Partnership for Healthy Homes

Urban Sustainability Solutions (USS) recently participated in a Partnership for Healthy Homes Stormwater tour in Durham, focused on identifying opportunities to reduce flooding, protect housing foundations, and implement equitable, green stormwater solutions.

The tour was a collaborative effort between Habitat for Humanity of Durham, Urban Sustainability Solutions, Demetrius Thompson of Bullcity Landscaping and Merrick-Moore Community Development Corporation (CDC), with coordination led by Merrick-Moore Executive Director Bonita Green and Vanessa Mason Evans.

The goal of the tour was to survey five residential sites across Durham and begin developing stormwater design plans that incorporate multi-functional green infrastructure. These plans aim to address long-standing drainage challenges while improving property resilience and environmental health.

Durham Habitat has secured grant funding through Duke University to help cover the cost of installing stormwater control measures on low-income homeowners’ properties. Proposed solutions include rain gardens, cisterns, swales, gutter improvements, and roof work—all tailored to each site’s specific conditions.

USS Founder Michael Dupree led the tour, guiding partners through each site to identify problem areas and recommend solutions. Many of the homes visited showed signs of minor to severe foundation cracking, persistent flooding, erosion, or pooling water after heavy rains, underscoring the urgent need for targeted stormwater interventions.

We hope this collaborative effort and shared commitment to housing stability, environmental justice, and climate resilience can help those most vulnerable. Urban Sustainability Solutions is proud to work alongside Habitat for Humanity of Durham, Merrick-Moore CDC, and Bullcity Landscaping to turn stormwater challenges into opportunities for stronger, healthier neighborhoods.