Community and Regional Planning Program

 

Date of this Version

10-2023

Citation

A professional project for the degree Master of Community and Regional Planning Community and Regional Planning, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, October 2023

Review Committee:

Professor Zhenghong Tang, Ph.D., Program Director, CRPL

Assistant Professor Abigail Cochran, Ph.D., CRPL

Professor Kim Todd, Extension Horticulture Specialist

Licensed Landscape Architect Annie Folck, P.E., Gering, Nebraska City Engineer

Comments

Copyright 2023, Christina E. Land

Abstract

This professional project is founded on my education, experiences, and networks. I have had the opportunity to use what I have learned thus far and be challenged to look at public planning from a different perspective. In partnership with the City of Gering I was able to get knee deep in the facility planning of the city owned property which is home to the Community Ever Green House. The project reviews how the property is integrated into the community and the impact it has. Then, identifies opportunities to improve overall functionality with a closer look at addressing hazard mitigation using green infrastructure planning for stormwater management due to adverse impacts stemming from the neighboring properties and the runoff from the greenhouse roof. The project scope includes meetings with property managers, identifying key challenges, then proposing a plan for improvements, followed by implementing some of the recommendations and leaving with key project objectives to continue with. Research methodology involves a mixed method approach with the use of quantitative and qualitative data in the form of primary and secondary sources. Qualitative data is gathered through interactions with municipal staff, a volunteer workforce, and nonprofit organizations. Case studies of projects addressing similar challenges will provide a scope of recommendations. Quantitative data is gathered through scientific analysis of stormwater volume runoff, infiltration rates and grading slopes. Primary data sources include interviews, on-site evaluations, planning meetings, public engagement events and mentored sessions. Secondary data sources include case studies, GIS site mapping, and numerous other studies, polls, and journal articles that provide a mixture of qualitative and quantitative data. The result of the project includes a site analysis, a proposed plan of improvements which addresses walkability and storm water management, with the use of plants and bioswales, furthermore a planting plan, project timeline, completed activities and recommendations for completion.

Review Committee:

Professor Zhenghong Tang, Ph.D., Program Director, CRPL

Assistant Professor Abigail Cochran, Ph.D., CRPL

Professor Kim Todd, Extension Horticulture Specialist

Licensed Landscape Architect Annie Folck, P.E., Gering, Nebraska City Engineer

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