Improving Resiliency through Zoning

The 195 District has taken a proactive approach to improving the resiliency of developments in the District. As part of the 2023 update to the District’s Development Plan new standards were introduced to protect future development from climate-related flood risks. Developed in partnership with consultants and climate researchers from URI, the standards are based on detailed analysis of tidal, riverine, and storm surge flood risk for the parcels in the District.

Two design flood elevations were established—one for ground floors and another for critical building systems—ensuring future buildings are better protected. These guidelines are already shaping projects like the park pavilion and the Dyer Wharf development proposed on Parcels 14 and 15. By incorporating climate resiliency into land use planning, the District is helping to build a safer, more sustainable community. The District has been leading a voice in this work, presenting on resiliency to local and national industry groups with a goal of promoting best practices and serving as a resource for other places.

Learn more in the Development Plan.