The Perfect Storm of Atlanta's Peoplestown Community

The core downtown Atlanta area, constructed prior to 1915, continues to utilize a combined sewer system. In the past 100 years, Atlanta has seen an enormous amount of growth downtown. This growth has reduced pervious green spaces and transformed them into streets, skyscrapers, parking and other structures. Under the ground surface, much of the original aging infrastructure remained but was rehabilitated and expanded to support the growth above ground. While capable of handling many rain events, Atlanta has seen what were once considered extreme storms becoming more common. Utilizing an integrated catchment model and comprehensive Sewer System Evaluation Survey (SSES) data, the City developed solutions that include a mix of green and grey infrastructure to protect the residents of Atlanta.