Document Type
Research Report
Original Publication Date
2025
Date of Submission
October 2025
Abstract
In 2023, the Research Institute for Social Equity, an institute of the Virginia Commonwealth University’s L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs, partnered with Resilient Virginia to explore the impact of climate change and degradation due to disasters and environmental hazards on the critical infrastructure in and around historically marginalized and underserved communities in the Richmond and Southside Virginia areas. During the study period, 2023-2025, the research team conducted both primary and secondary research in three Virginia localities: Charles City County, the City of Emporia, and a portion of the City of Richmond. Secondary research included a thorough review using an equity analysis framework of the localities’ existing planning documents, including emergency management plans and forward-looking strategic plans. Primary research included surveys, interviews, and focus groups with both emergency officials and citizens. Stakeholders were involved not only as participants but also as partners in interpreting findings. More than 100 emergency management officials, Community Advisory Board members, navigators, and community conversation attendees provided input on how results should be framed and shared with residents. Their feedback shaped the design of storymaps, policy briefs, and data products, ensuring that project deliverables reflect community priorities and can be used in future grant applications, planning, and resilience efforts.
Recommended Citation
Research Institute for Social Equity. (2025). Strengthening Critical Infrastructure for Equity and Resilience: Findings from the Environmental Justice Data Project. Richmond, VA: L. Douglas Wilder School of Government & Public Affairs. Virginia Commonwealth University.
Is Part Of
VCU RISE (Research Institute for Social Equity) Research