ENGINEER
The strain of growth: How new development pressures aging infrastructure and what can be done
Inadequate systems not only affect water quality and availability but also threaten long-term sustain- ability in growing communities. Failing to address these stresses can have serious consequences. From service disruptions and road closures to environmental degradation and public health risks, deteriorating infrastructure can erode community trust and hinder economic development. Poor infrastructure also discour- ages private investment and complicates emergency response during disasters. To support sustainable growth, communities must plan ahead and invest wisely. Comprehensive in- frastructure assessments should be integrated into the development ap- proval process. This allows cities to understand how proposed projects will impact existing systems and what upgrades may be necessary. Collaborative solutions, such as public-private partnerships, can be particularly effective. Developers may contribute to funding or con- structing infrastructure improve- ments that directly benefit their projects. This approach not only offsets public costs but also aligns private investment with long-term public needs. Municipalities must also pri- oritize strategic investment in modernizing critical infrastruc- ture. In this regard, recent federal initiatives have created unprec- edented opportunities. The $1.2 trillion Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, signed in November 2021, represents a historic investment in the nation’s transportation, water, broadband, energy, and climate resilience systems. Similarly, the $1.9trillionAmericanRescuePlan, signed in March 2021, provided significant funding to state and lo - cal governments, some of which is being directed toward water, sewer, and stormwater infrastructure up- grades. These programs offer vital support for communities looking to strengthen their foundations and accommodate future growth. At the same time, embrac- ing green infrastructure such as bioswales, permeable pavement, green roofs, and rain gardens can significantly ease the burden on stormwater systems while im- proving environmental resilience. Ting Chang, PE, LEED AP, is a senior project manager in the civil engi- neering department at TFMoran Inc., Bedford N.H. FOR FULL STORY VISIT NEREJ.COM
neighborhoods and urban centers, are struggling to keep up. Origi- nally constructed to serve smaller populations,manyofthesesystems now face the burden of supporting dense housing developments, shopping centers, and business parks. Overloaded sewer lines can result in backups, flooding, and environmental hazards, especially during heavy rainfall. A growing concern tied to both new development and climate change is stormwater manage- ment. As more land is covered by impervious surfaces such as roads, parking lots, and rooftops, less rain- water is absorbed naturally into the
ground. This significantly increas - es surface runoff, overwhelming stormwater infrastructure, much of which is outdated or undersized. With extreme weather events be- coming more frequent and severe, the risk of flash flooding, erosion, and water pollution is rising. Stormwater systems originally designed for past climate norms are now incapable of managing today’s intense rainfall patterns, putting both property and public safety at risk. Water infrastructure, similarly, is challenged by increased demand, aging pipes, and the need for modernized treatment facilities.
development. One of the most visibly affected areas is transportation infrastruc- ture. Roads, highways, and bridges, many of which were built decades ago, are experiencing higher vol- umes of traffic from both residents and commercial activity. The added load leads to faster wear and tear, increased congestion, and a greater need for ongoing maintenance. In areas where infrastructure investment has lagged, the risk of deterioration and even failure becomes more pronounced. Underground, the situation is often more critical. Sewer and water systems, particularly in older
Ting Chang TFMoran Inc.
As cities and communities continue to expand with new residential and commercial de- velopment, the strain on aging in- frastructure becomes increasingly evident. While new construction brings economic growth, housing opportunities, and increased tax revenue, it also places additional pressure on systems that, in many cases, were not designed to support the rapid pace or scale of today’s
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