With increasing climate issues like extreme weather events, sea level rise, storm surge, and flooding, coastal communities—and their infrastructure—are at risk. Holistic, locally-sensitive, transformative solutions are required to help tidally influenced waterfronts thrive—now and into the future.
VHB’s comprehensive approach to coastal engineering and resiliency includes integrating multiple services, from water resource engineering to transportation planning and design to urban, waterfront, and resilience planning. Combined with our knowledge of and experience with shoreline protection and restoration, marina and waterfront access, regulatory frameworks, and grant funding programs, this holistic approach results in sustainable and adaptable solutions. By addressing both the natural and built environments in a balanced manner, we enhance coastal resilience, improve function, and deliver comprehensive solutions that safeguard and fortify waterfront investments.
The Chesterfield Heights and Grandy Village neighborhoods in Norfolk, VA, frequently faced coastal flooding due to sea level rise. As a coastal defense strategy, more than 2,000 linear feet of living shoreline were constructed to protect and preserve these historic communities.
Watch video: Aerial footage of Ohio Creek shoreline, Norfolk, VA / 0:20
Featured Services
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Natural Shoreline Protection & Restoration
With rising sea levels, many coastal zones need strong defenses. Rather than simply using seawalls, buffer zones of vegetation require less maintenance. They also provide space for flora and fauna to flourish, promoting sustainability and creating an inviting landscape. VHB’s approach to resilient shoreline design includes incorporating nature-based processes and ecosystems.
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Transportation Infrastructure Resiliency
Coastal areas must address complex challenges on- and offshore, including flooding that can result in road closures along critical infrastructure. VHB understands that effective roadway design and transportation infrastructure is imperative to functional and resilient waterfronts.
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Waterfront Revitalization
Waterfronts can serve as economic engines, providing business opportunities, recreation, and entertainment amenities for residents and visitors. From siting and permitting to land development to mobility, VHB brings our holistic approach and comprehensive services to create safe, accessible, and connected waterfronts.
How VHB Can Help
VHB partners with our clients to assess long-term impacts of challenges posed by rising sea levels and increased storm intensity. Our integrated approach and comprehensive services help protect and enhance coastal investments and assets, driving impactful outcomes that not only allow our communities to withstand adverse future storm events but also quickly recover.
