A Site Scale Integrated Decision Support Tool for Urban Stormwater Management

The objective of this research is to develop of a planning-level, site scale integrated decision support tool (site scale i-DST) for grey and green stormwater infrastructure. The site scale i-DST has several component modules integrated into a single tool. The component modules include runoff estimation module, water quality module, BMP cost module, and an optimization module. Several of the more complex stormwater tools require expertise to build and operate. The site scale i-DST is built on accessible platform (Microsoft Excel VBA) and can be operated with a minimum skillset. It is based on readily available data and provides a comparative analysis among various scenarios for BMP selection, sizing, cost, and performance. Site scale i-DST is fully automated optimization tool that selects BMPs based on input data such as quality and quantity of stormwater, target water quality, runoff reduction requirements, and technical and economic criteria. It was demonstrated through scenario evaluation that the tool recommended cost effective BMPs. The tool is flexible allowing user interaction through a graphical user interface. Users can change BMP selection criteria and weights, include or exclude BMP types from the selection process depending on site specific criteria. The tool includes a hydrologic module for simulation of runoff on event and continuous basis. The site scale i-DST is intended for designers, regulators, and municipalities for quick analysis of scenarios involving the interaction of several factors. The output includes most effective BMP(s) with respect to the technical and economic criteria which meets target water quality and flow reduction requirements.