BROWARD COUNTY, FL - In the face of a changing climate, Broward County is embracing
a bold vision for the future with the launch of the Broward County
Resilience Plan, a 50-year roadmap designed to create a safer, stronger, and
more resilient future for all.
Broward County is on the frontlines of a changing climate, facing the growing impacts of rising sea
levels, more intense rainfall, storm surge, and increasing heat. These
challenges put our communities at significant risk for widespread flooding,
declining property values, rising insurance costs, and disruptions to business,
tourism, and daily life.
To tackle these growing challenges, the Resilience Plan presents
a long-term, practical strategy to strengthen neighborhoods, reduce risk, and
improve community stability. It combines natural solutions, such as swales and
expanded green spaces with smart infrastructure like seawalls and improved
drainage systems. Together, these approaches aim to protect critical infrastructure,
manage flooding, reduce the effects of extreme heat, and help create a safer,
more resilient Broward County. This collaborative effort involves the County,
local municipalities, water control districts and the private sector all
working together for a stronger future.
"This
Resilience Plan is more than a blueprint; it is a call to action," said Mayor
Beam Furr. "It is a practical, action-oriented roadmap to help us navigate the
challenges ahead. Together, we are not just adapting, we are building a
thriving, resilient Broward for generations to come."
The Plan introduces a two-tiered adaptation approach, with
milestones set for 2050 and 2070. When fully implemented, the County
anticipates a significant reduction in property damage from flooding, increased
real estate value, and a boost in short-term economic activity.
The
Plan was developed with input from the public, municipal, and business leaders
and was led by the Resilience Plan Steering Committee. The overarching goals of
this plan are reducing flood risk, and protecting homes, business and public
spaces. The plan hopes to lead the way to a stronger economy with fewer disruptions of business
operations, improving public health by mitigating the effects of extreme heat,
preserving the environment, and strengthening the County's ability to prepare
for, and respond to climate-related impacts.
Broward County's resiliency efforts are led by Dr. Jennifer
Jurado, Chief Resilience Officer and Deputy Director of the Resilient
Environment Department. The department plays a key role in strengthening
community resilience through a wide range of environmental, planning, housing
and regulatory and community-focused initiatives.
To explore the full Resilience Plan, better understand your
flooding risks using the scenario viewer, and learn more about Broward County's
commitment to a resilient future, visit www.resilientbroward.com.
June 10, 2025
Media Contact: Dr. Jennifer Jurado
Chief Resilience Office
Deputy Director Resilient Environment Dept.
(954) 519-1464