By: Connor Cox

The Depaving Method of Tactical Urbanism

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Depaving is the removal of unnecessary pavement in urban areas to create green areas Where is depaving happening?

What is Depaving?

Most forms of tactical urbanism can be implemented sporadically; however, depaving must done in a more delicate manner. Other forms of implementationTemporary seatingOutdoor diningPublic gardensStreet landscaping

Tactical Urbanism & Depaving

The History of DepavingDepave began in 2007 as a small organization in Portland, OR attempting to revitalize local neighborhoods.Minimize stormwater pollutionRemove unnecessary pavement

The organization became so successful they began to receive grants from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality Patagonia, and Multnomah Soil and Water Districts.

What is stormwater?Contaminants?Polluting the water systemMajor government expenditure

Stormwater

Increasing area for other modes of transportationBy removing unnecessary pavement, the extra space can be used for sidewalks and bike lanes.

Pedestrian safety

Curb bump outs have increased safety for pedestrians by shortening the distance of the crosswalk and force drivers to slow down.

There are also challenges for depavement in terms of long-term changes

Construction on major streets can cause unnecessary congestion

These changes can make future expansion difficult if not impossible

Government spending is required to make long-term changes to roadways

Challenges for Depavement

Partnerships

An interesting example of depavement came when the Urban Forrest Stewardship Network partnered with Depave Paradise to transform a parking lot to a green area

What will it take for the continued development of Depaving?AdvocacyMarketing/AdvertisingTactical Urbanism

The Future of Depaving