Arup selected to conduct Rhode Island Coastal Resilience Study

This initiative stems from the 2024 passage of Act on Coasts legislation by the General Assembly, which mandates the development of a statewide plan to assess community vulnerabilities, recommend mitigation strategies along ocean and riverine coasts, and identify financing strategies to implement resiliency strategies. The study will address concerns including sea level rise, increased storm frequency and precipitation, warming air and water temperatures, and changing biodiversity. Arup was selected following a competitive public bidding process led by the Infrastructure Bank and RIDEM. Arup subcontracted experts on this project include Fuss & O’Neil, CIVIC, and Camoin Associates.

William Fazioli, Executive Director at Rhode Island Infrastructure Bank, said, “From more frequent floods and overwhelmed stormwater systems, to accelerating coastal erosion, Rhode Island’s communities are already feeling the impacts of climate change. This new comprehensive coastal resilience study to be conducted by Arup will give us detailed insights into vulnerable municipal infrastructure, and options to improve resilience. We look forward to the results of this study, which will complement our successful Municipal Resilience Program that has already provided $24 million to cities and towns across the state to invest in resilient infrastructure solutions. This is another piece of the puzzle as we work together to build a more Resilient Rhody.”

Terry Gray, Director at Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management, said, “As we develop a plan to reduce our emissions in accordance with the Act on Climate, we also need to prepare Rhode Island for the impacts that we will experience. Climate change is a global problem, and we will be experiencing rising sea levels, coastal storm surges, and more frequent and intense weather events. RI’s shoreline is fundamental to the identity and vitality of our coastal communities. It supports our fishing industry, sustains local livelihoods, and serves as a major engine for tourism and economic growth. This study is more critical than ever as we seek to understand and implement the infrastructure solutions needed to strengthen our coastal resilience. While important investments have already been made, there is still significant work ahead. I look forward to partnering with Arup as we advance effective, forward-thinking strategies to protect our shorelines.”

Kim Korioth, Rhode Island Chief Resilience Officer, said, “The passage of the Acts on Coasts legislation by the Rhode Island General Assembly is a powerful acknowledgment of how vital this work is to the future of the Ocean State. This investment is not only essential for protecting communities statewide, but also positions Rhode Island as a national leader in climate resilience. We are deeply grateful to our legislators for prioritizing this critical effort.”

Ilana Judah, Americas Climate and Sustainability Leader at Arup, said, “We recognize the importance of this work and the role it will play in identifying how we can best protect Rhode Island’s communities. And we’re grateful for the opportunity to apply our local and global expertise in climate resilience to assist all the stakeholders who have come together in support of this fundamental mission.”

The Arup coastal resilience study will include a series of community workshops with the first taking place on June 18th. Upcoming announcements on plan development & engagement will be shared via ClimateChange.RI.gov.

Source