Miami-Dade County releases Year 1 Progress Update on Sea Level Rise Strategy

Today the International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Working Group II released their report Impacts, Adaptation and Vulnerability. This report underscores the urgency of preparing for and adapting to the changing climate now.  

Also today, Miami-Dade County is releasing its Year 1 Progress Update summarizing the implementation of the County’s Sea Level Rise Strategy which was released in February 2021. Miami-Dade is already investing in adaptation to reduce our flood risks and has been a leader on this issue for years thanks to the support of Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and the diligent leadership of the Board of County Commissioners.  

Commissioner Sosa was an early leader in crafting and passing legislation to help Miami-Dade understand and adapt to sea level rise. And, she continues to shepherd landmark resolutions on sea level rise through the Board of County Commissioners ensuring that the County is resilient now and into the future. 

“Climate change and sea level rise pose an immediate threat to our communities in Miami-Dade County and many residents are already feeling the effects of sunny day flooding and increased stormwater flooding when we get heavy rainstorms,” said Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. “Rising seas impact everything from our drinking water to our housing market, which is why I am so proud of the progress we’ve made implementing our Sea Level Rise Strategy. We are building a Miami-Dade County that is future-read and a leader in climate adaptation.” 

Major successes this year include prioritizing septic to sewer projects that will protect the public health of our residents and Biscayne Bay.  In addition, many of the County's applications to the Resilient Florida Grant Program were successfully recommended for funding. This could bring back more than $247 million in state and federal grant funds to support resilience projects in Miami-Dade County.  

This afternoon at 1p.m. the Office of Resilience will host a webinar providing more details on progress the County has made addressing sea level rise. To register visit this link: https://miamidade.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMrc-ivqDwpEtBP_A-by8T6xcEq8HJj0zoE. 

Additionally, there will be a press call at 2:30 pm for members of the media to ask questions. Please email [email protected] for the zoom link.