Published in the August 19, 2019 edition.
WAKEFIELD — Envision Wakefield Resilient initiative was launched to create a pathway to a healthy, thriving future.
Extreme storm events, flooding, and other hazards are becoming the norm, and climate science suggests this will continue. The Town of Wakefield is taking action to prepare for these changes and keep our community safe.
Thanks to a grant funded by the Massachusetts Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) program, Wakefield launched the Envision Wakefield Resilient initiative to engage the entire community in creating solutions that build resilience to climate change. Over the next six months, a framework will be developed to serve as a guide for departments to plan for and implement more resilient projects. The framework is intended to help Wakefield save money, reduce water consumption, and improve the town’s ability to deal with flooding.
“The Envision Wakefield concept allows us to look to the future of our great community,” says Town Administrator Stephen Maio. “Although we’ve seen Envision thus far only in terms of the potential of the downtown area, resilience is a critical subject to examine. From the health of our water supply during droughts to the safety of our residents in a heatwave, there are many components to Envision Wakefield Resilient. We are grateful for the work the community has provided thus far and look forward to growing the program.”
This effort was initiated in June, when representatives from local and regional organizations and town departments participated in two workshops to discuss how climate change continues to impact Wakefield and how all can work together to create a more resilient community. Facilitated by Kim Lundgren Associates, the group discussed the top hazards that currently impact Wakefield, including more intense storms, heavy precipitation, and pronounced periods of drought and flooding. Stakeholders identified the town’s vulnerabilities and strengths and what strategies can help ensure the town’s infrastructure, residents, businesses, and natural resources can withstand the current and predicted impacts of climate change.
Community members are encouraged to attend a public workshop on Thursday, August 29 at 7 p.m. in the Americal Civic Center where these strategies will be presented. A final report summarizing all of the workshops will be released in September 2019.
Wakefield residents are also invited to learn more about this initiative online at wakefield.ma.us/resilient and at the Envision Wakefield Resilient booth during Festival Italia on August 24. Representatives will be present at town events, host focus groups with businesses, and offer public engagement opportunities throughout the fall. Envision Wakefield Resilient is designed to align with existing town initiatives, including the Hazard Mitigation Plan, downtown revitalization project, and the work of the Environmental Sustainability Committee.
