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Home My Public Portal About009-2022 - EXHIBIT - Climate-Action-Plan-2022_FINAL-DIGITAL-UNADOPTED (1)Climate Action Plan 2022 1 City of Richmond, Indiana Climate Action Plan ond, Indiana 2 Climate Action Plan 2022 Part One: Adaptation Table of Contents Risks & Vulnerabilities: Hoosier Resilience Index (2020) Heat Precipitation Richmond’s “Beat The Heat” Program Determining Vulnerable Areas Adaptation Strategies Approach 1. Adapt the Built Environment Strategy 1A: Prepare Roadways and Bridges for Higher Maximum Temperatures and more Freeze-thaw Events Strategy 1B: Implement Programs or Activities that Reduce Heat Impacts on the Built Environment Strategy 1C: Prepare Bridge Openings, Culverts, and Ditches for Flooding Strategy 1D: Develop and Adopt Policies and Procedures for Post-ﬂ ood Repairs Strategy 1E: Develop Adaptive Stormwater Management Best Practices and Integrate them into a Plan to Reduce Stormwater Runoff from Impervious Surfaces Strategy 1F: Understand and Address Green Stormwater Collection and Treatment System Weaknesses Strategy 1G: Increase Street Sweeping and Stormwater Drain Maintenance Approach 2: Prepare Economic Development Practices for a Changing Climate Strategy 2A: Evaluate How Climate Change Impacts Could Aff ect the Local Economy Strategy 2B: Incorporate Climate and Disaster Resilience into Economic Development Strategic Plans Table of Contents Introductory Letter Letter from Mayor Snow Acknowledgments How to Use This Plan Symbol Key 02 07 05 12 21 13 22 22 22 23 23 24 15 16 17 19 20 20 20 21 08 06 11 09 Over 80% of survey respondents expressed concern about climate change and its future impacts. Survey Fact! Climate Action Plan 2022 3 Part Two: Mitigation Current Emissions: GHG Inventory (2018) Forecast of Richmond’s Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Trends Mitigation Strategies Approach 7: Decarbonize Energy Generation Strategy 7A: Advocate for Increased Renewable Energy Sources in Richmond’s Local Energy Portfolio Strategy 7B: Connect Residents and Businesses with on-site Solar Opportunities Strategy 7C: Integrate Renewable Energy into Land Use and Zoning Codes Strategy 7D: Eliminate Barriers to Residential Solar Development Strategy 7E: Develop Local Incentives for Renewable Energy Projects Approach 8: Increase Energy Effi ciency Strategy 8A: Connect Residents with Home Weatherization Opportunities Strategy 8B: Provide Residents with Energy Effi ciency Education Strategy 8C: Explore Opportunities for Commercial Energy Benchmarking Strategy 8D: Increase Energy Effi ciency Audits in Buildings Strategy 8E: Advocate for Building Code Updates to Increase Energy Effi ciency Requirements Strategy 2C: Consider and Plan for Implications of Climate Change on the Local Job Market Strategy 2D: Establish a Protocol for Providing Assistance to Residents Facing Financial Strain From Climate Hazards Strategy 2E: Develop a Plan for Accepting People Displaced by Climate Change Impacts Approach 3: Prepare Emergency Management Systems for Future Stresses Strategy 3A: Identify and Protect Critical Infrastructure from Higher Temperatures Strategy 3B: Involve Critical Faculty and Emergency Infrastructure Managers in Climate Change Preparedness and Management Strategy 3C: Educate Residents about Steps they Can Take to Improve Personal Emergency Preparedness Strategy 3D: Enhance Community Networks and Connections for Vulnerable Communities Approach 4: Prepare Energy and Utilities for a Changing Climate Strategy 4A: Work Internally and with Local Utilities to Increase Power Supply Preparedness Strategy 4B: Encourage Alternative Energy Generation, Energy Storage Systems, and Distributed Energy Strategy 4C: Install Back-up Power Options for Critical Facilities and Systems Strategy 4D: Establish a Protocol for Providing Assistance to Residents who may Face Financial Strain Caused by Higher Energy Costs Approach 5: Adopt More Sustainable Planning and Land Use Policies Strategy 5A: Complete the US EPA’s Flood Resilience Checklist Strategy 5B: Participate in the National Flood Insurance Program Community Rating System Strategy 5C: Pass a Tree Canopy Ordinance Strategy 5D: Designate Vegetation Protection Areas Strategy 5E: Promote Energy Effi ciency and Waste Heat Reduction Strategy 5F: Integrate Funding for Readiness Actions into Financial Planning Approach 6: Adapt Public Health & Safety Processes Strategy 6A: Provide Air Quality Education and Advanced Warning Systems for High Pollution Days Strategy 6B: Develop and Implement a Plan for High Air Pollution Days that Calls for both Public and Private Action Strategy 6C: Develop Local Air Pollution Reduction Programs 24 29 29 30 30 31 31 31 32 32 33 33 34 34 25 25 26 26 27 27 27 28 28 29 36 35 42 43 43 44 44 45 45 39 40 40 41 41 42 4 Climate Action Plan 2022 Strategy 8F: Incorporate Increased Energy Effi ciency into City Operations Strategy 8G: Continue Upgrading Energy Transmission Infrastructure to Reduce Grid Loss Approach 9: Effi ciently Manage Solid Waste Strategy 9A: Explore Feasibility for Various Compost Scales and Methods Strategy 9B: Explore Landﬁ ll Methane Capture Technologies Strategy 9C: Increase Recycling Rates and Options Strategy 9D: Divert Construction Debris from the Landﬁ ll Strategy 9E: Evaluate Solid Waste Collection and Transportation Routes Strategy 9F: Expand Electronics, HFC (Hydroﬂ uorocarbon), and Other Specialty Material Landﬁ ll Diversion Projects Approach 10: Reduce Annual Vehicular Miles Traveled Strategy 10A: Advocate for Funding Opportunities for Multi-modal Transportation Options and Infrastructure Strategy 10B: Evaluate Integrating Multi-modal Transit into Capital Spending plans Strategy 10C: Aid in Providing Employer-assisted Transit Programs Strategy 10D: Educate Community Organizations and Residents on Value of Multi-modal Transit and Local Opportunities Strategy 10E: Evaluate Bike Sharing Programs Strategy 10F: Promote Dense and Compact Development Methods and Bike Infrastructure Strategy 10G: Evaluate Reducing Minimum Parking Requirements in the Uniﬁ ed Development Ordinance Strategy 10H: Utilize City Incentives to Encourage Projects Prioritizing Non-motorized Transit Strategy 10I: Evaluate Methods to Encourage Multi-tenant Commercial Buildings over Single-tenant Buildings Strategy 10J: Prioritize a Complete Streets Program and Ensure Integration in an Updated Bike and Pedestrian Master Plan Strategy 10K: Increase Public Transportation Effi ciency Approach 11: Increase Effi ciency of Vehicles Strategy 11A: Add Electric Vehicle Charging Stations Strategy 11B: Convert City Vehicles to Hybrid and/or Electric Strategy 11C: Advocate for High-Level Vehicle Effi ciency Policy Approach 12: Effi ciently Manage Potable Water Strategy 12A: Partner with IAWC to Connect Residents with Resources Strategy 12B: Install Water Effi cient Fixtures in City-Owned Facilities Strategy 12C: Evaluate Implementing Programs to Aid Residents in Installing Water Effi cient Fixtures Strategy 12D: Advocate for Increased Effi ciency of Potable Water Treatment Approach 13: Effi ciently Manage Liquid Waste Strategy 13A: Increase Wastewater Treatment Process Effi ciency Strategy 13B: Explore Advanced Anaerobic Digestion Inﬂ ows Endnotes Appendices Appendix I: Community Input Appendix II: Climate Action Plan Survey Results Appendix III: Next Steps for Climate Resilience in Richmond, IN Appendix IV: Greenhouse Gas Inventory Appendix V: The U.S. Mayors Climate Protection Agreement Appendix VI: Resolution No. 004-2021 Conclusion 46 54 55 55 56 56 57 57 58 58 59 59 60 60 61 62 62 63 70 98 132 133 46 47 47 48 48 49 50 50 51 52 51 52 53 53 54 64 65 66 66 68 Climate Action Plan 2022 5 Introductory Letter The increase in greenhouse gas concentrations in the Earth’s atmosphere since the beginning of the industrial revolution is clear. Many climatic processes are driven by a variety of factors, and seemingly minor increases in average worldwide temperature can have signiﬁ cantly more dire consequences on a variety of levels. As increased climate and weather variability and average temperatures worldwide are already evident, acting on greenhouse gas emissions and preparing for future impacts of a changing climate is essential. On May 3rd, 2021, a group of seven students from various Richmond schools presented Resolution 004-2021 to the Richmond Common Council. The resolution made a plea to council members for their support of environmental protection and climate action. Before many of those students were even born, Richmond Mayor Sally Hutton had signed the US Mayor’s Climate Protection Agreement joining over 1,000 communities across the country working toward a more sustainable future. Richmond knows the value of environmental protection and is ready to fulﬁ ll its promise to those students and the entire community. In 2012, Richmond established an Environmental Sustainability Commission “to promote environmental sustainability and conservation of natural resources in the City of Richmond for the public good”. In partnership with various departments and community organizations, the Environmental Sustainability Commission is tasked with carrying out the sustainability tasks outlined in the 2020 Richmond Rising: Community Action Plan. This living document identiﬁ ed objectives, policy statements, and projects all of which will contribute to a healthier, more vibrant, and sustainable city. Th ose objectives are to: 1.Protect, connect, and restore natural areas including wood lots, wetlands, ﬂ oodplains, and other ecologically sensitive areas. 2. Educate and encourage local residents and organizations to preserve the overall quality of Richmond’s natural resources. 3.Encourage the development of Citywide sustainability and resiliency strategies in the long term. 4.Educate and encourage local residents and organizations on community emergency preparedness. To achieve these four objectives, we must be strategic. Richmond Rising’s authors recognized the importance of strategic planning and recommended that the Richmond Environmental Sustainability Commission prepare a Citywide Sustainability Action Plan or “Climate Action Plan” to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, while also creating a resiliency plan that aligns community priorities and resources to better withstand hazardous to better withstand natural disasters. The following Climate Action Plan includes both mitigation strategies which aim to lower emissions and protect environmental quality, and adaptation strategies which aim to prepare citizens and infrastructure for the damaging eff ects of rising temperatures and extreme weather events. Purdue University’s Climate Change Research Center has done extensive research which points to increasing extreme heat, economic challenges from disaster clean-up eff orts, and negative health eff ects from unchecked emissions. Each community member can contribute to a healthier community using this research as our guide and motivation. As your Environmental Sustainability Commission, we pledge to make strides through this plan in an eff ort to make our community more livable for generations to come. Richmond Environmental Sustainability Commission Matt Evans, Chair 6 Climate Action Plan 2022 Letter from Mayor Snow Richmond has positioned itself as a city of vision and resilience throughout history. Through the many landmarks and notable moments to our current community planning and eff orts, it’s clear this community has always shown a collective inclination for securing a strong and prosperous future for generations to come. We are accustomed to working on projects and securing partnerships that strive for ﬁ nancial, legislative, and operational health as a city government. Something relatively new in this list is working to secure our environmental health and ensure the people who call Richmond home deep into our future can enjoy the same livable conditions we take for granted today. Thankfully, work has already begun. Several recent projects show our commitment to considering the health of our environment while making decisions. Initiatives such as solar energy collaborations with Indiana Municipal Power Agency and deconstruction eff orts on the former Reid Hospital property demonstrate a powerful impact when city governments, businesses, and citizens work together. Additionally, Richmond is working on adaptation processes and programs to help our vulnerable residents cope with the eff ects of rising temperatures through the “Beat the Heat” program- a collaboration with Indiana University and the Offi ce of Community and Rural Aff airs. This vital work requires countless hours, a long-term vision, and a myriad of partners to guarantee its ability to be handed off to each incoming generation with their work expanding on the last. We must take hold of this responsibility and do our part to implement a data-driven plan to combat our habits and procedures that will only bring about further harm. This plan will guide us and educate us to work smarter in our eff orts to secure a bright future for our beautiful city. This is a big task; however, I do not doubt Richmond’s ability to rise to the challenge and not only meet the standards but do as we have done so often in the past and carve a new path for others to follow. This will require each of us to work as a united team, and although our ﬁ nish line is far on the horizon, banding together, Richmond will continue to grow and ﬂ ourish. I want to thank everyone who has worked thus far to bring this plan to fruition and encourage those who come next to join us in this meaningful endeavor. Let us make certain that when future generations look back on the actions we take now, they will have no doubt we could see past our timeline, and like true visionaries, plan for their livelihood. Richmond Mayor Dave Snow 6 Climate Action Plan 2022 Climate Action Plan 2022 7Climate Ae Actictiono Plan 2022 7 Acknowledgments This plan was created using the talents, insight, and experience of countless city departments, local organizations, and state-wide contributors. Unparalleled thanks go to Indiana University’s Environmental Resilience Institute for providing years of assistance and programming along every step of this process, and without whom this would not be possible. We’d like to thank the following groups for their contributions: Richmond City Staff Ian Vanness: Director, Department of Infrastructure and Development Grayson Hart: GIS Coordinator Lucille Mellen: Heat Relief Coordinator Jeb Reece: Community Development Coordinator Richmond Environmental Sustainability Commission Matt Evans: Chair Grayson Hart: Vice-chair Shannon Hayes: Secretary Alison Zajdel Leighanne Hahn Fred Stockberger Darla Paul Skip Moore Matthew Cain Richmond Rising Steering Committee Wayne County Emergency Management Matthew Cain Earlham College Scott Hess Interns Earlham College Richmond Residency Intern Melissa Velasquez IDEM CLEAN Communities Program McKinney Climate Fellow Gabbie Orlando McKinney Climate Fellow Ananya Rao Earlham College EPIC Intern Marcella Lanzillotti Earlham College Senior Environmental Sustainability Majors, Class of 2020 Richmond Youth Climate Action Team Indiana University’s Environmental Resilience Institute Purdue Climate Change