An urban park serves as a model for green infrastructure. The Commons at Cortex Innovation Community, St. Louis, MO The development of the Cortex Commons and streetscapes is to serve as a blueprint for the development of the district on the whole. Low impact development strategies are emphasized in the design, particularly green stormwater infrastructure. The design team worked to secure match funding through the MSD Green Infrastructure Early Action Projects program to incorporate bioretention areas, rain gardens, curb inlets, and underground stormwater storage. These elements are prominently featured in the landscape and, through signage, provide educational opportunities as well.
Far too often, green infrastructure is not much more inviting or accessible than the conventional infrastructure it replaced. Areas of the Commons are designed to specifically encourage the enjoyment of rain gardens and other best management practices, while still providing important infrastructure functions.