The Chicago-based Center for Neighborhood Technology has created a simple web-based tool that quantifies the reduced runoff and cost of using alternatives to curbing and piping stormwater offsite. While larger cities have engineering staff who use more sophisticated tools, this one is useful for towns, homeowners and citizen volunteers on municipal committees.
First choose from six "green interventions" such as using porous pavement on driveways and sidewalks. Then choose a development scenario such as suburban new development. Finally fill in 12 factors such as size and slopes. The calculator then produces extensive financial and hydrologic details such as:
Center for Neighborhood Technology
2125 W North Ave.
Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.4800
773.278.3840 (Fax)
Please email us with comments or questions at greenvalues@cnt.org.