| The objective of this thesis is to develop a city-wide prioritization matrix resulting in recommendations for green infrastructure (GI) focus areas in St. Louis, Missouri through use of vacant properties. The prioritization matrix was created based on background research into three categories: rationale for green infrastructure choices, incorporation of vacant land into stormwater management planning and the role of partnerships. The matrix and recommendations are further supported by a review of the GI focused plans of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Detroit, Michigan, and Cleveland, Ohio. The prioritization matrix incorporates potential direct benefits and indirect benefits of GI projects into four sections: stormwater management, existing conditions, synergy opportunities and socio-economic factors. Indicators for each section were analyzed using Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping. The results showed that a multi-layer matrix allows community benefits to be incorporated in decision making with resulting focus areas representing opportunities for different projects and scales. |
