Wallaga University
College of Engineering and Technology
Course outline
Urban and Regional Planning Program Year III Semester II
Wallaga University
Degree Program (s) [Link]. in Urban Planning and Design
Instructor Name Bonsa T (MSc.)
Academic Year 2025/2026
Course Numbers UPD 3072
Course Title Urban Green Infrastructure Planning and Management
Pre-requisites None
Status of Course Compulsory
Semester II
Credit Hours 2
ECTS 4
Working Hours (per Lectures Tutorials Studio & Total
week) & Workshop ome Working Hours
Seminars Practice Study
3 hrs 1hrs 0hrs 1hr 8hrs
Attendance 85%
Requirements
Teaching & Learning Lecture, group and individual work, presentation, reading assignment, site
Methods visit and guest lecture.
Course Description
Green infrastructure planning relies on a systems-based approach to enhance ecological performance
while delivering essential ecosystem services to human communities. This course introduces students
to the principles, theories, and practical applications of green infrastructure planning across multiple
scales, including site, neighborhood, city, and regional levels. Special emphasis is placed on the role
of green infrastructure in improving hydrological processes and riparian corridors as part of integrated
green space planning for recreational and cultural purposes. The course examines a broad range of
interconnected systems, such as water, transportation, and food networks. Through case study analysis,
students will explore green infrastructure projects at both national and international levels, focusing on
planning, policy, and implementation strategies.
Course objectives
Upon completion of this course the students will be able to:
- Understand the concept of urban green infrastructure and urban biodiversity and the
importance
- Conceptually plan a green infrastructure system; evaluate policies; and develop
implementation strategies.
- Incorporate multiple spatial scales thinking for understanding ecological systems and
when applying them to planning problems.
- Understand the economic impacts and benefits of multi- functional green infrastructure
planning
Course Contents
1) Introduction to urban green infrastructure
2) Open space development during urbanization
3) Urban Biodiversity
4) Importance of urban green infrastructure
5) Components of urban green infrastructure
6) Threats to urban green infrastructure
7) The necessity of laws and regulations for securing urban green infrastructure
8) Planning and designing urban green infrastructure and greenspaces
9) Implementation, maintenance and repairing of urban green infrastructure and greenspaces
10) Urban Green Infrastructure case studies (Africa and European Cities)
Mode of Delivery Face-To-Face Learning
Readings and Jen Lockard, 2010. Cities Safer by Design Guidance and
Reference materials Examples to Promote Traffic Safety through Urban and Street Design
Version 1.0
Stephen Ezell, January 2010. Intelligent Transportation Systems
Mark A. & McMahon, Edward T. (2006). Green Infrastructure:
linking landscapes and communities.
"The Value of Green Infrastructure: A Guide to Recognizing Its
Economic, Environmental and Social Benefits" (PDF). Chicago, IL:
Center for Neighborhood Technology. 21 January 2011.
"Green Infrastructure Design and Implementation". EPA. 2016-02-23.
Design manuals published by state and local agencies.
City of Nashville & Davidson County (2009). "Green
Infrastructure Design"
Assessment/Evaluation 50% assessment
& 50% final exam
Grading System
Site analysis checklist for Urban Green Infrastructure
1. Physical & Natural Features (The "Green" Layer)
Topography: Identify high/low points. Where does water naturally pool?
Soil Quality: Is the soil permeable (sandy) or compact (clay)? This determines if you
can use rain gardens.
Existing Vegetation: Map all mature trees. Can they be preserved or integrated into
a green corridor?
Microclimate: Identify "Heat Islands" (large asphalt/concrete areas) that need cooling
vegetation.
2. Hydrology & Utilities (The "Blue" Layer)
Catchment Areas: Where is the runoff coming from (roofs, roads, parking)?
Drainage Patterns: Map the existing storm-drain locations. Can they be bypassed
with natural filtration?
Water Table: Is the groundwater high? (If so, deep infiltration basins might not work).
Underground Utilities: Map gas, water, and fiber-optic lines to avoid root interference.
3. Built Environment & Connectivity
Surrounding Land Use: Is the site near residential, industrial, or commercial zones?
Building Heights: Map shadows cast by adjacent buildings (affects plant growth).
Circulation: Identify primary pedestrian and bike paths. Can these
become greenways?
4. Legal & Social Context
Zoning & Setbacks: What are the legal limits for building heights or green space
percentages?
Demographics: Who lives nearby? (e.g., Do you need more playgrounds for kids
or quiet paths for seniors?)
Historical Context: Are there heritage sites or "sacred" trees that must be respected?
5. Synthesis
SWOT Analysis: Summarize the site's Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and
Threats.