Baltimore Community Input Improves Urban Flood Adaptation Model

Urban flooding causes significant social, environmental and economic losses every year. In Baltimore, those losses have increased in frequency and intensity since flooding records began in 1748 and are expected to continue doing so as the climate changes. Traditional flood prevention approaches, which use concrete and other impervious surfaces to direct flow, often fail in urban settings because they impede rainwater infiltration. A new model developed with community input is helping Baltimore better adapt to these challenges. By incorporating local knowledge and preferences, the model identifies green infrastructure solutions that reduce flood risk while providing co-benefits like improved water quality and urban green space. This participatory approach ensures that adaptations are equitable and effective, addressing the needs of the most vulnerable neighborhoods. As climate change intensifies, such community-driven models may become essential for resilient urban planning.