Research Center Hoosier Resilience Index Readiness Assessment Respondents Climate Action Plan Survey Respondents Indiana University’s Sustainable Communities Class, 2021 Indiana Department of Environmental Management Youth Climate Action Survey Respondents Support for the Beat the Heat program is graciously provided by Indiana University’s Environmental Resilience Institute, the Offi ce of Community and Rural Aff airs, and Reid Health. Climate Action Plan 2022 7 8 Climate Action Plan 2022 How to Use This Plan This document aims to lay the groundwork for future practitioners in Richmond to develop our home into a more resilient city that proactively addresses the economic, technological, and societal changes that the long-term threat of climate change is bringing to the world. This document represents its creators’ best eff orts to justify and describe a wide array of strategies to that end. The quickly changing nature of the ﬁ eld of climate change planning makes it inevitable that Richmond will need to periodically reassess the approaches and strategies laid out herein due to advances in society’s understanding of best practices and shifts in available administrative, technical, ﬁ scal, and political capacities in Richmond over time. The Climate Action Plan is in two parts: Adaptation and Mitigation. This breakdown allows for introductory elements of each part to focus on the background, context, and justiﬁ cation for each broad category of response. The adaptation part addresses issues already impacting Richmond residents, such as rising temperatures, damaging precipitation, and ﬂ ooding events, which are forecast to become more severe in the coming decades. The adaptation strategies in this section will improve the city’s health, quality of life, and economic outcomes in local eff orts with direct beneﬁ ts to residents, businesses, infrastructure, and the government. The mitigation part of this plan contends with the broader issue of reducing greenhouse gas emissions in Richmond to prevent further warming of the planet. Participating in the global eff ort to curtail emissions has many consequential direct and indirect, and local co-beneﬁ ts. The Plan categorizes adaptation and mitigation strategies under Approaches meant to target speciﬁ c areas for building resiliency or reducing emissions. The Symbol Key below will help the reader quickly learn more about each strategy regarding priority, the types of resources required to achieve them, and their resultant co-beneﬁ ts. Expected Partners lists organizations with which Richmond would likely coordinate in executing a given strategy. City departments should determine which strategies are best suited for their team at implementation time and use Expected Partners as a launching point. The Plan does not list the City of Richmond or speciﬁ c Departments as expected partners because it implies involvement. This Plan will serve as a road map by which the City may take action to prepare itself for present and future environmental stresses due to climate change. Its strategies provide a comprehensive array of options for the City to select as administrations and available resources change over time and speciﬁ c responses become most pressing. Climate Action Plan 2022 9 Symbol Key Readers will notice symbols associated with each strategy representing the cost, time, priority, and co-beneﬁ ts. Due to the complexity of the subject and the quickly-changing nature of this ﬁ eld, these symbols serve as the best approximation of a strategy’s characteristics, impacts, and requirements for implementation at the time of writing. Community Co-Beneﬁ t A Community Co-beneﬁ t can imply several outcomes such as increasing engagement, cohesiveness, amenities and quality of life, or ability to overcome disaster, which contributes to the overall character of a community. Equity Co-Beneﬁ t An Equity Co-beneﬁ t implies that the impacts of the strategy more heavily beneﬁ t communities and populations in Richmond that need the most help. Health Co-Beneﬁ t A Health Co-beneﬁ t arises from reduced or averted negative health impacts, such as increased air quality or decreased heat stress. Nature Co-Beneﬁ t A Nature Co-beneﬁ t improves aspects of the natural environment in Richmond. These often go on to, in turn, provide other beneﬁ ts to their surroundings. Economic Co-Beneﬁ t An Economic Co-beneﬁ t arises when implementing strategies realizes some degree of economic beneﬁ t. This could take the form of cost savings from increased effi ciency or more signiﬁ cant revenues from an increasing quality of life or other investments. Co-beneﬁ t Symbols Co-beneﬁ ts are the “win-win” elements of climate change planning. They are the beneﬁ cial side eff ects of pursuing an adaptation or mitigation strategy. 10 Climate Action Plan 2022 Infrastructure Needed Infrastructure Needed implies additional infrastructure beyond what is currently being utilized in Richmond would be needed to achieve this goal. High Reward High Reward means that upfront costs are balanced by a high return on investment. Expertise Needed Expertise Needed implies that Richmond requires speciﬁ c expertise not currently available or recognized within city departments. Time & Energy Needed Time and Energy Needed implies that a strategy requires time and energy from current departments with possible help from the county government or local nonproﬁ t groups, likely without additional resources. Staff Needed Staff Needed indicates that Richmond requires additional people-power. Possible full-time, part-time, or contract positions are likely required. Resource Symbols The Resource Symbols categorize the diff erent ways Richmond will likely have to mobilize adequate resources to accomplish a strategy. Climate Action Plan 2022 11 The ﬁ rst part of the Climate Action Plan determines the potential and reoccurring impacts of climate change, identiﬁ es vulnerable areas and people, and prescribes strategies to help the city adapt to the challenges presented. The strategies focus on managing impacts on the built environment, economic development, emergency management, energy and utilities, planning and land-use policies, and public health. As temperature, precipitation, and cases of extreme weather increase, these strategies combat both current and potential impacts to limit their adverse eff ects on the community. Part 1 Adaptation 12 Climate Action Plan 2022 Risks & Vulnerabilities: Hoosier Resilience Index (2020) In late 2020, the Richmond Environmental Sustainability Commission paired with the Indiana University Environmental Resilience Institute (ERI) to determine the community’s readiness for the eff ects of climate change. Collective feedback from various City of Richmond department heads, staff , and community representatives informed the Hoosier Resilience Index (HRI) Readiness Assessment survey. ERI created the Next Steps for Climate Resilience in Richmond, IN document (Appendix III) based on these results in May 2021. It highlights potential actions to correct self-reported deﬁ ciencies regarding preparedness for extreme heat, precipitation, and ﬂ ooding events in Richmond and Wayne County. The Adaptation Strategies in this plan used the suggested actions in the Next Steps document as their foundation. Listed below is a sample of the topics and queries presented to assessment participants throughout this process and which our strategies seek to answer: Increased stress on roadways, bridges, and transportation systems: How can we strengthen infrastructure knowing that extreme temperatures and precipitation can be destructive to concrete, pavement, and other commonly used construction materials? Increased stress on existing communication systems during extreme weather: Are systems equipped with the technology needed to communicate quickly and effi ciently with all residents during extreme weather events like high heat, ﬂ ooding, and tornadoes? Increased likelihood of climate change impacting the local economy and low-income residents: How can we protect vulnerable businesses and citizens from extreme heat, insect damage, ﬂ ooding, and other issues brought on by rising temperatures? Increased impacts on residents during and after ﬂ ood and heat events: How can residents and businesses be assisted in recovering physically and ﬁ nancially from extreme weather events? Climate Action Plan 2022 13 The Next Steps document utilized the HRI Readiness Assessment responses to score Richmond on preparedness for Extreme Heat, Extreme Precipitation, and Floodplain Management out of ten (Figure 1.) and then compared Richmond to other comparable cities that underwent the same evaluation (Figure 2.). Richmond scored below average in each category compared to other Indiana communities and similarly-sized Indiana governments. This demonstrates space for signiﬁ cant improvement in every area. A fuller understanding of both the anticipated climatic changes and where our citizens are most likely to experience them is key to taking action to increase our preparedness. LEAST PREPARED MOST PREPARED 10 5 0 Extreme Heat Readiness Score = 4.28 LEAST PREPARED MOST PREPARED 10 5 0 Extreme Precipitation Readiness Score = 4.69 LEAST PREPARED MOST PREPARED 10 5 0 Floodplain Management Readiness Score = 4.67 Figure 1. Figure 2.*Incorporated areas in Indiana designated as cities Score Categories Richmond Average, All Indiana Communities, n=15 Average, Similar-Sized* Indiana Governments, n=8 Extreme Heat 4.28 4.62 4.97 Extreme Precipitation 4.69 5.15 5.45 Floodplain Management 4.67 4.95 5.35 Indiana has warmed on average 1.2 degrees since 1895, and temperatures are projected to rise 5-6 degrees by mid-century; the number of sweltering days is projected to increase statewide signiﬁ cantly. These increases present potentially deadly challenges to the community that can be averted if planned accordingly. Figure 3. highlights the average number of days per year with highs 90°F or greater and nights with lows 68°F or greater. Central Indiana is expected to endure these extreme temperatures over three times more frequently by 2050 in a medium emissions scenario. “Medium emissions scenario” is a term used to represent the emissions level if global communities steadily reduce greenhouse gasses released into the atmosphere. “High emissions scenario” is a term used to describe the emissions level if global communities do not change and continue “business as usual.” In the high emissions scenario, extreme heat days jump to nearly four times the current number. Simply put - that’s almost two and a half months of the year in extreme heat conditions. Increased average temperatures cause changes to the timing and length of frost-free seasons, extend allergy seasons, and create favorable conditions for certain pests and invasive species. But most threatening to public health is that extreme heat events are the deadliest weather phe- nomenon in the United States. See Figure 4. Heat 14 Climate Action Plan 2022 Figure 4.(Source: https://www.weather.gov/hazstat/) Figure 3.(Source: https://hri.eri.iu.edu) Time Frame # of extreme heat events per year Current 18 2050s — Medium Emissions Scenario 60 2050s — High Emissions Scenario 74 Wayne County Climate Exposure Climate Action Plan 2022 15 Figure 5.(Source: https://hri.eri.iu.edu) Land use type Acres in the fl oodplain % of total acres in the fl oodplain Agriculture 18,880 71% Developed 5,744 22% Forest and vegetation Wetland Total Acres in ﬂ oodplain 13 0% 1,799 7% 26,436 100% Indiana’s average annual rainfall has increased by 5.6 inches since 1895, with both winter and spring seasons projected to become much wetter by 2050. Increased rainfall increases ﬂ ooding and water pollution risks such as sewage system overﬂ ow, fertilizer runoff in agricultural areas, and sediment pollution, especially in heavy rain events. Better understanding precipitation changes in summer and fall will be essential for predicting future stresses during these seasons. Though most of Richmond does not suff er from extreme regular ﬂ ooding, Wayne County ﬁ nds many of its vulnerabilities in the agriculture sector. See Figure 5. Precipitation Land use in the fl oodplain (2010) Wayne County 16 Climate Action Plan 2022 Richmond is one of two Indiana communities participating in a climate resiliency program called “Beat the Heat.” The program is grant-funded and supported by the Indiana Environmental Resilience Institute, the Indiana Offi ce of Community and Rural Aff airs, Reid Health, and the City of Richmond. The Beat the Heat program, which runs from June 2021 to June 2023, works to assist the Richmond community in creating tangible, long-term, and sustainable projects to help residents deal with an increase in hot days and the negative health impacts that accompany hotter weather. The grant funding for Beat the Heat has allowed Richmond to hire a full-time Heat Relief Coordinator, whose role consists of collaborating with community members and local organizations to lead assessments that will guide heat coping strategies and solutions. The Heat Relief Coordinator will publish them in the City’s Heat Management Plan, which will be ready in the third quarter of 2022. A city-wide heat vulnerability comment survey, heat management observations, a local heat vulnerability map, focus groups, and interviews with communities in the City that are especially vulnerable to heat all inform the strategy. With an emphasis on equity, community input from those assessments better understand where heat vulnerabilities are most prevalent and what adaptation strategies residents favor. The Heat Management Plan is set to include 24 strategies for heat wave response protocols, public outreach, home cooling, and climate responsive design projects to reduce the Urban Heat Island eff ect (UHI). The UHI eff ect is caused by impervious surfaces such as concrete, asphalt, and other facets of urban land use absorbing and retaining solar radiation more eff ectively than natural ground surfaces and trees. Climate resiliency work must focus on attainable goals using research-based methods that prioritize the most vulnerable areas and populations. GIS Coordinators from Richmond and Wayne County have produced maps that highlight infrastructure issues contributing to climate change risk. They include maps of historic and dated neighborhoods, the prevalence of impervious surfaces, and a LiDAR-based tree canopy survey to help locate where Richmond’s vulnerabilities reside. However, the most important climate vulnerability mapping exercises have been conducted in the aforementioned Beat the Heat program. On August 23rd, 2021, Richmond ran its Heat Watch Campaign. Volunteers made nearly 35 thousand temperature and humidity measurements across the city at set times in the morning, afternoon, and evening. Richmond sent the data to CAPA Strategies, which processed the information with land use data and returned heat index and temperature maps for each time of day. Figure 6. depicts the average surface temperature measured across the City of Richmond on August 23rd, 2021. Richmond’s “Beat The Heat” Program Determining Vulnerable Areas *August 23rd, 2021, Richmond “Beat the Heat” recorded heat from Walmart and the Elstro Plaza Ping-pong tables Climate Action Plan 2022 17 Figure 