BACKGROUND

Climate change and extreme weather can cause severe disruptions to human mobility and disproportionately affect vulnerable populations (e.g., children, elderly, disabled). The mobility and recovery challenges for vulnerable populations can result in short- and long-term consequences. More specifically, as climate and weather-related events worsen, which could happen, mobility is further compromised and access to life-saving resources and services, such as health care, food, jobs, school, civic activities, and social engagements, is diminished. 

Failure to address transportation disparities for vulnerable populations will perpetuate and widen existing inequities. Intentional strategic planning and investments in transportation are critical to improving safety and accessibility for vulnerable populations.  In fact, recent federal initiatives promote transportation planning and investment designed to build a safer and more resilient future.

While state departments of transportation (DOTs) are required to improve transportation planning and conduct risk analyses to make resilient infrastructure investments, only some states have initiated meaningful efforts to reduce risks for vulnerable populations. Research is needed to support the development of transportation plans, programs, and investments to mitigate the disproportionate impacts of climate change and extreme weather and improve the mobility of vulnerable populations. 

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this research is to develop a resource for transportation and planning agencies as they develop plans and programs for investments that address the impacts of climate change and extreme weather on the mobility of vulnerable populations.

STATUS

The research is underway.