Connect with Metro
503-797-1700
503-797-1804 TDD
503-797-1797 fax

Green streets: Innovative solutions for stormwater and stream crossings

Planning and conservation    Urban development and revitalization    Tools for designing streets    Green streets handbook

The Green streets handbook is now available. The handbook describes stormwater management strategies and includes detailed illustrations of “green” street designs that allow infiltration and limit stormwater runoff.

How to order

Handbooks are 11 inches wide by 8-1/2 inches tall in size, with soft covers and spiral bindings. Single copies of the handbooks are free (including shipping) to residents of the metro region; there is a charge for multiple copies. Handbooks are for sale to residents outside the metro region.

Buy online using the link below. To place your order by phone or e-mail, or if you have questions, call 503-797-1500 or send e-mail to 2040@oregonmetro.gov.

Green streets [cover]

Green streets: Innovative solutions for stormwater and stream crossings
Published: June 2002
Price: $14.95

Add to cart

This is a resource for designing environmentally sound streets that can help protect streams and wildlife habitat. The handbook describes basic stormwater management strategies and illustrates street designs with features such as street trees, landscaped swales and special paving materials that allow infiltration and limit runoff. The handbook also provides guidance on balancing the needs of protecting stream corridors and providing access across those streams.

What is a green street?

A green street can be defined as a street designed to:

  • integrate a system of stormwater management within its right of way
  • reduce the amount of water that is piped directly to streams and rivers
  • be a visible component of a system of “green infrastructure” that is incorporated into the aesthetics of the community
  • make the best use of the street tree canopy for stormwater interception as well as temperature mitigation and air quality improvement
  • ensure the street has the least impact on its surroundings, particularly at locations where it crosses a stream or other sensitive area.

The design and construction of green streets is one component of a larger watershed approach to improving the region's water quality, and requires a more broad-based alliance for its planning, funding, maintenance and monitoring.

Need assistance?

Regional Transportation Planning
503-797-1750
trans@oregonmetro.gov

Related Links

Tools for designing streets

Discover practical information for designing safe and healthy streets with four handbooks published by Metro.

© 2012 Metro. All rights reserved.

Send questions, comments and suggestions about the website to feedback@oregonmetro.gov.

Metro
600 NE Grand Ave.
Portland, OR 97232-2736
503-797-1700
503-797-1804 TDD
503-797-1797 fax