonprofit
organizations. For more information: https://www.epa.gov/cwsrf

In addition to this resource, the new Water Infrastructure and Resiliency
Finance Center's Water Finance Clearinghouse may also be used to search
for funding sources available to US territories for stormwater infrastructure
projects. For more information visit: https://ofmpub.epa.gov/apex/wfc/
f?p=165:l:1787613072094::NO:::

Lastly, there are several online green infrastructure cost estimation tools
that can be utilized for planning and advancing these design proposals.
For the EPA's National Stormwater Calculator visit: https://www.epa.gov/
water-research/national-stormwater-calculator

And for the Water Environment & Reuse Foundation's BMP and LID Whole
Life Cost Tools visit:

http://www.werf.org/ c/KnowledgeAreas/Stormwater/
ProductsToolsnonWERF/BMP_and_LID_Whole_Li.aspx

Potential funding sources from local government agencies is somewhat
uncertain at this time. Puerto Rico is experiencing financial problems that
are creating difficulties in delivering even essential services. Given this,
government agencies and municipalities have been forced to postpone

the development of capital improvement projects. In the meantime, it
is essential to continue to encourage infrastructure agencies such as
PRASA, the Highway and Transportation Authority, the Department of
Transportation and Public Works, and the Municipality of San Juan to
work together and to embed green infrastructure practices as an essential
element in the development of the built environment; that provides social,
environmental, and economic benefits, and above all, protects water
quality.

Strategic existing alliances with related entities such as the San Juan Bay
Estuary Program (SJBEP) must continue to advance the projects and
environmental restoration initiatives of the CMP; being an integral part of
protecting and maintaining the estuary. The SJBEP is leading water quality
restoration projects and monitoring pilot projects, and has developed an
environmental database that could nurture the design development of the
proposals included in this project. Their water quality monitoring database
includes dissolved oxygen, pH, and turbidity data; and can be viewed
here: http://www.estuario.org/index.php/agua/monitoreo . Likewise, the
program has access to funds that could complement the proposed work.

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«EPA

United States
Environmental Protection
Agency


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