Urban planning is a necessary part of any building endeavor, as countless approvals and permits need to be arranged before any work can begin. Every aspect of the surroundings needs to be considered, including public parks, bodies of water, and established buildings. Each of these will play a role in deciding what poses a risk to the plan and how each will be mitigated.

Flood risk is not to be downplayed as it can affect much of the population where they're already living. According to The World Bank, as many as one in four people worldwide reside in a flood risk zone. Planning for the worst-case scenario is necessary, as it can prevent the loss of life before a flood can become an issue. Below are three ways a commercial landscape architect can address this issue.

1. Avoid Construction on Wetlands

The easiest way to prevent flooding is to avoid developing on known floodplains. Urban planning professionals try to find areas sitting at a higher elevation to prevent damage to new developments. Keeping individuals safe is always the basis of concern when considering flood risk, and avoiding that risk entirely is the easiest way to make it possible.

2. Replace Surfaces With Permeable Options

Many surfaces, such as asphalt and concrete, are inherently impermeable, meaning water has to run off and be collected by a drainage system. This allows backups and stoppages to occur, making flooding more likely. Using permeable surfaces like grass and gardens in combination with specialized paving materials allows water to flow directly to the water table. This takes advantage of natural drainage without much additional construction.

3. Create Basins to Retain Rainwater

Landscape architects can design lower elevation areas to collect water. This prevents the water from flooding in developed areas at higher elevations. The water can then be released to a natural drainage point when possible, or it can be treated and used as drinking water if the proper infrastructure is in place.

Each of these strategies is used by landscape architects worldwide to ensure nearby residents' safety. These can each be implemented in the urban planning process of William Guman & Associates Ltd in the Southern Colorado region. Contact the landscaping architects Colorado Springs relies on with planning and design to schedule an informational meeting.