Resilience Authority of Annapolis and Anne Arundel County
How we helped build a multi-jurisdictional approach and raise tens of miilions to drive climate change adaptation and mitigation
With 500+ miles of coastline including the waterfront state capitol of Annapolis, Maryland’s Anne Arundel County is a bellwether of climate change. Long prone to flooding and other adverse effects associated with sea level rise, the two jurisdictions came together to create the nation’s first multi-jurisdictional resilience authority to accelerate the pace and scale of infrastructure improvements needed to prepare, mitigate, and adapt the region to the impacts of a changing climate.
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The client faced a critical need for swift, impactful action in response to increasing climate threats. With limited funding and a vast geographic area to cover, they needed a partner to:
Secure substantial funding for critical infrastructure projects.
Develop a data-driven approach to prioritize projects for maximum impact.
Effectively communicate their mission and progress to stakeholders.
Drive economic growth while mitigating climate change effects.
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Council Fire provided strategic guidance and execution in the following key areas:
Data-Driven Prioritization: We developed a metrics-based decision-making tool to ensure projects aligned with the Authority's mission and priorities.
Impact Evaluation: We created a robust evaluative framework with impact metrics, enabling transparent communication and accountability.
Strategic Communications Enhancement: We designed and launched a new website to showcase the Authority's work and impact to a wider audience.
Economic Development Integration: We identified regional resources to execute projects, driving local economic growth alongside resilience efforts.
Grant Proposal Optimization: We supported the development of complex proposals and evaluated grants to recommend "best fit" opportunities, maximizing funding potential.
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Our on-going partnership has yielded significant organizational outcomes benefiting the communities of Annapolis and Anne Arundel County:
$38 Million Secured: Funds mobilized for vital climate resilient infrastructure projects.
$48 Million in Avoided Losses: Strategic investments in resilience saved Anne Arundel County and the City of Annapolis millions in potential damages.
1,372 Tons of Carbon Reduction: Contributing to a healthier environment through effective mitigation strategies.
36 Communities Impacted: Assisting multiple communities, including $1.75 million committed to projects in underserved areas.
Enhanced Public Presence: The new website effectively communicates the organization's scope, scale, and impact.
COMMUNICATIONS MATERIALS
Establishing a Brand Footprint
As the first multi-jurisdictional authority of its kind, the Resilience Authority sought to create a communications approach that was direct and informative with its wide array of stakeholders. A new website serves as the foundation - a highly-visual, colorful, and well-organized site highlighting transformative projects and leveraging quantitative metrics to reveal impacts.
