Known for its abundant sunshine and vibrant beach communities, Florida has become the third most populous state in the country, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. By 2030, the state’s population is estimated to reach 24.7 million people – an increase of 1.4 million – putting further pressure on aging and vulnerable infrastructure.
At the same time, Florida faces escalating climate risks. According to Florida State University’s Climate Center, sea levels are projected to rise more than three feet by 2070 in areas including Jacksonville, Cape Canaveral and Fernandina Beach. This threatens critical infrastructure and poses economic risks to a key industry for the region – tourism.
The Economic Case for Climate Resilience: Invest Now, Save Later
Proactive, data-driven investment in resilient infrastructure is more than good governance – it’s economically strategic. A 2024 study by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce found that every $1 of federal funding invested in hazard adaptation and resilience yields a $13 return. Considering that extreme weather has caused more than $100 billion in damage in Florida since 2019, proactive investments in resiliency could save communities billions.
So, how can municipalities across Florida proactively prepare for these shifts and build long-term resiliency?
Climate Resilience Solutions from Resilient Analytics
Resilient Analytics helps state, county and municipal governments understand their climate risk exposure and translate this data into actionable adaptation and resiliency strategies. We leverage this data to evaluate the potential effects on people, infrastructure and local economies, enabling clients to prioritize investments based on exposure, risk severity and economic impact.
Translating these insights into actionable strategies requires more than identifying climate hazard exposure and asset vulnerability. We employ a data-driven methodology that includes cost-benefit analyses that compare the economic impacts of proactive, reactive and no adaptation strategies. To drive action, we also develop concept-level designs, phased implementation plans and ongoing monitoring and evaluation frameworks - ultimately making resilience a tangible, achievable objective for our clients.
With Resilient Analytics, resilience planning includes a strategic, layered approach that addresses:
Policy & Governance: Policies and planning guidelines that integrate climate resilience into standard operating procedures, decision-making processes and regulatory frameworks.
Infrastructure Solutions: Elevated structures, green infrastructure, utility hardening and design criteria that support long-term resiliency.
Nature-Based Options: Shoreline buffers like native aquatic grasses and coastal wetlands to reduce erosion and absorb storm impacts.
Land Use and Planning: Integrated climate risk modeling to inform land use and zoning updates.
Resilient Analytics delivers more than data – we provide end-to-end climate resilience solutions backed by decades of climate science and engineering experience. Our clients benefit from state-of-the-art climate data interpretation and scenario analysis; custom infrastructure vulnerability assessments tailored to local assets; turnkey planning and engineering solutions in partnership with Stanley Consultants; and a history of success with public and private sector clients, including Departments of Transportation, Municipal Planning Organizations, the EPA and the World Bank.
Lead Now or Pay Later
The data is clear – proactive investment in resilience pays off. With Resilient Analytics as a partner, communities and organizations can build a safer, more sustainable future. Contact Resilient Analytics to begin your resilience journey.