Award-winning resilient design program now includes riverine and lacustrine waterfronts
Applying to inland waterways Hunter’s Point South, a WEDG Verified site in New York City
Copyright Bill Tatham, Courtesy of SWABALSLEY and WEISS MANFREDI New York, New York, Nov. 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE)
As the impacts of climate change intensify throughout the nation, communities are facing unprecedented challenges in protecting their waterfront areas. In response to this urgent need, the Waterfront Alliance has released a new version of the Waterfront Edge Design Guidelines (WEDG®), a nationally applicable program that focuses on resilient design for riverine and lacustrine waterfronts.
One of the key features of this updated version of WEDG® is its expansion to include inland waterways, such as Hunter’s Point South in New York City. This development marks a significant step forward in addressing the growing threats posed by climate change to our waterways and waterfront communities.
The WEDG® program, which has already received numerous awards for its innovative approach to waterfront design, provides a comprehensive set of guidelines for creating resilient and sustainable waterfront spaces. By incorporating principles of green infrastructure, habitat restoration, and community engagement, WEDG® aims to not only mitigate the impacts of climate change but also enhance the overall quality of life for waterfront residents.
With the inclusion of riverine and lacustrine waterfronts in the latest version of WEDG®, communities across the nation now have access to a proven framework for designing resilient waterfront areas. This updated program offers a roadmap for creating vibrant, ecologically diverse, and climate-resilient spaces that can withstand the challenges of a changing climate.
Overall, the new version of WEDG® represents a significant advancement in the field of waterfront design and underscores the importance of prioritizing resilience in the face of climate change. By adopting these guidelines, communities can better prepare for the inevitable impacts of a warming planet and ensure the long-term sustainability of their waterfront areas.
How this will affect me:
As a resident living near a riverine or lacustrine waterfront, the inclusion of these areas in the WEDG® program will directly impact the design and development of my community’s waterfront spaces. By following the guidelines outlined in WEDG®, my community can create more resilient and sustainable waterfront areas that are better equipped to withstand the challenges of climate change. This means that I can enjoy a safer, more vibrant waterfront environment that is designed with the future in mind.
How this will affect the world:
The expansion of the WEDG® program to include riverine and lacustrine waterfronts has the potential to have a significant impact on waterfront communities around the world. By promoting resilient design principles and sustainable practices, WEDG® can help address the global challenges posed by climate change and sea-level rise. By implementing these guidelines on a national scale, communities can work together to create more resilient waterfront areas that protect ecosystems, enhance biodiversity, and safeguard against the impacts of a changing climate.
Conclusion:
The release of the new version of WEDG® represents a major milestone in the effort to create resilient and sustainable waterfront areas in the face of climate change. By expanding the program to include riverine and lacustrine waterfronts, the Waterfront Alliance is providing communities with a valuable tool for adapting to the challenges of a warming planet. With the adoption of these guidelines, communities can build a more resilient future for their waterfront areas and ensure the long-term viability of these vital spaces.
