Resilience
According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, every $1 not invested in disaster resilience today can cost communities up to $33 in lost future economic activity.
The Issue
New York and New Jersey are at the center of a highly vulnerable region to the impacts of climate change. From extreme rainfall, hurricanes, sea level rise, and extreme heat — the region is already experiencing more frequent and intense climate threats.
Flooding is the most common climate-related hazard across New York and New Jersey, impacting every single county in both state over the last decade.
According to the Fifth National Climate Assessment, our region is experiencing, and projected to continue experiencing, the highest rate of increased rainfall in the nation. Extreme changes in temperature are present and noticeable. In fact, both states have warmed more rapidly than the national average.
And yet, we are still underprepared for how to deal with these impacts.
Our Approach
We launched the Rise to Resilience Coalition. Since the launch in 2020, the Rise to Resilience Coalition has moved policy at every level of government. We continue to call for bold, inclusive, community- and evidence-based action from policymakers at every level of government. We’re building a movement to make it happen. Join us.
We are developing climate resilience plans in high-flood risk communities.
Flushing, Queens: Receiving much of the stormwater from surrounding neighborhoods and highways, Flushing Meadows Corona Park is one of the most frequently flooded parks in New York City. Waterfront Alliance is leading a study that will provide recommendations for ways to reduce flooding and adapt the park to future climate challenges like sea-level rise, increased precipitation, and extreme heat. Learn more here.
Coney Island, Brooklyn: In a coastal storm, the edge of Coney Island Creek is a weak point in Coney Island’s flood protection. Waterfront Alliance and Coney Island Beautification Project are working to develop a set of goals and strategies for waterfront improvements along Coney Island Creek. Learn more here.
New Report for Working with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Few agencies have more profoundly shaped our physical world than the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). In the face of increasing climate challenges, the USACE plays a pivotal role in implementing large-scale climate resilience projects. To aid in this effort, the Waterfront Alliance is proud to share the Common Sense Guide to Working with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, offering a comprehensive resource for various stakeholders aiming to influence these critical projects.
Rise to Resilience Coalition Policy Priorities
The future of our communities, jobs, safety, health, infrastructure, and wildlife and natural habitats are at risk from flooding, extreme heat, and other impacts associated with the climate crisis. Check out the Rise to Resilience Coalition’s 2025 policy, planning, and funding recommendations for climate resilience across New York and New Jersey.
Climate Resilience Literacy Handbook
This handbook outlines a menu of climate solutions in order to increase awareness among neighborhood-level stakeholders and community members. The goal of this resource is to help create climate-informed communities that can weigh in on public planning processes and advocate for climate resilient infrastructure and projects.
