Community-Based Public–Private Partnerships as Mechanisms for Improved Efficiency in Green Stormwater Infrastructure Implementation

Abstract

Municipalities traditionally deliver stormwater infrastructure through a design–bid–build (DBB) model, in which planning, engineering design, and construction are executed sequentially and contracted separately. However, given the substantial investment required and the significant consequences of ineffective stormwater management systems, the public sector is prompted to seek alternative approaches to the delivery and maintenance of these assets. This study empirically assessed the community-based public–private partnership (CBP3) model for stormwater asset delivery and maintenance, as implemented in the Clean Water Partnership (CWP), focusing on its governance structure, management mechanisms, and socioeconomic outcomes. A qualitative approach was adopted to enable an in-depth examination of the model through participant perspectives and documented evidence. A thematic analytical method was employed to analyze data collected from 49 sources, including the published literature, technical reports, fact sheets, permits, contract documents, and news articles related to the CWP. In addition, semistructured interviews were conducted with nine principal actors directly involved in structuring the partnership and defining its milestones and performance objectives. Findings show that the CBP3 model enables a collaborative, performance-driven governance structure that integrates public agencies, private partners, third-party auditors, and community stakeholders. The model demonstrates enhanced implementation efficiency, strong alignment with regulatory objectives, and significant socioeconomic benefits, including high levels of participation by local and minority businesses. This positions CBP3 as an effective and scalable framework for delivering resilient, equitable, and community-centered green stormwater infrastructure (GSI) assets.