Supporting grassroots solutions to neighborhood flooding

Stormwater challenges in the Grasslyn Manor neighborhood of Milwaukee are driven by a combination of long-standing physical conditions —such as historic waterways and regional topography — and more recent social factors, including development and inconsistent reporting of basement backups. These issues, along with infiltration and inflow, have led to ongoing flooding concerns. In July 2023, residents launched Help Build the Ark, a community effort to share personal stories and spark collective action.

With funding from the Builders Initiative, Greenprint provided technical assistance to the Advisory Group and community engagement support for their resident-led effort to identify practical solutions and financial resources to help homeowners reduce flooding risks. The Advisory Group met monthly for 11 months to guide the planning process, shape a shared vision and engage neighbors through interviews, surveys and public meetings. Greenprint facilitated the work and, directed by community input,developed two community assets: the Neighborhood Stormwater Strategies for Grasslyn Manor, a resident-informed plan for equitable, proactive stormwater management; and the Resident Handbook, a tool for homeowners that included stormwater management best practices and resources including local programs and funding opportunities Momentum generated from these efforts has resulted in further interest and investment from the City of Milwaukee in community stormwater solutions in Grasslyn Manor.
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Photos: Michael Trimm