What role does the stormwater management plan play in urban development?

The stormwater management plan is essential in urban development as it specifically addresses post-construction runoff. In urban areas, the natural landscape is often altered by construction activities, leading to increased impervious surfaces that prevent water from soaking into the ground. This alteration can significantly impact local water quality and quantity, resulting in issues such as flooding, erosion, and pollution.

By establishing guidelines and practices within the stormwater management plan, developers are directed on how to manage the stormwater runoff that occurs after construction is complete. This includes strategies like the implementation of retention basins, green roofs, permeable pavements, and other best management practices (BMPs) that help to mitigate the effects of increased runoff. The goal of a stormwater management plan is to ensure that the post-construction conditions do not lead to detrimental impacts on nearby water bodies and the overall environment, thus preserving water resources and promoting sustainability in urban settings.