Philadelphia Landcare Workforce Development

Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI) and related Ecological Landscape projects are prevalent in public and private development in Philadelphia. These types of landscape improvements are becoming design standards driven by Public Agencies in the City, led by the Philadelphia Water Department (PWD) and Philadelphia’s 2035 Comprehensive Plan. These design strategies aim to reduce the amount and impact of stormwater runoff, reduce the urban heat island effect, improve air quality, and mitigate other environmental impacts caused by dense urban development. These strategies are aimed at improving the quality of public and private spaces throughout the City of Philadelphia, and look to be a part of a resiliency plan as it relates to the changing climate.

 

There are a variety of factors that affect the success of GSI and Ecological Landscape projects in Philadelphia. This report specifically identifies and addresses the gap between demand for GSI projects and the existing workforce capabilities required to install and maintain these systems. This report is based largely on qualitative interviews with representatives from various public agencies, members of the landscape design community, local workforce training programs, and members of a diverse Landcare workforce in Philadelphia.