6. The resulting heat map demonstrates the UHI eff ect at play in Richmond. See Figure 6. Some places in Richmond are as much as seven degrees Fahrenheit warmer throughout the day on average than other places. It is essential to understand that these temperature diff er- ences result from diff erences in the City’s built environ- ment - the ratio of tree canopy cover and green-space versus concrete, brick, and asphalt - and that people living in areas with less green space will perpetually experience greater temperatures. Considering how these higher local temperatures chronically impact the health and wellbeing of residents is essential to developing equitable strategies that beneﬁ t those most in need. One way to understand how vulnerable residents are to the eff ects of extreme heat is to create a Heat Vulnerability Index (HVI). Generally speaking, the vulnerability of a population depends on how sensitive they are to the harmful impacts of heat, how much heat they are exposed to, and what capacity they have to adapt to that heat. As part of the Beat the Heat program, the Environmental Resilience Institute took socioeconomic variables from the U.S. Census’ American Communities Survey 2015-2019 Five-Year estimates and overlaid them with the heat measurements from the 2021 Heat Watch Campaign to give each census block group in the city a heat sensitivity score. The following variables were all used as part of the HVI: the percent of households with limited English proﬁ ciency; those living under the poverty line; other than White; over the age of 25 without a High School diploma; under the age of 25; over the age of 65; and over the age of 65 who live alone. Each category represents populations that are, for various reasons, disproportionately impacted by extreme heat. Modeling these variables with temperatures of census block groups creates the basis of a HVI. See Figure 7. The impacts of extreme heat are felt very diff erently across the city. Some block groups, such as the ones encompassing the housing units between Glen Miller 18 Climate Action Plan 2022 Park and Hayes Arboretum or the Hidden Valley Neighborhood, are the least aff ected by heat. Closer to downtown, in block groups spanning parts of the Depot District, North Richmond, Elizabeth Starr, and Starr Park-side neighborhoods have high heat sensitivity scores. First, second, and third priority areas represent the most vulnerable of all block groups. The Heat Map and HVI will inform the City’s Heat Management Plan and allow targeted relief to the places and people that are in the most need throughout the community. These mapping exercises focus on addressing the impacts of extreme heat because of Richmond’s existing participation in the Beat the Heat program; the city must perform separate analyses to inform responses to extreme precipitation, ﬂ ooding, and other impacts of a changing climate. Such analyses are of particular importance for the Plan’s adaptation strategies. Figure 7. Climate Action Plan 2022 19 The Climate Action Plan organizes its adaptation strategies into six approaches. These approaches direct attention to areas where Richmond ranked especially vulnerable to extreme heat, precipitation, and ﬂ ooding in the 2020 Hoosier Resilience Index Readiness Assessment. The approaches are to: Adapt the Built Environment; Prepare Economic Development Practices for a Changing Climate; Prepare Emergency Management Systems for Future Stresses; Prepare Energy and Utilities for a Changing Climate; Adopt More Sustainable Planning and Land Use Policies, and Adapt Public Health & Safety Processes. The Plan represents each strategy’s time frame, cost, priority level, and co-beneﬁ ts as approximations of what each process requires and produces within these categories. The Plan derives priority, time frame, and cost representations from survey responses of key stakeholders with insight on the implementation of each strategy. Adaptation Strategies 20 Climate Action Plan 2022 Indiana is experiencing higher maximum temperatures, more freeze-thaw cycles throughout winter months, more rain on average, and more frequent heavy rain events that lead to ﬂ ooding. These events are forecast to occur more often with time, and the likelihood of impacts on transportation networks, buildings, housing, and other developed areas will increase. The following seven strategies seek to prevent the worst of these eff ects by making targeted investments in Richmond’s built environment. Bridges and roadways are under more stress because of higher maximum temperatures due to climate change. To combat these eff ects, the City of Richmond should invest in the resiliency of its roadways. Designing roadways and bridges for higher maximum temperatures includes using heat-tolerant street landscaping and ensuring asphalt, concrete mixtures, and other construction materials are appropriate for temperature changes. Expected Partners: Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Indiana Department of Transportation, Wayne County Engineer, Wayne County Highway Department, Wayne County Surveyor Buildings, paved areas, and other impervious surfaces absorb heat from the sun and release it throughout the day and into the evening. This makes it diffi cult for residents to avoid the heat during extreme heat events and even increases ambient air temperatures. Understanding and creating solutions to reduce the harmful eff ects of temperatures on infrastructure, such as cool pavements, tree plantings, shade sails, and more, will help Richmond’s residents. Expected Partners: Community Organizations, Environmental Resilience Institute, Property and Business Owners, Reid Health, Wayne County Approach 1. Adapt the Built Environment Strategy 1A: Prepare Roadways and Bridges for Higher Maximum Temperatures and More Freeze-thaw Events Strategy 1B: Implement Programs or Activities that Reduce Heat Impacts on the Built Environment TIME COST PRIORITY TIME COST PRIORITY Climate Action Plan 2022 21CClimate Actiction o Plan 202222 221 The City of Richmond can protect systems impacted by the changing climate by regularly monitoring and evaluating its infrastructure. The comprehensive assessment of bridge openings, culverts, and ditches will prepare the city for heavier rain events and ﬂ ooding. The inspection of bridges should continue to occur every other year, and a plan should be in place to deal with bridge scour. Expected Partners: Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Indiana Department of Transportation, Wayne County Engineer, Wayne County Highway Department, Wayne County Surveyor Post-ﬂ ood policies can minimize service disruption due to damaged infrastructure. Contingency plans should be incorpo- rated into other planning eff orts, be updated regularly to remain consistent with any changes in utility services or assets, and provide response and repair services equitably across the community to proactively address the needs of the most vulnerable residents and neighborhoods. The City’s participation in the Wayne County Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan brings opportunities for FEMA Mitigation funds and tighter coordina- tion with the county emergency management agency. Expected Partners: Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Wayne County Emergency Management Agency, Wayne County Surveyor Strategy 1C: Prepare Bridge Openings, Culverts, and Ditches for Flooding Strategy 1D: Develop and Adopt Policies and Procedures for Post-fl ood Repairs TIME COST PRIORITY TIME COST PRIORITY Climate Action Plan 2022 21 22 Climate Action Plan 202222 Climatate Actition Plan 2022 Adaptive stormwater management practices like green infrastructure and low-impact development methods can help reduce runoff and stormwater ﬂ ow that may otherwise exceed system capacity. These best practices should be considered in the planning process to manage stormwater in future projects. Expected Partners: Property and Business Owners, Wayne County Engineer, Wayne County Soil & Water Conservation District, Wayne County Surveyor Traditional “gray” systems move stormwater using curbs, gutters, drains, piping, and collection systems. “Green” stormwater infrastructure (vegetation designed and planted to manage stormwater on-site) includes natural buff ers, bioretention areas (rain gardens), green roofs, swales (depressions to capture water), and the general use of vegetation instead of impervious surfaces. The City of Richmond will beneﬁ t from evaluating the performance of both types of stormwater infrastructure currently employed in the City. Expected Partners: Property and Business Owners, Wayne County Engineer, Wayne County Soil & Water Conservation District, Wayne County Surveyor One of the easiest ways to prevent or reduce surface ﬂ ooding is to ensure existing stormwater drains are not blocked. Regular street sweeping and drain maintenance schedules are one method of maintaining drainage pathways that clear stormwater from streets. These practices support Richmond’s goal to create a cleaner, safer city by reducing accidents, pollution, and water runoff . Expected Partners: Wayne County Highway Department Strategy 1E: Develop Adaptive Stormwater Management Best Practices and Integrate them into a Plan to Reduce Stormwater Runoff from Impervious Surfaces Strategy 1F: Understand and Address Green Stormwater Collection and Treatment System Weaknesses Strategy 1G: Increase Street Sweeping and Stormwater Drain Maintenance TIME COST PRIORITY TIME COST PRIORITY TIME COST PRIORITY 22 Climate Action Plan 2022 Richmond’s street sweepers removed 186 tons of debris in 2021. Did you know? Climate Action Plan 2022 23 Our business community can anticipate increased costs from extreme weather event recovery, supply chain disruptions, insurance rates, and more. Conducting a climate change economic impact analysis can help Richmond understand how the changing climate will aff ect local economic activity. Informed investment in the community and climate resiliency will help create a thriving economy in the face of future impacts. Expected Partners: Chamber of Commerce, Eastern Indiana Regional Planning Commission, Offi ce of Community and Rural Aff airs, Local Higher Education Institutions, Main Street Richmond, Indiana Economic Development Corporation, Wayne County Convention & Tourism Bureau, Economic Development Corporation of Wayne County Strategy 2A: Evaluate How Climate Change Impacts Could Affect the Local Economy TIME COST PRIORITY As various climate impacts occur with more regularity and severity, local economies will shift as communities and businesses begin off ering preparedness solutions. Tourism and recreation off erings may change, job opportunities may transition to new sectors, and residents and businesses may incur new costs and income streams. Richmond can help prepare its community for this transition by considering how the local economy will be impacted, by planning ahead, and by updating existing programs and plans to consider the coming climate reality. Approach 2. Prepare Economic Development Practices for a Changing Climate 24 Climate Action Plan 2022 While most impacts of climate change are harmful and will increase upfront or long-term costs dramatically if no preparatory activities occur, a few consequences may off er positive beneﬁ ts, such as increased tourism and recreation opportunities in certain parts of the state. Richmond should consider the totality of these impacts and account for the City’s response when outlining economic development strategies and plans. Expected Partners: Chamber of Commerce, Local Higher Education Institutions, Economic Development Corporation of Wayne County Increasing temperature, precipitation, and extreme weather events that directly and indirectly impact Indiana can cause job and opportunity losses from destabilization, disaster, and uncertainty. Richmond can facilitate connections through workforce development programs, community colleges, local chambers of commerce, and other organizations to ensure that residents seek out and ﬁ nd opportunities when these transitions are needed. Expected Partners: Chamber of Commerce, Forward Wayne County, Local Higher Education Institutions, Economic Development Corporation of Wayne County Strategy 2B: Incorporate Climate and Disaster Resilience into Economic Development Strategic Plans Strategy 2C: Consider and Plan for Implications of Climate Change on the Local Job Market TIME COST PRIORITY TIME COST PRIORITY Over 44% of respondents said they would not be able to aff ord home repairs after a natural disaster. Survey Fact! Climate Action Plan 2022 25 As sea levels rise and hurricanes, droughts, and other extreme weather events increase in severity, cities, and towns in Indiana can expect new residents from areas aff ected by these events. The City of Richmond should create a plan of action to handle potential inﬂ uxes of new residents. This plan could help adequately meet the needs of new residents and the people of Richmond alike in times of emergency. Expected Partners: Continuum of Care, Faith Institutions, Housing Authority, Richmond Community Schools, United Way of Whitewater Valley, Wayne County Foundation The same residents who are most vulnerable to extreme weather events are often the least able to aff ord the resources necessary to recover from them. To prevent residents from being disproportionately aff ected by climate hazards, Richmond should dedicate thoughtful planning, funding, and assistance with equity at the forefront. Expected Partners: Faith Institutions, Wayne County EMA, Wayne County Health Department, Wayne County Trustee Strategy 2E: Develop a Plan for Accepting People Displaced by Climate Change Impacts Strategy 2D: Establish a Protocol for Providing Assistance to Residents Facing Financial Strain From Climate Hazards TIME COST PRIORITY TIME COST PRIORITY 26 Climate Action Plan 2022 Emergency management planning and training already exist in counties across Indiana, among numerous local, state, and private entities. However, the increasing frequency and strength of extreme weather events brought on by climate change can stress a community’s capacity to respond and exacerbate existing vulnerabilities. As local governments face these threats and hazards, eff ective emergency management is more critical than ever. Approach 3. Prepare Emergency Management Systems for Future Stresses Heatwaves can cause roadways and pavement to buckle, power lines to sag, and other infrastructure failures. Determining what infrastructure systems are most vulnerable to higher temperatures can help Richmond better invest in and protect the city’s critical infrastructure to more eff ectively respond to or avoid failures altogether. Obtaining an evaluation from an engineering ﬁ rm is a good ﬁ rst step for a comprehensive analysis. Richmond has already begun investing in infrastructure by replacing overhead electricity lines with a more resilient, underground alternative. Expected Partners: Broadband Providers, CenterPoint Energy, Indiana American Water, INDOT, Indiana Municipal Power Agency, Whitewater Valley Rural Electric Membership Corpora- tion, Richmond Power & Light, State of Indiana, Wayne County Commissioners, Wayne County Highway Department, Duke Energy Strategy 