StormStore Terra Firma Pilot Project

A pilot report from the Metropolitan Planning Council and Emerald South explore how greenwater storm infrastructure (GSI) can be implemented based on local sewer conditions and vacant lot availability for efficient stormwater management. In partnership with One Water Econ and Environmental Consulting and Technology, the report is a hypothetical case study based on a vacant lot in South-Side Chicago, detailing how the parcel could be transformed for stormwater runoff as well as recreational public access. Using GSI in this case study reveals how intentional stormwater planning can provide aesthetic and community benefits alongside strategic climate planning, creating a more resilient neighborhood with vacant lots as prime assets.