This case study examines the potential impact of the proposed Climate Adjusted Flood Elevation (CAFE) standards on future development and redevelopment projects in Laurence Harbor, NJ, specifically focusing on how green infrastructure and other resilience tools can mitigate stormwater and flood events. A majority of the case study area will be subject to the new CAFE standards, meaning higher minimum elevations will be required for new structures. 

Our approach involves combining public space improvements with required risk reduction measures to create active spaces through resilience.

Taking a holistic view of the study area, with two prescribed sites as well as the surrounding areas and public right of way, our main objective was to meet both public and market demands with new community and mixed-use structures, ensuring they are built above CAFE standards, while also improving connectivity, access, safety, and the overall navigability of the area. Additional co-benefits of the design include increased green spaces and active public areas, reduced impermeable and low-albedo surfaces, improved stormwater management, and severed coastal flood pathways.