Climate Resiliency

Recent storms have had increasing impact on our coastal communities. In a report published in June 2020, the Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory concludes that “the vulnerability of coastal regions to storm surge flooding is expected to increase with future sea-level rise and coastal development.” So, how can communities create climate-resilient water and wastewater infrastructure? And how do they pay for it?

McKim & Creed engineers analyze, design and upfit resilient infrastructure that is built to accommodate storm-surge flooding. In our water, wastewater and reclaimed water project designs we address issues like saltwater intrusion, ground water contamination and reduced stormwater system capacity. We consider how to best protect water and wastewater treatment systems as well as power supplies. We evaluate monitoring and control system with respect to communications infrastructure reliability. And we determine the rate of infrastructure deterioration and account for access to critical infrastructure facilities during times of emergency.

We also develop budget resilience measures and support our clients’ efforts to gain FEMA/HMGP funding for recovery projects as well as funding through various other agencies for proactive enhancement and resiliency projects. McKim & Creed has helped 25+ utilities secure nearly $60 million in State Revolving Fund (SRF) and Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) funding.