• Field Survey/Data Collection
• Coastal Analysis
• Alternative Formulation and Evaluation
• Construction Cost Estimates
• Design Plans
• Regulatory Coordination
• Meetings with Stakeholders
Challenge
Significant storms at high water levels have eroded the shoreline, bluff slope, damaged the existing vegetation, and threated the recreational use of the shoreline, existing City of Green Bay infrastructure and the use of the parking lot at the north end of the property.
Solution
The City of Green Bay, along with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR), commissioned a Living Shoreline project, which will protect the shoreline (2,300 feet long), offer recreational opportunities, and provide a continuous public access path at the toe of the bluff slope. The main goal of the project is to restore the habitat (in-water and terrestrial). The parking lot will be reconfigured and expanded.
GZA is the lead consultant for the Coastal and Geotechnical design, working on alternatives that will be incorporated in the site Master Plan. GZA is preparing plans and specifications for contractor bidding. Services provided included site survey, correction of soil borings, Coastal and Geotechnical analyses, and preparation of plans. The project includes a protected kayak/canoe launch.
The Living Shoreline design concept uses “green” design elements (native vegetation in combination with low-crested rock sills and imported fill) to stabilize the shoreline. Living shorelines provide numerous habitat benefits and protect of shorelines from waves and storms. The project includes small rock sills, sand fill, topsoil, bluff slope stabilization and revegetation with native plants, tree clearing and removal, and invasive species control, along with a near-shore stone reef for fish spawning. GZA uses its Design with Nature Studio practice to work together with Coastal and Geotechnical engineers on this project. The design is underway, and it is anticipated that the project will be constructed in early 2026.
Benefit
The GZA team is carefully planning and designing the proposed improvements providing shoreline protection, public access, infrastructure protection and habitat areas, using our great practical experience with this type of project.