XTE – Consultants, Designers, Architects, Engineers, Project Managers & Operators

Northeastern University, Climate Vulnerability Assessment

LOCATION
BOSTON, MA

OWNER
Northeastern University

Description

The Climate Vulnerability Assessment provided an analysis of Northeastern University’s critical systems and assets and characterized priority hazards, which includes a sensitivity and adaptive capacity analysis to assess the University’s strengths and vulnerabilities. Wells Webster worked with the project team to perform high-level analysis and coordinate current conditions with predicted climate change models. The analysis synthesized past studies and documents, confirming details with staff and integrating with the City of Boston climate predictions.

Wells Webster reviewed and analyzed climate risks and vulnerabilities using geographic information systems (GIS) data sources for climate change and campus-wide documentation. We provided high-level research assessments on coastal and stormwater flooding and a review of increased temperatures and droughts. Based on these findings, we provided recommendations to increase resilience at vulnerable sites, including gray and green infrastructure measures for stormwater management.

Project Highlights