The flood control reservoir on the Wilga river in Garwolin to protect its peri-urban open space and use it as a recreation and leisure area.
Garwolin is situated on the Wilga River, which is unregulated outside the city borders. A valuable peri-urban open area is part of the natural ecosystem around the river. Following the severe flood damage in 2005, the municipality undertook several investments and improvements to protect the city and its surroundings. One of the most notable developments in recent years has been the flood control reservoir and tourism route along the Wilga River.
The reservoir not only reduces the cost of potential city damage (flooding), but it also allows for greater conservation of the nearby suburban habitat. Simultaneously, that region diversifies the suburban ecosystem while also providing recreational opportunities. The proximity to the Garwolin border protects PUOS from future urban growth, as well as from the territory of the neighboring commune.
The main beneficiary of this investment is the city of Garwolin because of significant reduction of costs related to the consequences of floods. The city was able to finish the investment after a long and fair procedure of purchasing all the property from private owners. In respect to the ecosystem services provided by the reservoir, the city implements its own "green" strategy in the region, promoting recreational and sports activities. As a result of the increased value of the land, enhanced quality of life, and more accessibility to natural spaces, local residents benefit from the investment as well.
Resources needed
The funding includes non-returnable subsidy of 3,897,079 PLN (approx. 821,000 EUR) and low-interest loan of 3,897,080 PLN (approx. 820,530 EUR). Total cost: 9,303,337 PLN (approx. 1,958,820 EUR). In terms of human resources between 15 and 20 city officials and between 100 and 120 contractors.
Evidence of success
• Finalised huge investment – successful in planning and fundraising of over
10,000,000 PLN (approx. 2,105,500 EUR)
• Accomplished long-term process of land purchase – 9 years
• No costs of flood damage removal after 2018
• Reconciling the interest of multiple stakeholders – safety of the city, protection of nature, leisure and access to green areas for inhabitants
Potential for learning or transfer
The GP shows that it is possible to solve key problems (flooding) and at the same time get improvement on a protection of PUOS (protect natural areas, strengthen the influence of city authorities on open areas, construction of routes connecting the city with the open area, making the area available to residents).
Local authorities’ acknowledgment to the value of open spaces and their sustainability is crucial for the resilient development of cities. In the long run, such an approach has positive impact not only on the quality of life, but also on the municipality budget.
A good project/investment should be beneficial for as many stakeholders as possible, especially inhabitants. The city authorities should consider the costs and benefits for residents to ensure public support to the investment.
Respectful engagement with private owners was critical. It enabled better social support for costly expenditures. Despite its length, this enables the municipality to conform to the plan.
Tags: Green infrastructure, Natural disasters, Water
