Bioretention cells
Shallow depressions comprised of a drain tile bedded in gravel, a soil and compost mix above the gravel, and native shrubs and trees planted on the surface.
Bioswales
Create subsurface and plant filtration systems in a neighborhood setting. An alternative to storm sewers.
Brownstones
A building faced with a reddish-brown sandstone.
Charrette
Used to describe all manner of events where a group of people gathers to talk about a design or development issue.
Conservation Design
A new approach to storm water management that addresses the negative impacts of storm water runoff and turns them into a positive attribute. Also referred to as low impact development.
Infill
Buildings constructed to occupy the space between existing ones.
Neotraditional Perspective
A new movement in urban growth that involves a return to early planning principles to avoid too much growth too fast.
New Urbanism
A development strategy that encourages smart managed growth; sustainable green development; and reduced traffic.
Rain Gardens
Small perennial gardens that use native vegetation to filter runoff from roofs, driveways, and patios.
“Third places”
A series of places where people connect with their community.
Topography
The arrangement of the natural and artificial physical features of an area.
Walkable Neighborhoods
A place where people live within walking distance to most places they want or need to go or be including work, school, retail and parks. Safe, accessible areas with a sense of place.
