Measures to combat waterlogging aimed at rendering the Rivierenbuurt district Rainproof
The Rivierenbuurt neighbourhood in Amsterdam is one of the areas faced with waterlogging following extreme downpours, whereas during periods of drought its groundwater level may fall too low. For these reasons, the neighbourhood is being climate-proofed.
The project involves several measures. First of all, the sewer system will be replaced, as the sewer has subsided over the years. The current sewer system will be replaced by larger sewage drains featuring a higher discharge capacity. In addition to the main sewer, the drains discharging into this main sewer and the house connections will be replaced as well. Since all the roads will be broken up while this work is in progress, measures will concurrently be implemented to climate-proof and rain-proof the neighbourhood.
For example, proper water discharge into temporary storage locations will be taken into account when the roads are re-paved. In addition to water storage underneath the tramway tracks, the ambition is to also create temporary excess water collection facilities underneath the Jekerplein and Merwedeplein squares, and the green area in the President Kennedylaan. The water will subsequently infiltrate into the soil.
Sweco engineering consultants have developed the Climate Adaptive Street concept. Ideally, a climate-adaptive street is a street capable of storing, retaining, and discharging large volumes of water. Owners and stakeholders, supported by experts, are converting ideas into a street design focused on targeted considerations regarding water and greenery. In Amsterdam, the Puccini design method is specifically factored in. As a result, the streets will be adapted in accordance with the Amsterdam standards to either store rainwater during very extreme downpours or discharge excess water via the street surface.
Lessons learned from the project
- The application of the Rainproof solutions has provided insight into their practical applicability in urban environments: which solutions are applicable, and, quite importantly, which ones are supported by local residents?
- The project comprises the trial creation of water storage underneath tramway tracks. Considering the large number of tramway tracks in Amsterdam, the potential water storage capacity is substantial.
Contact person
André Dijkshoorn
Sweco Nederland
André.dijkshoorn@sweco.nl
06 - 55795285