Development of Eco-Park in flood prone areas using green technologies

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The destruction of urban areas has caused environmental, social and economic problems. One of these areas was identified in the Municipality of Humacao, on the east coast of Puerto Rico. This land is vast and unused, Fulladosa farm, located in the urban area of the Municipality of Humacao. It is suggested to create an eco-park in this place to restore this green space and help improve the environment. METHODS: The collection of information through public documents offered information related to the study area. Through a physical spatial analysis, the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of the study area could be obtained. This technique made it possible to identify areas with development potential to create an eco-park. Management strategies were developed for the development of the ecopark. Sustainable aspects were analysed to assess the viability of establishing an ecopark on the Fulladosa farm. FINDINGS: The Fulladosa farm, located on Almodóvar Final Street in Barrio Cataño, has a high-density residential rating. According to the joint regulation, the use of parks in classified plots as high-density housing is not allowed. Therefore, a location query must be used to submit the project to the Licensing and Approval Office. Finally, it was found that the study area is prone to flooding. Flood insurance is also required, and the municipality must obtain the elevation certification required by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. CONCLUSION: The creation of this eco-park can provide environmental education, community interaction and recreational spaces. Completion of this project will generally provide environmental, social and economic benefits to the community.