rochester, new york
Protection of Fresh Water Resources and Coastlines
The Durand Eastman Master Plan protect, improve and promote our beaches and coastlines through the Smart Sponge Plus
The Durand Eastman Park Beach Master Plan is the first step in a long-term, comprehensive, multi-faced planning process with the goal of safely and efficiently integrating the inherent natural resources of Lake Ontario with the recreational needs of the community. Part of this plan envisions the delivery of beach and lakeside recreational opportunities to all citizens by providing a safe and enjoyable environment while preserving the pre-eminent and unique natural resources of Lake Ontario. The two westernmost tributaries are the focus of water quality and diversion treatment evaluations because they are located closest to the proposed bathing beach alternative locations. Other tributaries and storm sewer outfalls are shown in the report. For this reason, Durand beach will continue to operate under a strict monitoring plan. The conditions of swimming beach operation will continue to be enforced by the City and the Monroe County Department of Health.
Alternatives to address water quality issues include a potential stormwater treatment method: the Smart Sponge Plus filter media. Smart Sponge Plus consists of polymer plastic filter material treated with an organosilane derivative that has been widely used in antibacterial applications. The antimicrobial agent is registered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for a variety of applications and has a proven performance record specifically in cases where a reduction in harmful bacterial counts in stormwater runoff is desired.
Promote Low-Carbon Energy Generation and Consumption
City of Rochester's vehicle fleet running with alternative fuels
The City of Rochester has increased its City's vehicle green fleet. It is currently including 169 capable running on E-85, 4 vehicles capable of running on Bio Diesel, 29 hybrid vehicles (gas/electric), 5 CNG powered vehicles, 9 electric powered vehicles, and 16 propane powered vehicles. 71 Diesel vehicles (garbage and dump trucks) have diesel particulate filters which allow them to be powered by ultra low sulfur diesel fuel. These include garbage trucks and dump trucks. However, alternative fuels are not currently available.
A Green Fuel Station is currently under development to replace the current conventional fuel station for City vehicles. This station will include E-85, biodiesel, compressed natural gas and potentially could be expanded to include additional alternative fuels.
Climate Action Plan and greenhouse gas inventory on the way …
The City of Rochester is planning the measurement of their emissions through a City greenhouse gas inventory and action planning for greenhouse gas emissions with a City of Rochester Climate Action Plan that will include a target for emissions reduction. Meanwhile, actions have been taken in this direction, such as audits of municipal facilities to identify opportunities for energy reduction and energy efficiency upgrades at municipal facilities, including lighting, HVAC and building envelope. The City is planning to install a photovoltaic energy system at the Arnett Branch Library and a geothermal energy system at Riverside Cemetery.
Adopt Green Land Use and Building Design
City of Rochester envisions a 20-years Project Green
The Project Green of the City of Rochester is a bold plan that would change the look and feel of the City by replacing vacant properties with vast swaths of green space. Over the next 20 years, more than three dozen city blocks will be converted into a "green infrastructure" of open space that can be used for such purposes as community gardens, urban farms, parks and renewable-energy generating facilities. These green spaces will be connected by a network of pedestrian- and bicycle-friendly "green corridors" that will further enhance Rochester's exceptional quality of life. Other elements of Project Green include the installation of roof-top gardens, historic preservation, focused investment and strategic development of the city's downtown and waterways.http://www.cityofrochester.gov/article.aspx?id=8589941695
Conversion Urban Exemption Program for Center City Living
The City of Rochester has developed a program to encourage the conversion of underutilized office, retail, manufacturing and warehouse buildings to residential use. Through tax abatement, this working well program has saved several historic buildings downtown and applies a low impact and high density urban planning.
http://www.cityofrochester.gov/article.aspx?id=8589935835
Encourage Green Economic Development
Energy Efficiency Revolving Loan Fund to support green technology, research and innovation
This new program is in process as part of the City of Rochester's Energy and Efficiency Strategy using EECBG funds. Eligible activities would include installation of energy efficient lighting, upgrades to cooling or heating facilities, ground and air source heat pumps, window and door replacement and or reduction, and the design of new buildings to include energy efficient heating, lighting and ventilation.
Project to connect two trails – Highland Park-Canalway Trail Project
Two trails run through miles and miles of land in Rochester: the Genesee Riverway Trail (GRT) and the Erie Canalway Trail. The City of Rochester has the project to connect their Highland Park to both of them, providing a safe pedestrian and bicycle route to the park and enhancing the regional trail system.
The Genesee Riverway Trail (GRT) is an off-road trail for walking, running and bicycling along the Genesee River. It extends through the scenic, historic and cultural heart of Rochester, from the Erie Canal to downtown and Lake Ontario. It is marked with a system of wayfinding and interpretive signs to encourage and guide public use. It is designated National Recreation Trail.
Contact person: mroczekj@cityofrochester.gov
http://www.cityofrochester.gov/article.aspx?id=8589939625
http://www.cityofrochester.gov/article.aspx?id=8589936619