Georgia Needs Innovative Solutions and Coordinated Planning to Build Resilience
Pew-funded report finds that state’s communities are at risk, charts a path to safeguard people, businesses, and infrastructure
A new study from the University of Georgia’s Institute for Resilient Infrastructure Systems found that Georgia’s communities are increasingly vulnerable to extreme weather but also found that the state can build on a strong foundation of innovation and collaboration to prepare for the intensifying risk. The “Georgia Statewide Resilience Assessment” is a synthesis of statewide challenges, opportunities, and success stories, informed by insights from more than 130 experts from utilities, local governments, emergency agencies, and regional commissions.
The report outlines how coordinated resilience planning can proactively help protect Georgia’s residents, businesses, and critical infrastructure from the costs and disruption of extreme weather and offers a practical framework for connecting existing efforts, filling gaps, and building capacity. The recommendations include creation of a state-led planning initiative, networks to coordinate among jurisdictions and levels of government, data sharing to support better local decision-making, and updated infrastructure designed for future needs and conditions.
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