Coastal cities are on the front lines of some of the most urgent challenges facing the global economy: flooding, storm surge, extreme heat, sea level rise, aging infrastructure, insurance pressures, population growth, and the need to protect both residents and economic assets. For cities like Tampa, climate resilience is not only an environmental issue. It is a public safety issue, an infrastructure issue, a housing issue, a business continuity issue, and a long-term competitiveness issue.
This breakout will explore how coastal cities can prepare for climate-related risks while continuing to grow, attract investment, support tourism, protect neighborhoods, and maintain quality of life. Panelists will discuss resilience planning, stormwater infrastructure, coastal protection, nature-based solutions, heat mitigation, emergency preparedness, insurance and finance, public-private partnerships, and lessons from other coastal cities around the world.
For Tampa, this conversation is especially relevant as the region continues to expand as a destination for business, residents, visitors, trade, and international engagement. The session should help attendees understand how global best practices can inform local action — and how coastal cities can collaborate internationally to build stronger, safer, and more resilient communities.