3A: Identify and Protect Critical Infrastructure from Higher Temperatures TIME COST PRIORITY Richmond survey respondents were most concerned with the impacts of extreme heat when asked about climate issues. Survey Fact! Climate Action Plan 2022 27Climate Action PPlan 2022 27 Involving the on-site managers of critical facilities and community infrastructure can ensure that these individuals understand the increasing threats posed by the changing climate and prepare for and respond to extreme temperatures. Increasing their involvement and the involvement of ﬁ rst responders such as ﬁ re and police will increase overall preparedness. Expected Partners: Indiana American Water, Whitewater Valley Rural Electric Membership Corporation, Richmond Fire Department, Wayne County Sheriff ’s Department, Richmond Power & Light, Wayne County Highway Department As extreme heat events become more frequent and severe, Richmond can beneﬁ t from taking steps in advance to increase individual household preparedness. The City of Richmond can increase household preparedness by educating residents on protocol surrounding potential emergencies. With a better understanding of these emergencies, residents of Richmond can be more prepared for the future and feel conﬁ dent in their safety. Expected Partners: Amigos Richmond Latino Center, Wayne County Emergency Management Agency, Richmond Fire Department, Reid Health, Wayne County Health Department, Wayne County Purdue Extension As the likelihood of extreme heat events increases, individuals with special circumstances such as language and cultural barriers, health issues, and strained incomes, may face diffi culties that make preparing for and responding to heat more challenging. Richmond pushes for various organizations and entities to work together through communication, coordination of eff orts, and effi cient use of resources to build a resilient community support system. Expected Partners: Faith Institutions, Housing Authority, Local Non-proﬁ ts, Neighborhood and Community Services, Wayne County Emergency Management Agency, Wayne County Health Department, Wayne County Purdue Extension Strategy 3B: Involve Critical Faculty and Emergency Infrastructure Managers in Climate Change Preparedness and Management Strategy 3C: Educate Residents about Steps they Can Take to Improve Personal Emergency Preparedness Strategy 3D: Enhance Community Networks and Connections for Vulnerable Communities TIME COST PRIORITY TIME COST PRIORITY TIME COST PRIORITY Climate Action Plan 2022 27 28 Climate Action Plan 2022 Increasing temperatures and heavy precipitation events can overwhelm the energy grid. Identifying backup power supply, reducing building energy needs, and investing in solar and other distributed energy sources can make the grid more resilient. Ensuring continuity in the energy supply can be a matter of life and death. The following strategies will make energy and utility infrastructure more resilient to a changing climate. Approach 4. Prepare Energy and Utilities for a Changing Climate There are many initiatives that Richmond can implement to decrease the risk of power outages during and after storms. For example, local offi cials can run internal and community-wide programs to support energy effi ciency or meet with electricity and natural gas providers to express their interest and concern in decreasing power supply issues due to the threats of climate change. Working with the local utility can help ensure that Richmond handles energy effi ciency, grid management, and energy availability in the most environmentally responsible and prudent way possible. Expected Partners: : Centerpoint Energy, Indiana American Water, Indiana Municipal Power Agency, Richmond Power & Light, Duke Energy, County Commissioners, Wayne County Highway Department Strategy 4A: Identify and Protect Critical Infrastructure from Higher Temperatures TIME COST PRIORITY Climate Action Plan 2022 29 Alternative energy and energy storage systems, combined with decentralized micro-grids, off er resilience to extreme weather events, whereas traditional power generation systems can lead to widespread blackouts. Diversifying energy sources and storage in Richmond can help increase reliability within the city. As Richmond works to advance storage systems and energy distribution, solar generation has grown and will increase further. Expected Partners: Indiana Municipal Power Agency, Non-Proﬁ ts, Richmond Power & Light Most critical facilities and systems rely on energy to operate. Power grids are likely to fail during and after extreme weather, rendering critical infrastructure unusable. Richmond can better prepare for severe weather and its eff ects on energy by investing in backup power sources. These can include battery-stored backup power, solar power, or other renewable energy systems and working with RP&L to increase distributed generation installations. Expected Partners: Local Utilities, State or Federal Government Low-income residents might not have access to air conditioning or struggle to aff ord it as the number and severity of high heat events increases. These residents might also struggle to keep up with energy costs during recurrent cold snaps. Currently, some programs exist to provide assistance with bills and ensure heat in the colder winter months. As increasing temperatures create more extreme heat days, Richmond can implement measures to reduce these impacts and consider the need for funding assistance, focusing on heat relief in the summer months. Expected Partners: Interlocal Community Action Program, Wayne Township Trustee’s Offi ce Strategy 4B: Encourage Alternative Energy Generation, Energy Storage Systems, and Distributed Energy Strategy 4C: Install Back-up Power Options for Critical Facilities and Systems Strategy 4D: Establish a Protocol for Providing Assistance to Residents who Face Financial Strain Caused by Higher Energy Costs TIME COST PRIORITY TIME COST PRIORITY TIME COST PRIORITY 30 Climate Action Plan 2022 Local governments can integrate readiness initiatives into their everyday activities and create voluntary programs to encourage the private sector to prepare for climate change impacts. While these initiatives help a community start to think about the gravity of more frequent heatwaves and ﬂ oods and their downstream eff ects, it often takes regulatory mechanisms and long-term planning to comprehensively address local climate vulnerabilities. Approach 5. Adopt More Sustainable Planning and Land Use Policies The EPA’s “Flood Resilience Checklist” checklist includes overall strategies to improve ﬂ ood resilience and speciﬁ c strategies to conserve land and discourage development in river corridors. These include protecting people, businesses, and facilities in vulnerable settlements; directing development to safer areas; and implementing and coordinating stormwater management practices throughout the whole watershed. Expected Partners: Wayne County Emergency Management Agency Strategy 5A: Complete the US EPA’s Flood Resilience Checklist TIME COST PRIORITY Over 90% of survey respondents want to see more trees planted in Richmond. Survey Fact! Climate Action Plan 2022 31CClimate AActicton Plaan 2022 31 The National Flood Insurance Program’s (NFIP) Community Rating System (CRS) is a voluntary incentive program off ered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) that recognizes and encourages community ﬂ oodplain management activities that exceed the minimum requirements. Expected Partners: Wayne County Emergency Management Agency The presence of an extensive tree canopy is associated with measurable decreases in air temperature compared to areas without dense tree cover, among many other kinds of beneﬁ ts. This aligns with Richmond’s Beat the Heat program, which furthers the central goal of helping residents understand and respond to an increase in hot days and the negative impacts of hotter weather. Richmond has been recognized as a Tree City USA and could do so again. Expected Partners: Arbor Day Foundation, Local Non-proﬁ ts, Indiana Department of Natural Resources This adaptation strategy supports Richmond’s goal of conserving resources and protecting the city’s natural environment through guiding growth and redevelopment. The city can adopt vegetation protection areas or zones to designate sections of land to be restored or kept for plants. Expected Partners: Community members, businesses Strategy 5B: Participate in the National Flood Insurance Program Community Rating System Strategy 5C: Pass a Tree Canopy Ordinance Strategy 5D: Designate Vegetation Protection Areas TIME COST PRIORITY TIME COST PRIORITY TIME COST PRIORITY Climate Action Plan 2022 31 32 Climate Action Plan 2022333332222223333323233333222 33333322333222233322223332222233222333222222333222222223322222222322222222233322222222233332222222222233332222222222333333222222222333222222233332223322333233333333222 CCCliCliCliCCCClCliCliCCliCliCliCliClillCliCliClCliCliCliiiCCliCCliCCliClCliCliCliCliCliiCliClCliCCliClCClCliCliCCliCliCCliClilliCliiiClClCCliCliClilClCliliiCClliiCCliCliCliCCClCliiiCliiCCCllCliiiiCCliliCCliiiCCCliClilCliliCCClClliiCCClCCCliCClCCCllCCCliliCCClllCCliClCClllCClCCmmmmmamammmmmmamaatatatmatatatatattatatmmmaatattatmmmmmamatttmmmmmmmmaatmatmmmmmmmamamatatmamamamammmmmmmmamataaataamaamatmmmmmmmmmamatatmatataaammmmmaataaatmmmmmmmmmmmmatmatmataammmmmmmaaatmmmmmmmaamammmmmmmmaaaatmmmmmaaatmmmmmmmmmaattmmmmmatmmmmmmmmmmmmatmmmmmmmmmatatmmmmmmmmmamatmmmmmmatatmmmmmmmattttmmmmmmmmttttteee AeAeAeeAeAeAeee A AeAeAeAe AAAAAAAAAAAeAeeAeAeeAe Ae AeAe AeAAAAAAee AeAeAeAAAAAAAAAAee AeAAAAAAAAAAAAAeeAAAAAAAAAAeAe AeAeAAAAAAAAeAAAAAAeAAAAeAAAAAAAAAeeAeAe AeAAAAAAAAAAAAAeee AeAAAe AAAAAAeAeeAeeAe AAAAAAAAAAeeeeAeeAAAAAAeAAAAAAAee eAAAAAeAAeAAAAAeee eAAAAAeAAAAAAAee AeeAAAAAAAAAeAAeeAeAAAAAAAeeAAAAAAeeee e AAAAeeeeeAAeeeeeAAeeeeAAAAAeeeAee AAectctictictictitictictctctcccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccctccccccccccccccccccccccccccttttcccccctttononononon nnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn nnnn n nnnnnnonnnn n nnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn PPPPPlaPlaPlaPlaPlaPlaPlaPlalaPlaPlaPlaPPPlPlaPlaPPPPPPPlaPPPPPPPPPPPPPPlaaPPPPPPPlaPPPPPPlaaPPPPPlaPPaPlaPPlaPPlaPPPPaPPlaPPPPlaPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPnn n2n 222n 2222222222222222n n2n 2222222n 222n 2n 22n 22222222n 2222222222222222n 22222n 2222222222222222222n nn 22222n2222222222nn n 2222222200000000200002222222222222222222222220000002222222222222220022222222222222220020222222222222200022222222222222222000000222222222222220022222222222222000022222222222000222222222222000002222222000222222222022222222222002222222002222222200222222000022222200000222220002220222220022220002220000 As buildings and vehicles operate, they release waste heat contributing to nearby temperatures. Increasing effi ciency and limiting waste could help Richmond manage rising temperatures while creating higher productivity within the energy sector. Richmond could connect businesses and other entities to grant programs that can help implement these upgrades. Expected Partners: US Environmental Protection Agency, Wayne County Commissioners, Wayne County Purdue Extension Preparing for the impacts of climate change is expensive, but responding to events worsened by it will likely be pricier than being proactive. Financing can draw from public and private sources, including state and federal grant funding, working through public-private partnerships, private foundations, and local taxes and fees, among other options. Expected Partners: Economic Development Corporation of Wayne County Strategy 5E: Promote Energy Effi ciency and Waste Heat Reduction Strategy 5F: Integrate Funding for Readiness Actions into Financial Planning TIME COST PRIORITY TIME COST PRIORITY Climate Action Plan 2022 33 As higher temperature and heatwaves become more common in Indiana, these and other changes lead to improved habitat for disease-carrying vectors. Hospitals, doctor’s offi ces, public health departments, local governments, and partner organizations will see an increased need for general education and health services. More frequent ﬂ oods and extreme weather events can lead to more indoor air pollution issues. Predicted temperature increases can lead to more incidences of heat illness and more days with unhealthy outdoor air quality. To alleviate the corresponding impacts on human health, local governments can increase public education, take steps to understand the threats better, and design strategies and plans. Approach 6. Adapt Public Health & Safety Processes As temperatures continue to rise, Indiana will likely experience more days with unhealthy air pollution4. Educating Richmond residents about the health risks of poor air quality, and having an eff ective air pollution warning system in place, can reduce the adverse health impacts of air pollution. Expected Partners: Local Higher Education Institutions, Local Schools, Reid Health, Local Health Care Institutions, Wayne County Emergency Management Agency, Wayne County Health Department Strategy 6A: Provide Air Quality Education and Advanced Warning Systems for High Pollution Days TIME COST PRIORITY 34 Climate Action Plan 202234 Climate e Action Plan 2022 The City of Richmond can advise residents of things they can do on high air pollution days to limit local emissions and encourage them to protect their health and the community’s health. It is also vital for Richmond to have policies to curtail high-emitting activities, especially on “bad air” days. The combination of public and private action can help prevent and limit the harmful eff ects of air pollution within the city. Expected Partners: Wayne County Emergency Management Agency, Wayne County Health Department The best way to reduce the risk of illness from poor air quality is to prevent poor air quality in the ﬁ rst place. While much air pollution is regional, the City of Richmond can limit local sources of dust, soot, and smog-forming pollutants. The reduction of local emissions can improve local air quality. Expected Partners: Indiana Department of Environmental Management, Wayne County Council Strategy 6B: Provide Air Quality Education and Advanced Warning Systems for High Pollution Days Strategy 6C: Develop Local Air Pollution Reduction Programs TIME COST PRIORITY TIME COST PRIORITY 34 Climate Action Plan 202234 Climate Action Plan 2022 Climate Action Plan 2022 35 Mitigation, in the framework of climate change preparation, includes actions taken by groups to reduce the amount of greenhouse gasses emitted through a variety of sectors. Every sector of Richmond’s greenhouse gas inventory has room for reduction. For example, the City can work to reduce emissions from energy by shifting the energy portfolio used in Richmond away from fossil fuels and increasing the energy effi ciency of local buildings and facilities. To minimize the negative impacts of global climate change, communities and organizations must work to reduce emissions in applicable sectors. This part of the Plan contains an overview of Richmond’s 2018 greenhouse gas inventory, an overview of forecasted emissions in a business as usual scenario, and details on various recommended strategies the City of Richmond can pursue to reduce community-scale