Out of the box
Climate Change Adaptation Workshop

Jorge Allende, from HUD's Community Planning and Development team explains the variety of available HUD programs.

Climate-related risks are rapidly increasing. These risks are compounded where there is aging infrastructure and as our population becomes more urbanized. Furthering Secretary Castro's mission for HUD to deal with climate-related impacts to create strong, sustainable, inclusive communities, and quality affordable homes for all Americans, HUD's Community Planning and Development team in Puerto Rico recently held the Climate Change Adaptation Workshop.

The one-day interagency event discussed topics such as planning green infrastructure and food sustainability. Presentations were delivered by HUD staff, as well as staff from US Department of Agriculture, US Environmental Protection Agency, Puerto Rico Department of Natural Resources, and Municipal Affairs Commissioner's Office. Emphasis was given on how to use HUD community development and affordable housing programs and funds (CDBG, HOME and remaining CDBG-R) for activities that will assist to adapt and become more resilient. Tips and best practices for water management in instances of urban flooding, drought and/or intense precipitation events and pest control among others were provided. A topic that garnered plenty of interest was housing rehabilitation with water/ sewer connection projects to help address combined overflows. The audience was comprised of HUD grantees that were appreciative of the information provided, and eagerly shared experiences and adaptability to "think out of the box".

###