The Transductive Nature of Intra-Urban Networks and Implications for Urban Hydrology

Abstract:

As urban populations continue to grow, the resulting stresses on natural systems will persistently challenge urban residents and managers. Management tools incorporating both human and natural processes are a fundamental part of forging sustainable solutions to these challenges. While cities are in some ways complex, they also are constructed following relatively consistent methods and norms, particularly in the post-WWII period of rapid urban growth. This regularity can provide insights into the function of urban systems. Using Pittsburgh, PA, the influence of the road network on sewer network characteristics and resulting sewer hydrology is demonstrated. As sewers generally follow road right of ways to simplify access, urban drainage networks inherit extremely dense and rectilinear forms, distinct from most drainage networks. These forms focus flows and dictate patterns of cross-connections between human and hydrologic systems. With improved understanding of resulting patterns, designs for more sustainable, next-generation infrastructure can be more effectively implemented.