emissions. While the beneﬁ ts of reducing greenhouse gas emissions are primarily felt globally, their pursuit yields many important co-beneﬁ ts that improve residents’ lived experiences. The City should consider the impact of these strategies with special emphasis given to these co-beneﬁ ts and how they complement other strategies, plans, and goals. Part 2 Mitigation 36 Climate Action Plan 2022 Current Emissions: GHG Inventory (2018) The ﬁ rst step toward reducing a community’s emissions is to conduct a greenhouse gas inventory. This is the process of selecting a baseline year and calculating the quantity and source of greenhouse gasses emitted in a community. As part of Indiana University’s Resilience Cohort, Richmond received support from the Environmental Resilience Institute and ICLEI USA, which included one-on-one guidance, training webinars, and the opportunity to apply for additional staff capacity. In 2019, Richmond completed data collection and analysis for the city’s Greenhouse Inventory, providing a picture of emissions created by Richmond’s residents, businesses, and institutions over the 2018 calendar year. The Greenhouse Gas Inventory categorized emissions as coming from energy, transportation, solid waste, water & wastewater, and upstream impacts. See Figure 8. Richmond’s Greenhouse Gas Inventory Report may be found in full as Appendix IV and is an important partner piece to this Plan; a summary follows. Figure 8. Richmond Greenhouse Gas Inventory Report Electricity 680,000 81.3% Transportation 86,300 10.3% Solid Waste 29,590 3.5% Grid Loss 28,600 3.4% Water 11,690 1.4% 838,000 Metric Tons of CO²e in 2018 Metric Tons of CO²e Climate Action Plan 2022 37 Energy is by far the largest emission sector for Richmond. In 2018, the energy sector comprised 81.3% of Richmond’s total greenhouse emissions; electricity accounted for 82.5%, and natural gas accounted for 17.5%. Transportation as a whole made up 10.3% of Richmond’s total emissions in 2018. The main contributors in this sector include on-road passenger transportation, freight transportation, public transit, aviation, railways, and off -road sources. Solid waste made up approximately 4% of Richmond’s 2018 emissions. The contributors include municipal solid waste, industrial solid waste, landﬁ ll gas ﬂ aring, and solid waste collection and transportation. Municipal solid waste produced over 90% of emissions within this section. Upstream impacts include “fugitive emissions” from energy loss during electricity transmission and distribution. The U.S. EIA (Energy Information Administration) estimates that about 5% of electricity nationwide is lost to grid loss. In Richmond, the lower-than-average grid loss translates into 28,600 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e). Water and wastewater processes are the most minor contributor to Richmond’s emissions, accounting for less than two percent of the total emission number. In this sector, emissions are produced mainly through wastewater treatment and potable water treatment. A critical ﬁ nding is that Richmond’s emissions are well above the average per capita nationwide. See Figure 9. The city’s above-average emissions demonstrate the opportunity for eff ective mitigation measures. Before describing strategies to mitigate our emissions, it is helpful to extrapolate emissions into the future. Figure 9.*All data is from 2016, except Richmond, IN, which is from 20I8. Average Annual Emissions Per Capita by City*Metric Tons of CO²e 23.57 Richmond. IN 16.06 National Avg.St. Louis: 30.39Cleveland: 29.96Indianapolis: 25.41Richmond, I N: 23.57Lake Forest, IL: 20.77Nashville: 18.08Iowa City: 17.69National Avg.: 16.06Houston: 15.22Richmond, VA: 14.47Detroit: 14Denver: 13.47Columbus: 13.14Chicago: 12.32Minneapolis: 11.77St. Louis 30.39 Minneapolis 11.77 38 Climate Action Plan 2022 Forecast of Richmond’s Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Trends Understanding the current forecasted trend of emissions in Richmond is essential to plan for greenhouse gas reductions. Data from a variety of sources on population, transportation, and energy was input into the Clearpath software to understand Richmond’s projected emissions through 2050 in a business-as-usual scenario. According to US Census data, Richmond has lost population each decade since 1960-1970. Since this trend continued with the publication of the 2020 census, a rate of -4% every ten years was applied to the forecast. Other pertinent factors applied to the emissions forecast were grid electricity intensity changes from the construction of Richmond’s current solar parks and default effi ciency standard changes for vehicles. Assumptions about the City’s population and total building square footage through territorial annexations were not considered for this forecast. Figure 10. shows that the recent and ongoing solar park construction in Richmond has the most signiﬁ cant impact on projected emissions, speciﬁ cally lowering levels within the energy sectors. However, Richmond must actively policies and projects to lower emissions to achieve the City’s reduction goals. Richmond applied a 35% reduction goal by 2035 and 80% by 2050 in the Clearpath software. Forecasted emissions are nearing the 35% goal by 2035 but are much further from the 80% goal by 2050. The following approaches describe the City’s strategies toward mitigating climate change by more aggressively addressing emissions to meet each goal. Figure 10. Climate Action Plan 2022 39 The Climate Action Plan’s organizes its Mitigation Strategies into seven approaches that impact each emissions sector from the 2019 greenhouse gas inventory. They include: Decarbonize Energy Generation; Increase Energy Effi ciency; Effi ciently Manage Solid Waste; Reduce Annular Vehicular Miles Traveled; Encourage Energy Effi ciency of Vehicles; Effi ciently Manage Potable Water; and Effi ciently Manage Liquid Waste. Greenhouse gas mitigation is a wide-ranging approach to climate action that includes many potential methods. Each mitigation strategy consists of a brief description and the time, cost, emissions impact, aff ected sectors, co-beneﬁ ts, and expected partners. Proposed strategies in this section do not represent all possible ways to reduce community-scale emissions but instead describe a framework for Richmond to begin taking action. The Plan derives priority, time frame, and cost representations from survey responses of key stakeholders with insight on the implementation of each strategy. Mitigation Strategies 40 Climate Action Plan 2022 As most of Richmond’s greenhouse gas emissions come from the energy sector, reducing emissions in these sectors is crucial. Richmond’s primary energy providers are the Indiana Municipal Power Agency (IMPA) and CenterPoint Energy. The City of Richmond should advocate for these utilities to diversify and decarbonize their fuel mixes and aid in citizen-led, on-site renewable energy projects within Richmond outside of the utility-scale to continue decarbonization. Approach 7. Decarbonize Energy Generation As energy in the form of electricity and natural gas accounts for more than 80% of Richmond’s emissions, reducing the carbon intensity of that energy has the potential to make the most signiﬁ cant of all potential reductions in the City’s emissions. RP&L has a sole provider power agreement with IMPA until 2042. Without decarbonization from local energy providers, IMPA, CenterPoint, and Duke Energy, Richmond has little direct control over this portion of the City’s emissions. Richmond’s focus should be actively advocating at the state and federal levels for increased tax credit and carbon tax usage to help push utility-scale changes. Sector Impacted: Commercial Electricity, Commercial Natural Gas, Industrial Electricity, Industrial Natural Gas, Residential Electricity, Residential Natural Gas, Potable Water Treatment, Wastewater Treatment Expected Partners: CenterPoint Energy, Federal Legislature, IMPA, Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission, State Legislature, Duke Energy, Whitewater Valley Rural Electric Membership Corporation Reduction Method: Lower carbon intensity and emissions from non-fossil fuel energy sources. Strategy 7A: Advocate for Increased Renewable Energy Sources in Richmond’s Local Energy Portfolio TIME COST EMISSION IMPACT The Whitewater Valley Station in the south of Richmond is set to operate as a peaking station so long as market conditions allow, and operated for only 40 days in 2021. Did you know? Climate Action Plan 2022 41 The city should advocate for and encourage increased on-site energy generation options for the community, making it clear that Richmond supports and promotes these options and provides helpful materials for interested property owners. Richmond can partner with organizations like RP&L and others to communicate opportunities and advantages regularly. Solar generation systems for commercial and residential customers are reviewed and inspected by RP&L, but more incentives and education can further increase solar generation. Sector Impacted: Commercial Electricity, Industrial Electricity, Residential Electricity Expected Partners: Chamber of Commerce, Economic Development Corporation, IMPA, Richmond Power & Light, Solar Installers, Solarize East Central Indiana, SolSmart Reduction Method: On site renewable generation lowers the demand for more carbon-intensive grid energy. As local development continues, the City of Richmond should evaluate and implement best practices to integrate renewable energy generation into new development guidelines. Requirements, incentives, or credits similar to how the Uniﬁ ed Development Ordinance currently addresses tree preservation may incentivize developments that generate renewable energy on-site in subdivisions, Planned Unit Developments (PUDs), or commercial areas. Planners should be careful that solar generation supplements economic growth and does not come at its expense. Sector Impacted: Commercial Energy, Industrial Energy, Residential Energy Expected Partners: SolSmart Reduction Method: Ensuring that individual developments account for at least a portion of their required energy usage can further minimize reliance on the energy grid and reduce emissions when utilizing renewable energy generation methods. Strategy 7B: Connect Residents and Businesses with on-site Solar Opportunities Strategy 7C: Integrate Renewable Energy into Land Use and Zoning Codes TIME COST EMISSION IMPACT TIME COST EMISSION IMPACT Climate Action Plan 2022 41 42 Climate Action Plan 20224222222424242222222224222224242224242224222222444222442222242424222224242422222242222222 CliClCliCliliiiiiCiiliiClilliiiCiiCiClCliCCliliiiCliCliCliClliCliCCliClliiiCliCCCCmatmatmatmatmatmatmamamamatmatmatmatmatmmatmattmatmatamatmatmatamatmmatmatmatmatmatatmmmatmataamatmmatmatmataamatmmamatmmatatattmmtmme Aee Ae Ae AAAAAAAAe AAAe AAAeA AAeAe Ae AAe Ae eAeAAAAeAeAAeAAAAeAAAAAAeAAeAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAActictictictictictititictictictictitictctctictictictctictiictitiitiiicicctiiictitiiiictitiiiictiiiiiiononononon on on on on onon onon onononoon oonnooonnnnnnnn non nonoon PlPlaPlPlalllalllalalalaaaaalaaaaPlllaaPlaPPllllaallllallalaPlllaPlalalallallPlaaPPllaaaaaPPPaPPPPPPaPaaaaaaaaannnn 2n2n 2n22n22n2n2n2nnnn2n2n2n2n2n22nn22n2n2nnn2nnnnn2nnn222nnn2nnnnnnnnnnnnnn2nnn 2nnnnn02202202202202200222022222022022022022022022022222022220220220220220202202202200220222220222002202222222022222222222022222222 To fully ensure that the community adopts on-site solar energy projects, Richmond should ensure that the City’s planning, zoning, permitting, and inspection processes eff ectively achieve compliance with codes while minimizing unnecessary barriers for property owners. Richmond is on track to obtain SolSmart Silver certiﬁ cation in early 2022. Pushing for Gold certiﬁ cation beyond that would make it even easier for residents to install solar panels on their homes. Partnering with local Homeowners Associations is key to increasing solar development. Sector Impacted: Residential Electricity Expected Partners: Builders, SolSmart Reduction Method: On site renewable generation lowers the demand for more carbon-intensive grid energy. Richmond should research and adopt ways to encourage property owners and developers to utilize these energy sources on their properties to increase on-site renewable adoption. Tax abatements or up-front ﬁ nancing may be an eff ective way to eliminate or reduce ﬁ nancial barriers to these projects. Collaboration between RP&L and energy consumers is important in creating impactful incentives. Richmond can explore making energy generation a requirement for businesses receiving tax abatements or providing up-front ﬁ nancing for renewable energy improvements to properties. Sector Impacted: Commercial Electricity, Industrial Electricity Expected Partners: Indiana Finance Authority, Offi ce of Community and Rural Aff airs, United States Department of Agriculture, Economic Development Corporation of Wayne County Reduction Method: On site renewable generation lowers the demand for more carbon-intensive grid energy. Strategy 7D: Eliminate Barriers to Residential Solar Development Strategy 7E: Develop Local Incentives for Renewable Energy Projects TIME COST EMISSION IMPACT TIME COST EMISSION IMPACT Richmond’s ﬁ ve solar parks generated 49,301 megawatt hours of electricity in 2021. Did you know? Climate Action Plan 2022 43 Because many homes in Richmond are older, the City should do all it can to reduce the utility burden for its most vulnerable citizens. Weatherization programs provide residents with the means to eff ectively seal their homes from the elements, helping them retain heat and cooling. This reduces wasted energy and better protects people from the elements. While not having a relatively high impact on emissions, this strategy signiﬁ cantly and positively impacts disadvantaged residents with a disproportionately high energy burden. The cost for this program would increase to “medium” if the programming included off ering ﬁ nancial assistance from the city. Sector Impacted: Residential Electricity, Residential Natural Gas Expected Partners: Interlocal Community Action Program, Independent Living Center of Eastern Indiana, Indiana Housing Community Development Authority, People Working Cooperatively Reduction Method: Helps eliminate energy sinks in buildings, reducing demand for grid energy. Strategy 8A: Connect Residents with Home Weatherization Opportunities TIME COST EMISSION IMPACT While reducing the carbon intensity of energy is vital in reducing overall emissions, lowering the amount of energy needed to power and heat homes and businesses is also essential. Richmond has an old building stock, mainly in the residential sector, and ﬁ nding the best ways to keep these buildings effi cient will provide many beneﬁ ts. Approach 8. Increase Energy Effi ciency 44 Climate Action Plan 2022 The city should strive to encourage residents to conserve energy in their daily lives to reduce overall consumption in the residential energy sector. Local utilities have developed materials on energy effi ciency related to the energy they produce; the City can aggregate relevant materials and develop other standardized materials and programming, and