In partnership with the Trust for Public Lands (TPL), WHALE is creating a Greenprint of New Bedford. A Greenprint is a map of places that matter to a community, and creating one starts with community input and leads to state-of-the-art computer models and maps developed using Geographic Information System (GIS) software.
The final interactive map will help New Bedford make informed decisions about how to grow while preserving the character, environment and quality of life in the city. Based on the observations, recollecctions and local knowledge of the city’s residents, the interactive map will identify:
- Historical and Cultural assets
- Opportunities for expanded Housing
- Opportunities for Open Space, Parks and Public Art
- Areas at risk from sea level rise and rising temperatures
The project launched in Fall, 2022 with a survey to New Bedford residents, as well as rigorous community outreach and conversation. It is anticipated that the Greenprint and Index will be completed by the end of 2023.
The Places that Matter: New Bedford project is the second Greenmapping project in the USA and is funded by the 1772 Foundation, who’s mission is to ensure the safe passage of our historic assets to future generations. The Historic Macon Foundation in Macon, Georgia and TPL recently completed a “Saving Places Index,” which connects Macon-Bibb County, GA residents to wonderful places to live, work, and play in their own backyard. To get an idea of what a Greenmapping project can achieve, visit the Macon, GA “Saving Places Index” website, which includes images, interactive maps, and descriptive narratives.
