Envision Wakefield Resilient Overview

Chamber of Commerce members at program workshop

Six Things to Know About the Wakefield Resilient Initiative

1. What it is and why we did it

The effects of climate change are becoming increasingly apparent on both the global and local level. Massachusetts is seeing an increase in intense storms, extreme heat, flooding, and drought—and these trends are expected to continue. To start the conversion about how to create a more resilient Wakefield, the Town applied for funds through the Massachusetts Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) program in the spring of 2019. The MVP Program provides communities with funding to complete vulnerability assessments and develop action-oriented resilience plans. Envision Wakefield Resilient is the effort to develop a pathway to a healthy, thriving future for Wakefield.

2. Public feedback was critical

Planning a more resilient future cannot be done without help from the entire community. That’s why hearing from the public was at the center of this effort. Throughout the six-month process, the team attended and hosted a series of events to gather feedback through conversations centered around concerns about various climate hazards. We heard from the community at Festival by the Lake, Festival Italia, a Business Resilience workshop, a Bring Your Own Breakfast event with the Chamber of Commerce, and by visiting a high school environmental studies class. Your insight was key!

3. Survey results helped tell the story

To understand Wakefield residents’ top priorities, we created a survey that helped paint the picture of Wakefield’s resilient future. Eighty-four percent of participants are either “very concerned” or “somewhat concerned” that climate change will affect the Town of Wakefield. Some top priorities for people included protecting the water quality of Lake Q and Crystal Lake, expanding renewable energy generation, upgrading critical infrastructure, and improving transportation options. 

4. What came out of the project?

After compiling the public feedback, the consultant team helped develop a resilience framework that will be used to evaluate proposed Town projects and ensure they are incorporating sustainability and resilience best practices whenever possible. Town staff will be trained on how to use the framework to ensure its successful implementation. Key criteria include equity, greenhouse gas reduction, regional collaboration, and resilience.

5. Businesses play an important role

Businesses are critical to maintaining a thriving community. That’s why we included engagement focused on working with businesses to ensure they are set up to withstand the effects of climate change. Take a look at the Business Resilience Checklist to see how you can help your business prepare for changing climate conditions. Whether you are looking to better prepare your staff, understand your flooding risk, or improve your communication system, this checklist has the resources you need.

6. Now what?

Resilience is not a one-and-done kind of thing. It requires continued effort from all members of the community. Help us keep the conversation going by talking to your friends and family about how to create a more resilient Wakefield. Even better, take action!