Restoring Balance

Abstract

Detroit has faced multiple damaging flood events throughout its history, particularly due to urban planning mistakes made in the past. This thesis investigation proposes a combination of infrastructures to reconnect natural hydrological systems by envisioning strategies to redirect flood runoff to reconstructed marshes and wetlands through a series of creeks and ponds, providing an equitable urban environment for residents to live and flourish within their communities. Two projects are referenced in this approach: Bloody Run Creek and Renewing Low-Density projects, both by the Detroit Collaborative Design Center, as well as publications by Abas Shkembi titled "Redlined Neighborhoods in Detroit..." and another publication by Larson et al. titled "Recurrent Home Flooding in Detroit...". This thesis investigation aims to address the intersection of flood resilience and equity in urban environments, posing key inquiries that include the economic potential of restoring urban wetlands and water streams on vacant lots, the implications of rezoning policies for parks and wetlands, and practical approaches to restoring wetlands in residential areas without displacing residents. Additionally, considerations are given to the balance of blue and green infrastructure, water and soil remediation strategies, suitable plant species for flooded and polluted environments, and the integration of various infrastructures to effectively manage water systems. The study delves into the significance of indigenous perspectives on land and nature in future design, and the potential contributions of urban wetland restoration to community well-being alongside recreational opportunities. The study employs a multifaceted approach involving mapping of current and historical data linked to flood causations, site analysis of the Boynton neighborhood, visual ethnography using photos of the site that are compared to mapped data, interviews of professionals, and animated projection of interview findings over a 3D layered map of the Boynton neighborhood, and urban design proposal. Amid the exploration of flood causations and mitigation strategies, some findings arose. It is possible to restore nature’s balance by connecting different natural cycles and harmonious relationships between living organisms and the elements of the Earth. Some inspired green and blue strategies to mitigate floods include using riparian buffers near rivers and water streams, decreasing the size of sewer sectional areas by daylighting creeks, and restoring wetlands that filter air, soil, and water from acid rain and sewer pollutants by using ponds and native vegetation. To dismantle the systematic environmental injustices in Detroit and have a flourishing future from all angles (economically, socially, and environmentally), it is important to fix past mistakes by restoring nature’s balance and maintaining it. In conclusion, flood resiliency is a continuous process that needs to be accomplished on both regional and communal levels.