NAVIGATING FLOOD RISK IN U.S. MUNICIPAL PLANNING: A MENTAL MODEL ANALYSIS

Author

Kyle Mcelroy, University of Rhode IslandFollow

Date of Award

2024

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy in Marine Affairs

Department

Marine Affairs

First Advisor

Austin Becker

Abstract

This dissertation explores the integration of Flood Risk Management (FRM) into municipal planning in the United States through three interrelated studies. The research addresses the central question: How do U.S. municipalities integrate FRM into urban planning, and what factors, principles, and challenges shape this process?

The first study reviews current practices, principles, and challenges in integrating FRM with municipal planning. It highlights gaps in actionable guidance, the roles of diverse planners, and strategies to balance competing priorities, such as economic development and infrastructure needs. The second study develops an Expert Mental Model (EMM) to capture the nuanced interplay between external pressures, institutional drivers, planner perceptions, and collaborative processes shaping FRM integration. This study emphasizes the importance of balancing technical, human, and political factors to craft resilient strategies while highlighting areas for further research and application of the EMM framework. The third study applies the EMM to a Providence, Rhode Island case study, analyzing the city's 2024 Comprehensive Plan update. It identifies key influences, such as legacy infrastructure and institutional constraints, which shape FRM integration and highlights the influence of municipal values and individual attitudes towards FRM. The findings reveal that while Providence’s FRM aspirations are proactive, implementation remains largely reactive.

Together, these studies advance the understanding of how FRM is integrated into municipal planning by offering theoretical insights, a practical framework, and real-world application. This dissertation contributes to the broader field of urban planning by identifying strategies for fostering resilience and sustainability amidst evolving climate change challenges.

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.

Recommended Citation

Mcelroy, Kyle, "NAVIGATING FLOOD RISK IN U.S. MUNICIPAL PLANNING: A MENTAL MODEL ANALYSIS" (2024). Open Access Dissertations. Paper 1707.
https://digitalcommons.uri.edu/oa_diss/1707