Arup selected to conduct Rhode Island Coastal Resilience Study

For Immediate Release: 05/29/25

Arup will undertake a statewide analysis of resilience actions, vulnerabilities, and priority projects for investment.

Rhode Island Infrastructure Bank and the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM) today announced global built environment design consultancy Arup has been selected to conduct the state’s first comprehensive coastal resilience study. This initiative stems from the 2024 passage of Act on Coasts legislation by the General Assembly, which mandates the development of a statewide plan to assess community vulnerabilities, recommend mitigation strategies along ocean and riverine coasts, and identify financing strategies to implement resiliency strategies. The study will address concerns including sea level rise, increased storm frequency & precipitation, warming air and water temperatures, and changing biodiversity. Arup was selected following a competitive public bidding process led by the Infrastructure Bank and RIDEM. Arup subcontracted experts on this project include Fuss & O’Neil, CIVIC, and Camoin Associates.

“From more frequent floods and overwhelmed stormwater systems, to accelerating coastal erosion, Rhode Island’s communities are already feeling the impacts of climate change,”
Rhode Island Infrastructure Bank Executive Director William Fazioli. “This new comprehensive coastal resilience study to be conducted by Arup will give us detailed insights into vulnerable municipal infrastructure, and options to improve resilience. We look forward to the results of this study, which will complement our successful Municipal Resilience Program that has already provided $24 million to cities and towns across the state to invest in resilient infrastructure solutions. This is another piece of the puzzle as we work together to build a more Resilient Rhody.”

“As we develop a plan to reduce our emissions in accordance with the Act on Climate, we also need to prepare Rhode Island for the impacts that we will experience. Climate change is a global problem, and we will be experiencing rising sea levels, coastal storm surges, and more frequent and intense weather events,”
RIDEM Director Terry Gray. “RI’s shoreline is fundamental to the identity and vitality of our coastal communities. It supports our fishing industry, sustains local livelihoods, and serves as a major engine for tourism and economic growth. This study is more critical than ever as we seek to understand and implement the infrastructure solutions needed to strengthen our coastal resilience. While important investments have already been made, there is still significant work ahead. I look forward to partnering with Arup as we advance effective, forward-thinking strategies to protect our shorelines.”

“The passage of the Acts on Coasts legislation by the Rhode Island General Assembly is a powerful acknowledgment of how vital this work is to the future of the Ocean State,”
Kim Korioth, Rhode Island Chief Resilience Officer. “This investment is not only essential for protecting communities statewide, but also positions Rhode Island as a national leader in climate resilience. We are deeply grateful to our legislators for prioritizing this critical effort.”

“We recognize the importance of this work and the role it will play in identifying how we can best protect Rhode Island’s communities,”
Ilana Judah, Arup, Americas Climate and Sustainability Services Leader . “And we’re grateful for the opportunity to apply our local and global expertise in climate resilience to assist all the stakeholders who have come together in support of this fundamental mission.”

The Arup coastal resilience study will include a series of community workshops with the first taking place on June 18th. Upcoming announcements on plan development & engagement will be shared via ClimateChange.RI.gov.

About the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management
The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) works through 18 dedicated divisions to protect, restore, and promote the Ocean State’s natural environment. Through science-driven initiatives and strong partnerships, DEM advances coastal resiliency research and works to boost the resilience of our communities. From enforcing environmental laws to promoting outdoor recreation and sustainable agriculture and fisheries, DEM safeguards Rhode Island’s air, land, and water to ensure our state remains a wonderful place to live, visit, and raise a family.

About Arup
Arup is a global built environment consultancy providing advisory and technical expertise across more than 150 disciplines. With over 18,000 members – from engineers to urban planners – we create safe, resilient and regenerative spaces where people can thrive. We bring a creative and collaborative approach to our work of shaping a better world.

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