Mission-driven properties in Buffalo adopt green infrastructure

BSA’s Rain Check 2.0 Green Infrastructure Grant Program

The Buffalo Sewer Authority selected Greenprint to administer the Rain Check 2.0 Green Infrastructure Grant Program, which funds green infrastructure projects on tax-exempt private properties in Buffalo’s priority combined sewer overflow basins. Buffalo’s combined sewer system can overflow during heavy rain or snowmelt, sending untreated water into Lake Erie. The program supports the city’s efforts to protect the Great Lakes and strengthen climate resilience.

Building on Rain Check 1.0, the authority’s initial green infrastructure investment, Rain Check 2.0 reduces stormwater runoff to help meet Long Term Control Plan goals for minimizing sewer overflows. These projects also aim to improve water quality, beautify properties, reduce the heat island effect and support community well-being.

As program administrator, Greenprint manages projects from start to finish at no cost to participants. To support enrollment, we helped the authority develop an outreach strategy that included social media and web content. Once enrolled, we collaborate with local engineers on site designs, provide community engagement tools, oversee construction and guide long-term green infrastructure maintenance.