A. Kaushal, M.L. Museru, K. Opare, M. Karimi, R. Nazari
University of Alabama at Birmingham,
United States
Keywords: urban rivers, water pollution, surface run-offs, sustainable development, resiliency, community participation
Summary:
This project addresses the complex challenges of rapid urbanization along Village Creek in Birmingham, Alabama, where historical industrial activities have contributed to significant environmental and social issues. The concentration of light and heavy industries along the river since the early 20th century has led to surface and groundwater pollution, disproportionately affecting minority and low-income communities due to racially and financially influenced urban development. With approximately 80% of the city lying in a flood-prone zone, flash floods serve as non-point sources of pollution, and the presence of non-NPL Superfund and Brownfield sites around Village Creek further increases the overall concentration of pollutants entering the river due to surface run-off. The transportation of pollutants (such as heavy metals) exacerbates communities' vulnerability to flash flooding and pollution exposures. Thus, this study aims to quantify water pollution by analyzing sediment movement, identifying flood risk zones, and assigning risk levels to prioritize exposure sites for mitigation. This project also aims to inform and educate the general public about the type of pollutants in the area, risk zones, potential solutions to minimize/ avoid exposure, and funding sources, as well as promote mitigation strategies. Project outcomes will include a Vulnerability Hazard (V-H) map, an informative website, and the promotion of modified Low Impact Developments (LIDs) and green infrastructures (GIs) designs (like floating gardens and pollution-absorbing rain gardens) and existing funding sources. The study aims to enhance resiliency to flash flooding, reduce pollution, inform mitigation strategies, highlight vulnerable communities, and promote social and environmental justice in these high-risk areas to improve the overall quality of life for communities along Village Creek.