2D Or Not 2D: That Is the Question

This case study demonstrates the benefit of implementing a small 2D domain within an existing 1D InfoWorks ICM model to optimize the size and location of a planned storage facility and reduce overland flooding in a dense suburban neighborhood in the City of Toronto. Recent flooding imagery captured in 2018 and 2020 showed significant flooding in Woodborough Park and visible damage to facilities. The project team planned and designed drainage and storage mitigations by building a small-scale 2D surface model of the park and surrounding catchment area (39 hectares) within the larger 1D InfoWorks ICM model being used to plan and design the Fairbank Storm Trunk Sewer System Project. This approach enabled the designers to optimize the size of the storage facility and realize a 35% reduction in construction costs. We’ll present the approach used to develop the model, and there will be a discussion on what considerations should be given before adopting this approach to ensure the maximum benefit to the project.