The Virginia Chapter of the American Planning Association (APA Virginia) has named the City of Virginia Beach the Resilient Virginia Community of the Year for its Sea Level Wise planning project. Dewberry, a privately held professional services firm, provided project management and primary technical support work on the planning project.

The firm began by assessing the vulnerability and flood risk exposure of city assets and critical infrastructure for existing and potential sea level rise scenarios. Using this impact assessment, the firm developed planning, policy, and engineered flood risk reduction measures to mitigate short- and long-term risks.

 “It is very rewarding to see this critical product for the city’s future honored by this award. This outcome reflects a great partnership, as well as everyone’s passion and commitment over a five-year journey to overcome the challenges of a very complex project,” says Dewberry Senior Coastal Scientist Brian Batten, Ph.D., CFM. 

The firm was acknowledged for using ArcGIS Story Maps for its presentation and making information on the project and flooding effects easily accessible by Virginia Beach citizens. The data will be continually assessed, and effects of this project will be seen for years to come as the city makes decisions on where best to prioritize funds to mitigate floods.