partner with media organizations to advocate for energy effi ciency programs. Sector Impacted: Residential Electricity, Residential Natural Gas Expected Partners: Amigos Richmond Latino Center, IMPA, Richmond Power & Light, Wayne County Purdue Extension Reduction Method: Helps reduce energy usage in buildings, reducing demand for grid energy. Energy benchmarking is the practice of tracking and assessing energy usage in buildings compared to others of similar age, build, and composition to identify room for improvement. Organizations use this information to identify areas where energy usage can be conserved. The City can assist businesses that would like to begin benchmarking and eventually evaluate the possibility of requiring benchmarking for commercial buildings over a speciﬁ c size within jurisdictional boundaries. Richmond should start benchmarking with software such as Portfolio Manager in city-owned facilities as a proof of concept and conduct cost-beneﬁ t analyses of oversight costs versus energy savings before exploring any such ordinance. Sector Impacted: Commercial Electricity, Commercial Natural Gas, Industrial Electricity Expected Partners: Local Businesses and Manufacturers, US Environmental Protection Agency Reduction Method: Helps set energy use targets and reduce energy usage, reducing demand for grid energy. Strategy 8B: Provide Residents with Energy Effi ciency Education Strategy 8C: Explore Opportunities for Commercial Energy Benchmarking TIME COST EMISSION IMPACT TIME COST EMISSION IMPACT Hospitals in the United States rank as some of the highest energy consumers in the world. Did you know? Climate Action Plan 2022 45CllClCliCliCliClCliCliClClCliCliCliCliCliCCliCliiClitttmatmatmatmattmatmatmatatatmatmaAAAAAAAAAAAAAAeAAAAeAAAeAAeAAAeAeAeAAAAe Ae AeAeAAA itictictictictctctictictictictictiononononoononon on llPllPlPlPPlPlaPlaPlaPlaPlaPPlaPPlaaaa 2n22222nnnnn22nn 222nn n 222n 220222222202220222200222220202222222222020202 4445554454545444545 The city should encourage property owners to pursue energy audits on their buildings and partner with RP&L to increase participation in this program. RP&L currently off ers audits for residential and commercial customers. The city should work with RP&L to expand advertising and participation in this program and implement best practices after audit results. This strategy synergizes with weatherization advocacy. Sector Impacted: Residential Energy, Commercial Energy Expected Partners: Property and Business Owners, Richmond Power & Light Reduction Method: Helps reduce energy sinks in buildings, reducing demand for grid energy. Richmond has minimal local authority because it must utilize Indiana building codes that follow international standards. The City administration should advocate as it is able for the IBC (International Building Code), IRC (International Residential Code), and IPC (International Plumbing Code) requirements to implement more stringent effi ciency standards for new construction and relevant renovation projects. Sector Impacted: Residential Energy, Commercial Energy, Industrial Energy Expected Partners: Indiana Association of Building Offi cials, State Legislature Reduction Method: Reduces energy needed for buildings to operate, reducing demand for grid energy. Strategy 8D: Increase Energy Effi ciency Audits in Buildings Strategy 8E: Advocate for Building Code Updates to Increase Energy Effi ciency Requirements TIME COST EMISSION IMPACT TIME COST EMISSION IMPACT Climate Action Plan 2022 45 Energy effi ciency ranked highest as a strategy to combat climate change and improve quality of life for survey respondents. Survey Fact! 46 Climate Action Plan 202246464646 CliCliliCmmmatmmate Ae Ae Acttittittiititiiictititititiitititititttititttiititiitiitiittiiittitttittiitititiittittittiitttiiiiiiitiiiitiiiooooooononon noooooooooon on noooooooooooon on ooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooonoooooooooooooooooooononoooo ooooooo ooooooooooonooooooo aPPlPlPlPlllllllaPlaPaaaPPPllalaPlaPPPllaaPPllllPlaPPPPPlllPllaPPPPPPllPPPPlaPPPPlllPlllPPlaPPPlPPPPlPPPaPaaPPPlllPPPPPlPPllPPPPaPPPllaPllaPPn 2n 2n 2n n nn 2222222222n 22222222222n22n 222nn 22222n 222222222nn2022022022 The city should strive to continue seeking effi ciencies before expecting citizens to do the same. Implementing energy benchmarking in city-owned buildings and then utilizing ﬁ ndings to upgrade lights and ﬁ xtures will provide a practical model and training for future projects. RP&L is willing to perform energy audits with all city departments to generate this data. Partnering with RP&L can help the City of Richmond understand consumption and ﬁ nd opportunities to increase effi ciency. Sector Impacted: Energy Expected Partners: Environmental Protection Agency, Offi ce of Rural and Community Aff airs, Richmond Power & Light, United States Department of Agriculture Reduction Method: More effi cient operations within City buildings and facilities can decrease the energy needed, driving emissions reduction upstream from power generation and delivery across the local grid. The Energy Information Administration estimates that, as electricity is transmitted and distributed throughout the grid, around 5% of it is lost7. RP&L actively rebuilds circuits and considers improving electrical effi ciency and reducing system losses a priority. Richmond’s proactive approach to upgrading this infrastructure manifests in only a 2.9% grid loss, and the City should encourage this practice. Upgrading transformers and substations have the most impact. Sector Impacted: Energy Expected Partners: Indiana Municipal Power Agency, Richmond Power & Light Reduction Method: Helps reduce energy and emissions lost when transporting it across the grid. Strategy 8F: Incorporate Increased Energy Effi ciency into City Operations Strategy 8G: Continue Upgrading Energy Transmission Infrastructure to Reduce Grid Loss TIME COST EMISSION IMPACT TIME COST EMISSION IMPACT The average American home uses about 11,000 kilowatt hours of electricity per year. Did you know? Climate Action Plan 2022 47 A signiﬁ cant amount of municipal solid waste is compostable material such as food waste and yard trimmings. Diverting these materials from the landﬁ ll, either by working with households to set up composting on an individual property or scaling up to a curbside pickup or neighborhood drop-off program, can signiﬁ cantly reduce the amount of material being put into the landﬁ ll every year. Richmond could implement a small-scale pilot program pending analysis of costs and beneﬁ ts. Currently, leaves are composted and promote vegetation growth on landﬁ ll cells, while the brush is ground and spread on slopes to aid erosion control. A permit modiﬁ cation and increased vector reduction methods would be needed to compost food waste. Anything on a large scale, such as curbside collection, would require signiﬁ cant changes to equipment and personnel. Sector Impacted: Solid Waste Expected Partners: Local Schools, Local Businesses Reduction Method: Diverts waste from the landﬁ ll, reducing emissions from material decomposition within the landﬁ ll. Strategy 9A: Explore Feasibility for Various Compost Scales and Methods TIME COST EMISSION IMPACT Richmond Sanitary District has complete jurisdiction over solid waste management within city limits. Diverting materials that often go to the landﬁ ll can be achieved through increased recycling and composting programs. Other methods to reduce emissions from solid waste come from reducing emissions from materials already within the landﬁ ll and reducing emissions related to the transportation of solid waste. Care is needed to ensure that projects related to landﬁ ll diversion eff ectively reduce greenhouse gas emissions rather than diverting emissions from one sector to another by, for example, introducing routes for compost pickups that don’t result in net negative emissions. Approach 9. Effi ciently Manage Solid Waste 48 Climate Action Plan 2022 The New Paris Pike landﬁ ll burned ~240,480,000 cubic ft of gas in 2018, approximately 50% of which was methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Exploring technology to capture this methane and utilize it for heating or generation will help reduce the 630 MT of CO2e generated from burning it off . Indiana has several communities currently utilizing this strategy. A cost-beneﬁ t analysis of this project is essential to understand its feasibility, given the high up-front cost. Sector Impacted: Municipal Solid Waste Expected Partners: US Environmental Protection Agency Reduction Method: Landﬁ ll gasses are currently vented into the atmosphere. A signiﬁ cant portion of these gasses have greenhouse eff ects. Gas capture and re-use methods directly reduce greenhouse gas emissions at the landﬁ ll, beneﬁ t the local energy grid, and reduce pollution. In 2019, Richmond Sanitary District reported that 230 tons of material were diverted from the New Paris Pike landﬁ ll through RSD’s recycling program. Richmond’s recycling rate is low compared to the 64,482 tons of solid waste received at the landﬁ ll in 2018. The EPA estimates that a signiﬁ cant amount of the American waste stream is recyclable through diff erent methods9. Richmond continues to add educational pieces for the public to encourage more participation in local recycling programs, including the newly expanded corrugated cardboard recycling program. As the city continues to grow the recycling program, Richmond will consider upgrades to sorting and baling equipment, which will allow the City to increase the types of items that can be collected and make the service more attractive to residents. Many neighboring communities lack recycling programs; as the Richmond program expands, it should consider forming a regional recycling program. Sector Impacted: Municipal Solid Waste Expected Partners: Community Members and Businesses Reduction Method: Diverts materials from the landﬁ ll that generate emissions Strategy 9B: Explore Landfi ll Methane Capture Technologies Strategy 9C: Increase Recycling Rates and Options TIME COST EMISSION IMPACT TIME COST EMISSION IMPACT Richmond diverted 305 tons of recyclable materials from the landﬁ ll in 2021. Did you know? Climate Action Plan 2022 49 The New Paris Pike landﬁ ll received 18,399 tons of construction material in 2018. Methods to divert construction debris by either recycling appropriate materials or ﬁ nding commercial or industrial partners that can utilize construction materials should be evaluated to reduce further total waste added to the landﬁ ll each year. Richmond uses some construction material as road base outside of the Landﬁ ll boundaries, and some of the contaminated material is used within the Landﬁ ll. Sector Impacted: Solid Waste Expected Partners: Local Construction Companies Reduction Method: Diverts materials from the landﬁ ll that generate emissions Strategy 9D: Divert Construction Debris from the Landfi ll TIME COST EMISSION IMPACT CliCliCCClimatmatttmate Ae AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAActictcctctctctctcctctcctctcctctccccctcctccccccccccccttcon PlaPlan 2n2n2n2n22n222n22n2n22nn2n2n2n22n 2n2n2n22nn2n2n 2n2nn2n2nn022022022000220220220220220220220220220220220220022022022022000022022000002202222002200022002200220222202200000222022222222 49494949499999949 Reduction Method:Diverts materials from the landﬁ ll that generate emissions Richmond landﬁ lled more than 77,000 tons of solid waste in 2018. Did you know? 50 Climate Action Plan 202250505050505000500050000000005000000000000500000000000000000000000550005000000000000 Climatmate Ae AActiction on PlaPlan 2n 202202222 As RSD has launched a cardboard recycling program, other special collection days are off ered for toxic substances and electronics to be responsibly disposed of, evaluating local capacity to have drop off locations at the landﬁ ll or collaborating with local partners to increase participation for drop off events may be eff ective. Landﬁ ll diversion is essential from an emissions perspective, but working to keep speciﬁ c types out of the landﬁ ll stream as much as possible has multiple beneﬁ ts. Currently, the specialty wastes collected at the Landﬁ ll are then hauled off -site at a cost to the Landﬁ ll. Sector Impacted: Municipal Solid Waste, Industrial Solid Waste Expected Partners: Environmental Protection Agency Reduction Method: Diverts materials from the landﬁ ll that generate emissions Strategy 9F: Expand Electronics, HFC (Hydrofl uorocarbon), and Other Specialty Material Landfi ll Diversion Projects TIME COST EMISSION IMPACT Solid waste collection and transportation emissions are the second largest within the solid waste sector. Ensuring that methods and routes used to collect waste in Richmond are as effi cient as possible can aid in reducing these emissions. The Sanitary District evaluates Richmond’s routes to ensure the most effi cient pathing. It encourages drivers to adjust containers or pick up loose trash around containers to be collected on their initial pass so that another truck does not have to respond to a citizen complaint later. Education to increase compliance will also reduce trips. The cost of this strategy would increase if a consultant were needed. Sector Impacted: Solid Waste Collection Reduction Method: Increases effi ciency of waste transportation, reducing emissions from vehicle travel Strategy 9E: Evaluate Solid Waste Collection and Transportation Routes TIME COST EMISSION IMPACT Collecting, transporting, and landﬁ lling Richmond’s solid waste resulted in 29,590 metric tons of CO2e in 2018. Did you know? Climate Action Plan 2022 51 Programs at the federal and state level can provide opportunities to increase Richmond’s inventory of multi-modal transportation/infrastructure options. Increasing the amount of these options within the community can encourage citizens to make needed trips without utilizing a car, reducing local VMT and emissions. The City will evaluate and pursue these programs where applicable to help ensure that enough money is available to take on projects to strengthen the City’s transportation networks outside of car-based infrastructure. Sector Impacted: In-Boundary Passenger On-Road Transportation Expected Partners: Federal Legislature, State Legislature Reduction Method: Helps reduce annual VMT, reducing emissions from vehicles Strategy 10A: Advocate for Funding Opportunities for Multi-modal Transportation Options and Infrastructure TIME COST EMISSION IMPACT After energy, transportation is the largest sector of Richmond’s greenhouse gas emissions. Most transportation emissions come from passenger and vehicular freight travel, measured in annual vehicle miles traveled (VMT). The city can aid in reducing the annual VMT through a variety of strategies, mainly focused on infrastructure projects that encourage compact development that reduces the need for vehicular travel from homes to work and amenities. Encouraging community travel habits that reduce vehicular travel and more group travel options can also eff ectively reduce emissions in the transportation sector. Approach 10. Reduce Annual Vehicular Miles Traveled The Rose View Transit provided 124,809 one-way trips in 2021. Did you know? 52 Climate Action Plan 2022 As the Loop and other trails/multi-use paths have been budgeted