What benefit would this strategy provide to the owner?

The project landscape architect suggests reducing the area planned for surface parking and replacing it with additional vegetated space.

What benefit would this strategy provide to the owner?
A . Increases the rainwater infiltration capacity
B . Decreases the amount of bicycle parking that must be provided
C . Increases the overall SR (solar reflectance) of the hardscape area
D . Decreases the required amount of on-street parking that must be provided

Answer: A

Explanation:

Reducing the area planned for surface parking and replacing it with additional vegetated space can provide several benefits to the owner, such as:

Decreasing the amount of bicycle parking that must be provided, since there will be less demand for parking spaces for cyclists.

Increasing the overall SR (solar reflectance) of the hardscape area, which can reduce the cooling load and energy consumption of the building.

Decreasing the required amount of on-street parking that must be provided, since there will be less demand for parking spaces for cars.

However, one of the most significant benefits of this strategy is increasing the rainwater infiltration capacity, which can improve the water quality and quantity in the stormwater system. According to a study by Biondolilo1, integrating green space into parking lots can decrease stormwater runoff, mitigate the heat island effect, store carbon, improve air quality and may have social benefits as well. The study estimated that converting 30% of Manhattan’s parking into green space would decrease runoff and pollutants from parking lots1. Therefore, this strategy can help reduce water demand and environmental impact in arid climates.

Reference: How Eliminating Parking Minimums Actually Makes Cities Better

Analyzing the benefits of reducing parking: improving public transportation to reduce parking demand and increase space for green infrastructure in Manhattan, Kansas

Benefits of Urban Vegetation and Green Spaces – BeautyHarmonyLife Reduce Urban Heat Island Effect | Green Infrastructure | US EPA