Our Work

Developing GI for mission-driven properties in San Francisco

West Coast

SFPUC’s Green Infrastructure Grant Program

During heavy storms, San Francisco’s combined sewer system can overflow, causing flooding and sending polluted runoff into the San Francisco Bay. To help reduce the risk of this, Greenprint works with community benefit organizations to build green infrastructure on their properties. Funded by the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission’s Green Infrastructure Grant Program, these projects capture stormwater on-site, reducing the risk of sewer overflows and untreated sewage reaching the bay. They also enhance groundwater recharge, a critical benefit in a state facing water shortages and drought.

Greenprint identifies mission-driven properties, such as schools and churches, and assesses their green infrastructure potential. We engage property owners about the grant program, conduct feasibility analyses and develop site-specific concept designs. We then work with owners to finalize plans and complete grant applications.

We have completed or are advancing five projects that improve stormwater management. Greenprint designs each project to reflect how people use the space, whether by adding green areas, supporting outdoor learning or providing other community benefits. We also help educate and engage site users through signage, workshops and curriculum support.

BACK TO OUR WORK

Project Showcase: St. Anne Church and School

The GI project at St. Anne focused on managing stormwater and transforming the schoolyard into a green space that provides educational opportunities for students. The project involved replacing asphalt and concrete with rain gardens, permeable pavement and native landscaping. Downspouts were disconnected and redirected to these GI features, allowing stormwater to be managed on-site. The permeable pavement not only helps with stormwater management but also provides space for students to play and eat lunch.

Managing 1.7 acres of impervious area with GI

Greenprint worked closely with the school’s principal and teachers, forming a stakeholder group that was interested in how the project could beautify the campus and integrate GI into the curriculum. We held a teacher workshop to introduce stormwater management and GI concepts and provided resources to help incorporate these topics into classrooms. We also organized a design workshop where 4th-8th grade students learned about sewer systems, San Francisco’s stormwater challenges and how GI can help reduce the risk of flooding. The students also had the opportunity to choose the native plants they wanted to see in the schoolyard.

This project showcases how GI can support both environmental sustainability and educational enrichment, making it a valuable addition to schoolyards.

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Photos: SFPUC

Developing GI for mission-driven properties in San Francisco

SFPUC’s Green Infrastructure Grant Program

Project Details

Project Showcase: St. Anne Church and School