and built in past years, the City should continue to plan for and construct infrastructure that helps create a walkable, bikeable city. Evaluating practices that can eff ectively expand transit options where they are missing is important in increasing participation in multi-modal transportation options. Sector Impacted: In-Boundary Passenger On-Road Transportation Reduction Method: Helps reduce annual VMT, reducing emissions from vehicles The city should strive to connect with local employers to ﬁ nd best methods to off er transit programs that their employees can utilize. Many workers struggle to ﬁ nd aff ordable and reliable transportation, especially outside of the operating hours of Roseview Transit. Carpooling or bus routes can help employees ﬁ nd rides to and from their shifts at low cost and reduce annual vehicle miles traveled in Richmond. Sector Impacted: In-Boundary Passenger On-Road Transportation Expected Partners: Major Employers Reduction Method: Helps reduce annual VMT, reducing emissions from vehicles Strategy 10B: Evaluate Integrating Multi-modal Transit into Capital Spending plans Strategy 10C: Aid in Providing Employer-assisted Transit Programs TIME COST EMISSION IMPACT TIME COST EMISSION IMPACT Climate Action Plan 2022 53CCCCliCliCCliCliCliCliCCCCCliCliCliCliCliCCCliiCCCCCCliiCliCCCCliCCliCCCliCliCCiCCCiiCliCCiCiCCCCiCCCCCCCCCCCiiCCCCCCCCCCiCCCCCCCCCCCCCCmmmatmatmatmmmmmmatmmmmmatmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmme Ae AeAe Ae Actictictctictitonoonon onn PlaPlaPlPlaPlaPlaPlan 2n2n2nn 2n 2020220220020220222 53535353 The city should create and utilize standardized materials that promote the usage of carpooling or multi-modal transportation methods. Input from citizens and organizations can be valuable in understanding areas that are most in need of more options and barriers to these transportation methods that currently exist. Much of the cost of this strategy would be spent in curriculum development and marketing. Sector Impacted: In-Boundary Passenger On-Road Transportation Expected Partners: Local Non-proﬁ ts, Major Employers Reduction Method: Helps reduce annual VMT, reducing emissions from vehicles As multimodal infrastructure continues to be implemented in Richmond, evaluating programs that encourage residents to utilize these options at low cost may be helpful in wider-scale adoption and use of non-car transportation options. Sector Impacted: In-Boundary Passenger On-Road Transportation Expected Partners: Social Media Bike Groups, Local Businesses, Local Non-proﬁ ts Reduction Method: Helps reduce annual VMT, reducing emissions from vehicles Strategy 10D: Educate Community Organizations and Residents on Value of Multi-modal Transit and Local Opportunities Strategy 10E: Evaluate Bike Sharing Programs TIME COST EMISSION IMPACT TIME COST EMISSION IMPACT 54 Climate Action Plan 202254454 4 544 4 CCCCCCCCCCCCCClCllliliiCClilCCCCCCCCCCCClCilClCCCCCCCCCliCCCliCCCCliCliCCCCmmmmmatatatmmateeee Ae Ae e AAe AAeAAAAAeAeAe AAAAeee AeeAAAAAAAAAee AeAAeee AAAAAAAeAAAAAeAAAAAAAeAAAAAAAAAAAAe AeAeAAAAAAAeeAAAAAAeAAAAAAAAeeeeeeAAAAAe AAAeeAAAAAAAeAAeAAAAeeAAAAAAAeAAAAAAAAAAAAAAeAAAAAAAAAAeeAAAAAAAAAAAAAeAAAAAAeAAAAAAAe AAAAAAAAAAeAAAAAeAAAAAAecticcctictcctictictictictictitictiiicctictictictctittitititiictictitctitctctiicciitctctictictitccctttoooooonononon on ooooooooooon oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo PlaPlaPlalaPlan 2n 2n 2n 2n 2020220202222 Through Richmond’s planning and zoning processes, the city can encourage developers to take on a more compact structure that requires fewer car trips. Multi-use developments that include housing and amenities can create desirable places to live, reducing sprawl from commonly-seen suburban areas. Sector Impacted: In-Boundary Passenger On-Road Transportation Expected Partners: Social Media Bike Groups, Local Businesses, Local Non-proﬁ ts Reduction Method: Helps reduce annual VMT, reducing emissions from vehicles As Richmond strives to create a walkable, bikeable community, ensuring that city development codes aid in this goal is key. As dense, compact developments should be encouraged, so should ensuring that parking requirements are in line with that goal and not in conﬂ ict with the rationale behind these developments. Sector Impacted: In-Boundary Passenger On-Road Transportation Expected Partners: Local Businesses Reduction Method: Helps reduce annual VMT, reducing emissions from vehicles Strategy 10F: Promote Dense and Compact Development Methods and Bike Infrastructure Strategy 10G: Evaluate Reducing Minimum Parking Requirements in the Unifi ed Development Ordinance TIME COST EMISSION IMPACT TIME COST EMISSION IMPACT Climate Action Plan 2022 55 Similar to encouraging projects that utilize renewable energy sources through tax abatements, the City should evaluate and implement a similar program for projects that encourage and prioritize multi-modal transportation methods. Sector Impacted: In-Boundary Passenger On-Road Transportation Reduction Method: Helps reduce annual VMT, reducing emissions from vehicles Another method to encourage compact development may be to prioritize the development of both residential and commercial buildings that house multiple tenants. Multi-use buildings have a beneﬁ cial impact on an area’s walkability, and multi-tenant commercial spaces can reduce the travel time needed to reach multiple destinations. Sector Impacted: In-Boundary Passenger On-Road Transportation Reduction Method: Helps reduce annual VMT, reducing emissions from vehicles Strategy 10H: Utilize City Incentives to Encourage Projects Prioritizing Non-motorized Transit Strategy 10I: Evaluate Methods to Encourage Multi-tenant Commercial Buildings over Single-tenant Buildings TIME COST EMISSION IMPACT TIME COST EMISSION IMPACT 56 Climate Action Plan 2022 Complete streets policies plan for transportation infrastructure that is safe and convenient to travel for people regardless of what method they utilize. The City has begun adopting such a policy, as seen with the planning and construction of the Loop. Ensuring that future transportation projects are easy to travel for all citizens is vital for Richmond’s sustainable growth. An integral part of ensuring the successful implementation of a complete streets program is an updated transportation master plan. It should both plan future transportation networks eff ectively and ensure that Richmond continues growing as a multi-modal transportation-friendly city. Sector Impacted: In-Boundary Passenger On-Road Transportation Reduction Method: Helps reduce annual VMT, reducing emissions from vehicles Decreasing transportation emissions within public transportation is split between increasing transit ridership and increasing the effi ciency of public transit vehicles. Public transit should be carefully considered and prioritized in future transportation planning eff orts. Evaluating the change in transit route options, ﬂ eet vehicles, and other methods to encourage ridership is important. Richmond should incorporate its Rose View system into a generalized transit feed speciﬁ cation system to allow for routes to display as an option on commonly used smartphone map apps. Sector Impacted: In-Boundary Passenger On-Road Transportation Expected Partners: Federal Highway Administration, Indiana Department of Transportation, US Economic Development Administration Reduction Method: Helps reduce annual VMT, reducing emissions from vehicles Strategy 10J: Prioritize a Complete Streets Program and Ensure Integration in an Updated Bike and Pedestrian Master Plan Strategy 10K: Increase Public Transportation Effi ciency TIME COST EMISSION IMPACT TIME COST EMISSION IMPACT Public transportation use saves the United States the equivalent of 4.2 billion gallons of gasoline annually! Did you know? 56 Climate Action Plan 2022 Climate Action Plan 2022 57 As electric vehicles are more widely adopted, the City should ensure that infrastructure is appropriate for the community. Strategic evaluation and proper construction of charging stations will ensure that Richmond is accessible to electric vehicles, both for local ownership and to draw in visitors from Interstate 70. Sector Impacted: In-Boundary Passenger On-Road Transportation Expected Partners: Property and Business Owners, Richmond Power & Light Reduction Method: Helps those who convert to more energy effi cient vehicle options, reducing emissions from the vehicles used within the community. Strategy 11A: Add Electric Vehicle Charging Stations TIME COST EMISSION IMPACT Reducing annual vehicular travel can only be eff ective in reducing transportation emissions to a point without disrupt- ing options for citizens. While the City should encourage multi-modal transportation, another eff ective reduction method is to promote the adoption of more effi cient vehicles. Strategies in this approach focus on ensuring that Richmond’s infrastructure is ready for increased adoption of electric vehicles and advocating for policy changes that encourage the adoption of more effi cient vehicles in general. Approach 11. Increase Effi ciency of Vehicles 58 Climate Action Plan 2022 Richmond should lead by example for the community. Beginning the upgrading of existing city ﬂ eet vehicles is important as more and more vehicles are replaced with more effi cient ones. As time goes on, this strategy will become more attainable as the price of electric vehicles decreases and gas vehicles become increasingly disfavored. Sector Impacted: In-Boundary Passenger On-Road Transportation Reduction Method: Reduces emissions from traditional gas and diesel-powered vehicles by converting them to more effi cient systems. US laws require modern vehicles to abide by emissions standards 10. As vehicle technology improves and hybrid/ electric cars become more widespread, the City should encourage the adoption of policies that keep emissions standards in line with what is reasonable based on current technology. Sector Impacted: All Transportation Expected Partners: Federal Legislature, State Legislature Reduction Method: : Helps those who convert to more energy-effi cient vehicle options, reducing emissions from the vehicles used within the community. Strategy 11B: Convert City Vehicles to Hybrid or Electric Strategy 11C: Advocate for High-Level Vehicle Effi ciency Policy TIME COST EMISSION IMPACT TIME COST EMISSION IMPACT 58 Climate Action Plan 2022 Climate Action Plan 2022 59 Reducing the amount of total water used in Richmond and working towards more effi cient water treatment methods are two ways of reducing emissions related to potable water. Water conservation can be approached through educational programs that encourage residents and businesses to use water more effi ciently, while treatment effi ciency must be handled at the water utility scale. Approach 12. Effi ciently Manage Potable Water The city should develop educational materials and programming and partner with Indiana American Water to ensure residents have access to water conservation methods to reduce annual water usage in Richmond. Sector Impacted: All Transportation Expected Partners: Federal Legislature, State Legislature Reduction Method: : Helps those who convert to more energy-effi cient vehicle options, reducing emissions from the vehicles used within the community. Strategy 12A: Partner with IAWC to Connect Residents with Resources TIME COST EMISSION IMPACT 60 Climate Action Plan 2022 As with many strategies where the City should plan to encourage Richmond’s citizens to reduce energy use, government-owned facilities should lead by example. The City can evaluate methods to install water-effi cient ﬁ xtures in City-owned buildings and take on institutional practices to conserve water. Sector Impacted: Potable Water Treatment Reduction Method: Helps reduce the amount of potable water needing treatment, reducing emissions from energy used in the process. Strategy 12B: Install Water Effi cient Fixtures in City-Owned Facilities Strategy 12C: Evaluate Implementing Programs to Aid Residents in Installing Water Effi cient Fixtures TIME COST EMISSION IMPACT TIME COST EMISSION IMPACT 241 miles of water mains delivered an average of 5,130,000 gallons of drinkable water every day in Richmond in 2021. Did you know? e Implementing ms to Aid Residents in g Waterr EEfffi cient Fixtures ees s ofof wwater mainss delivered aan avvereagee ,0,00000 ggallons of drrinkable wwater evvery cchmhmonod in 2021. ou know ? If the city pursues programs to aid citizens in reducing their water usage, a program to help upgrade more water-effi cient home ﬁ xtures may be eff ective in reducing use. A program like this may also eff ectively address some equity concerns for residents and save money for water utility customers. Sector Impacted: Potable Water Treatment Expected Partners: Indiana American Water Reduction Method: Helps reduce the amount of potable water needing treatment, reducing emissions from energy used in the process. Climate Action Plan 2022 61 As the Indiana American Water Company continues to make upgrades to local utility infrastructure (such as the recent upgrades to the Richmond water treatment plant and signiﬁ cant transmission line installation projects), the City should advocate where applicable to ensure that energy use and generation methods are as sustainable as possible. Similar to other utility recommendations, as the City does not have direct control over this entity, care should be taken to develop an eff ective partnership with the overarching goal of sustainability. Sector Impacted: Potable Water Treatment Expected Partners: Indiana American Water Reduction Method: More effi cient treatment practices use less energy, reducing emissions from energy supplied to water treatment. Strategy 12D: Advocate for Increased Effi ciency of Potable Water Treatment TIME COST EMISSION IMPACT ClClCClClClCliCliCliCliCliCliCliCliCliCliCliCliiCliCliCllCliCliCliCliClCliCClCliCCllmatmatmatmatatttatatmamamamammtmmmmmeAeAe Ae AeAAAe Ae AeAAe AAeectictictictictiicticttitiononononnonon n onnnnonn PlPlPlPlaPlaPlaPlaPlalaaaaaaaPlaaPlaaaaaaaaaaaPPPnnnn nn 222222nnn2nn2222n02200020220222222 61 gy, g gy pp to water treatment. 