25M - AGMT - SCAG MOU AND PLANNING CONSULTANTS

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Management and control of stormwater in urban areas has seen significant change in a decade. Requirements for storm water control have become more restrictive and regulated, which thankfully has led to an overall improvement in the water quality of our water bodies. While requirements are imposed by the State of California, Santa Ana also has requirements. However, despite more regulations, there are also more opportunities for funding of stormwater improvements from Federal, State and Local sources. As an example of this, many cities are reducing excess hardscape including asphalt, for increased direct stormwater infiltration into soils. This not only improvements stormwater quality before it enters water bodies and aquifers, it also becomes opportunities for added landscaping and green streets. GREEN STREETS Like stormwater, the greening of urban streets is a rapidly changing field that can result in more attractive public realm and pedestrian environments, but can also strain city maintence and operations budgets if not done properly. The science and best practices of growing healthy trees in urban areas is a field that MIG practitioners are experts in. In addition, knowing which trees grow best in each type of urban environment is essential, as well undertesting the design objectives of each street, especially in Santa Ana. MIG landscape architects and civil engineers understand the real importance of subsurface growing conditioner and bring a thorough understanding of the nexus between tree health, soil, aeration and irrigation. MIG landscape architects and civil engineers also are experts in preparation of cost estimates and maintenance manuals for municipalities. This full -circle approach will be key to creating sustainable and cost- effective green streets in Santa Ana. MIG will work closely with the City of Santa Ana staff to identify opportunities and cost- effective recommendations for the greening of Santa Ana's streets. This includes but is not limited to expanding tree planting areas in sidewalks with additional parkway planting, creating bioswales within sidewalks and parkway areas, and removal of excessive areas of street asphalt and replacement with rain garden and infiltration basins. An understanding of subsurface soils and soil composition as evidenced through existing geotechnical reports will be also be an important factor. In addition, the creation of green streets within Santa Ana will be a great opportunity for education and will incorporate interpretive displays that can demonstrate the benefit of "going green". Parkway planting and bioswales can also feature design elements such as pollinator plants that are both beneficial to the environment but also become teachable moments for residents and school children. MOBILITY AND COMPLETE STREETS MIG Santa Ana Green and Complete Public Realm (PS -3) 4 25M-40