62 Climate Action Plan 2022 Richmond Sanitary District is responsible for sewer management and wastewater treatment within Richmond. Recent upgrades to the wastewater treatment plant and combined sewer separation have shown a sustainability-oriented approach to liquid waste management. The City should continue to pursue projects that eff ectively use effi cient methods to treat and handle wastewater within Richmond due to the signiﬁ cant energy needed to manage daily local wastewater loads. Approach 13. Effi ciently Manage Liquid Waste Richmond’s wastewater treatment plant uses substantial energy to operate (9,290,400 kWh and 57,733.36 MMBtu in 2018). Continuing to explore technology/methods to reduce the amount of energy needed at the plant can help reduce emissions and explore on-site renewable energy generation methods. However, the amount of power used at the WWTP would require a signiﬁ cant area for solar panels. The upgrade project in 2021 reduced energy use with new aeration technology by an expected 2,000,000 kWh per year. Sector Impacted: Wastewater Treatment Reduction Method: Reduce energy used in wastewater treatment process Strategy 13A: Increase Wastewater Treatment Process Effi ciency TIME COST EMISSION IMPACT Climate Action Plan 2022 63 As the Richmond wastewater treatment plant utilizes digestion to break down organic matter, the process creates bio gas, which contains a signiﬁ cant amount of methane. Currently, Richmond uses most gas produced to heat the anaerobic digesters. This gas can otherwise be captured and utilized for on or off -site energy purposes. Richmond uses the digestate from the treatment plant to fertilize local farm ﬁ elds and may expand on that partnership if there is room to do so. With smaller and smaller windows available for land application, altering the current program is a focus; looking to expand the storage of the liquid bio-solids or going to a drier bio-solid to reduce volume are the likely paths forward. As the application problem is solved, manners of expanding bio gas production can be addressed with methods such as increasing the inﬂ uent waste stream with sources such as grease, and mechanical corrections such as complete mix systems. Increased or diverted waste streams such as the grease mentioned would also reduce energy use described in 13. Sector Impacted: Wastewater Treatment Reduction Method: Generate alternative energy sources Strategy 13B: Explore Advanced Anaerobic Digestion Infl ows TIME COST EMISSION IMPACT Climate Action Plan 2022 63 64 Climate Action Plan 2022 The Commission sought the opinions of many departments, sustainability professionals, and those in economic development, emergency management, and more before introducing this plan to the community. This climate action plan is a living document meant to shift with Richmond as opportunities and priorities change. The City is eager to receive continued feedback and invites those with comments or a desire to participate by contacting Richmond’s Environmental Sustainability Commission. The Commission is eager to drive this plan forward. The speed at which the City can implement these strategies will depend on available staff , departmental initiative, and collaborative potential within community organizations. Indeed, this document was only made possible because of the support from external programming, interns, and other resources that do not currently exist within the city. Many cities navigate climate action plans by employing a Sustainability Coordinator. Securing the capabilities of a full-time city staff member devoted to executing these strategies is the most crucial step to seeing them come to fruition. There is a positive correlation between the technical and administrative capacities that such a position can bring to Richmond, and their ability to secure funds for effi ciency upgrades. A Sustainability Coordinator could spend signiﬁ cant time researching and applying for grant opportunities to ﬁ nance sustainability projects, often saving additional money. City administration should determine the best path toward establishing a Sustainability Coordinator position. This Climate Action Plan represents a compassionate investment in the health and wellbeing of all present and future residents of the City of Richmond. With community involvement and the prioritization of the strategies in this plan, a more equitable, safe, sustainable, and ﬁ nancially responsible future is within reach. The changing climate presents issues that will take work, but Richmond will rise to the challenge. Conclusion Over 80% believe that the government should take the lead on climate change preparations. Survey Fact! Climate Action Plan 2022 65 1. Widhalm, M., Hamlet, A. Byun, K., Robeson, S., Baldwin, M., Staten, P., Chiu, C., Coleman, J., Hall, B., Hoogewind, K., Huber, M., Kieu, C., Yoo, J., Dukes, J.S. 2018. Indiana’s Past & Future Climate: A Report from the Indiana Climate Change Impacts Assessment. Purdue Climate Change Research Center, Purdue University. West Lafayette, Indiana. DOI:10.5703/ 1288284316634 https://docs.lib.purdue.edu/cgi/ viewcontent.cgi?article=1000&context=climatetr 2. Ibid. 3. Offi ce, U.S. Government Accountability. “Electricity Grid Resilience: Climate Change Is Expected to Have Far-Reaching Eff ects and Doe and FERC Should Take Actions.” Electricity Grid Resilience: Climate Change Is Expected to Have Far-reaching Eff ects and DOE and FERC Should Take Actions | U.S. GAO, March 10, 2021. https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-21-423t. 4. USGCRP, 2018: Impacts, Risks, and Adaptation in the United States: Fourth National Climate Assessment, Volume II [Reidmiller, D.R., C.W. Avery, D.R. Easterling, K.E. Kunkel, K.L.M. Lewis, T.K. Maycock, and B.C. Stewart (eds.)]. U.S. Global Change Research Program, Washington, DC, USA, 1515 pp. doi: 10.7930/ NCA4.2018.https://nca2018.globalchange.gov/ chapter/13/ 5. U.S. Energy Information Administration. “U.S. Energy Information Administration - EIA - Independent Statistics and Analysis.” Indiana - Rankings - U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). Accessed April 1, 2022. https://www.eia.gov/state/rankings/?sid=IN#/ series/226. 6. World Population Review. “Richmond, Indiana Population 2022.” Richmond, Indiana Population 2022 (Demographics, Maps, Graphs). Accessed April 1, 2022. https://worldpopulationreview.com/us-cities/ richmond-in-population. 7. U.S. Energy Information Administration. “Frequently Asked Questions (Faqs) - U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA).” Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), November 4, 2021. https://www.eia.gov/tools/faqs/faq. php?id=105&t=3#:~:text=The%20U.S.%20Energy%20 Information%20Administration,States%20in%20 2016%20through%202020. 8. Ghosh, Pooja, Goldy Shah, Shivali Sahota, Lakhveer Singh, and Virendra Kumar Vijay. “Bio gas Production from Waste: Technical Overview, Progress, and Challenges.” Bioreactors, 2020, 89–104. https://doi. org/10.1016/b978-0-12-821264-6.00007-3. 9. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. “National Overview: Facts and Figures on Materials, Wastes and Recycling.” EPA. Environmental Protection Agency. Accessed April 1, 2022. https://www.epa.gov/facts- and-ﬁ gures-about-materials-waste-and-recycling/ national-overview-facts-and-ﬁ gures-materials#:~: text=Of%20the%20MSW%20generated%2C%20approx- imately,percent%20recycling%20and%20compost- ing%20rate. 10. U.S. Department of Transportation. “Corporate Average Fuel Economy.” NHTSA. Accessed April 1, 2022. https://www.nhtsa.gov/laws-regulations/corporate- average-fuel-economy#:~:text=NHTSA%27s%20 Corporate%20Average%20Fuel%20Econo- my,heavy%2Dduty%20trucks%20and%20engines. Endnotes ngng, mm, ent ergy 22 222.. ntlyl A), faqq. 0 my,heavy%2Ddduty%20trucks%20aand%20engngines. 66 Climate Action Plan 2022 ''%!) 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=D=;LJA;:ADDK AF;J=9K=<L=EH=J9LMJ=K =PLJ=E=O=9L@=J=N=FLK =L; 084*06-&8'3'&6%')3''/*064')#4'.+44+0/4 1@=J=9J=9FME:=JG>O9QKLGJ=<M;=?J==F@GMK=?9K=EAKKAGFK1@AK DAE9L=;LAGF -D9FGMLDAF=KE9FQG>L@GK=HGKKA:ADALA=K4@=FJ=KHGF<AF?LGHGKKA:D=9J=9KG>>G;MK J=KHGF<=FLKJ9FC=<WAF;J=9KAF?J=F=O9:D==F=J?Q9F<J=;Q;DAF?X9K9;D=9JHJAGJALQ 70 Climate Action Plan 2022 Next Steps for Climate Resilience in Richmond, IN Prepared by the Environmental Resilience Institute using the results of Richmond’s Hoosier Resilience Index Readiness Assessment May 2021 In November 2020, the City of Richmond completed the Hoosier Resilience Index Readiness Assessment to understand and evaluate its preparedness for the impacts of climate change. This report contains a review of the Assessment results, suggestions for prioritizing next steps, relevant funding opportunities, and case studies from Midwestern local governments. Results Figure 1. Hoosier Resilience Index Readiness Assessment Results, Richmond, IN, May 2021 The scores in Figure 1, ranging from 0 to 10, indicate how prepared Richmond is for the three primary risks from climate change in Indiana: an increasing number of extreme heat events, an increasing number of extreme precipitation events, and an increasing risk of flooding along rivers and streams. Street flooding, also known as surface or nuisance flooding, is also a major impact of climate change in Indiana. This impact is addressed within the extreme precipitation questions and score in the Assessment. Table 1 shows Richmond’s scores in comparison to Hoosier governments that have also completed the Assessment. Table 1. A Comparison of Richmond's Assessment Scores, May 2021 Score Categories Richmond Average, All Indiana Communities, n =15 Average, Similar-Sized* Indiana Governments, n = 8 Extreme Heat 4.28 4.62 4.97 Extreme Precipitation 4.69 5.15 5.45 Floodplain Management 4.67 4.95 5.35 * Incorporated areas in Indiana designated as cities Appendix III: Next Steps for Climate Resilience in Richmond, IN Climate Action Plan 2022 71 Next Steps for Climate Resilience in Richmond, IN 2 Results by Readiness Assessment Worksheet The Readiness Assessment is divided into eight worksheets, each geared toward the focus area of a typical local government department. Table 2 shows how Richmond scored in each worksheet in all three risk categories. Actions undertaken in the Food and Agriculture category indicate a higher level of preparedness than other categories, especially for extreme precipitation and flooding. Lower scores in Public Health and Safety and Economic Development drive Richmond’s overall scores lower. This chart can be used to identify departments that may need to make climate change preparedness a higher priority. Table 2. Richmond's Assessment Scores by Worksheet, as of May 2021 Extreme Heat Score Extreme Precipitation Score Floodplain Land Use Score Built Environment 5.00 4.20 4.00 Economic Development 3.20 3.20 3.20 Emergency Management 4.75 5.20 5.20 Energy and Public Utilities 5.50 5.50 5.50 Food and Agriculture 5.00 6.00 6.00 Natural Resources 4.75 5.27 5.27 Planning and Land Use 3.82 4.40 4.17 Public Health and Safety 2.60 2.00 2.00 Overall 4.28 4.69 4.67 Results by Readiness Assessment Impact The Assessment is also divided into twenty-two separate specific climate change impacts relevant in Indiana. Viewing the results in terms of preparedness for each impact can illuminate prioritization areas. Table 3 shows each score by impact. 72 Climate Action Plan 2022 Next Steps for Climate Resilience in Richmond, IN 3 Table 3. Richmond's Assessment Scores by Impact, May 2021 Impacts* Extreme Heat Score Extreme Precipitation Score Floodplain Land Use Score Built Environment 1. Stress on transportation systems 5.00 4.00 4.00 2. River and surface flooding in developed areas N/A** 5.33 4.00 3. Stormwater management infrastructure N/A** 4.00 6.00 Economic Development 4. Local economy and low-income residents 3.20 3.20 3.20 Emergency Management 5. Communication systems 6.00 6.00 6.00 6. Strain on government services 4.00 5.20 5.20 7. Impacts on residents 4.67 4.67 4.67 Energy and Public Utilities 8. Power Supply Issues 4.00 4.00 4.00 9. Drinking water 7.00 7.33 7.33 10. Wastewater treatment N/A** 6.00 6.00 Food and Agriculture 11. Food shortages 5.00 6.00 6.00 Natural Resources 12. Inland wetlands and waterways 6.00 6.50 6.50 13. Threats to sensitive species in natural areas 3.50 3.50 3.50 14. Rural and urban forests 6.00 6.00 6.00 Planning and Land Use 15. Floodplain inundations and surface flooding 10.00 9.00 6.00 16. Warm temperatures in developed areas 2.00 2.00 2.00 17. Habitat for sensitive species in developed areas 4.00 4.00 4.00 18. Anticipated and unanticipated impacts 4.00 4.00 4.00 Public Health and Safety 19. Illnesses from outdoor air pollution 3.33 N/A** N/A** 20. Illnesses from indoor air pollution 2.00 2.00 2.00 21. Heat related illnesses 3.33 N/A** N/A** 22. Illnesses from disease carrying vectors 2.00 2.00 2.00 * The impact text has been shortened for this table. For the full impact text, see Appendix A. ** N/A: The local government had no relevant questions or responses for the corresponding impact in the Assessment. Climate Action Plan 2022 73 Next Steps for Climate Resilience in Richmond, IN 4 Progress Below are the three impacts for which Richmond is most prepared, according to the answers you provided. Impact 9 – Increased likelihood of impacts on drinking water sources and distribution infrastructure x Richmond or the local water utility has enough back-up pumps and power generation devices to ensure that water delivery will be maintained equitably throughout the community if a flood or other major disaster strikes. x Richmond’s water treatment system is sufficient to handle projected water quality impacts. Staff conduct a regular audit to determine if its system is adequate for updated anticipated climate impacts. x Richmond or the local water utility has begun to identify possible drought-protection strategies and alternate sources for water, such as a lake, aquifer, river, or rainwater harvesting and storage facility. o Next Steps: Develop a drought protection and response plan to maintain the community’s access to drinking water. The plan should include strategies to increase the community’s water storage capacity and diversify options for water supply. Impact 12 – Increased likelihood of impacts on the health and beneficial functionality of inland wetlands and waterways x Richmond has identified and mapped its wetlands and seasonal ponds and is making a plan to maintain, restore, and protect them. o Next Steps: Implement strategies to maintain, restore, and protect wetlands and seasonal ponds. Consider locations for new wetland installations. x Richmond, or a community partner, has identified the stream segments within its jurisdiction that are listed on the 303(d) list, and has started researching ways to contribute to their improved ecological management. o Next Steps: Lead or participate in a near-term plan with a schedule and milestones to improve the ecological management of Richmond stream segments on the 303(d) list. x Richmond or a partner organization actively offers community education to farmers and landowners on the correct application of fertilizers and pesticides. The education includes information on preventing polluted runoff by maintaining rainwater on properties via landscaping with native plants and other water-retention mechanisms. 74 Climate Action Plan 2022 Next Steps for Climate Resilience in Richmond, IN 5 The program works in partnership with local lawn-care companies and community groups to distribute information and includes specific outreach to farmer networks. Impact 15 – More frequent floodplain inundations and surface flooding x Richmond has adopted a policy or passed an ordinance requiring staff to use green infrastructure, open space minimums, or other on-site stormwater retention practices in renovations and new construction on public land. Richmond is in the process of developing a community-scale green infrastructure plan or integrating green infrastructure into its comprehensive plan. Richmond is looking into ways it can increase green infrastructure on private lands. o Next Steps: Complete the City’s community-scale green infrastructure plan or finish integrating green infrastructure into the comprehensive plan. Adopt at least one mechanism (planning-based, regulatory, or incentive-based) for increasing on-site stormwater retention on private property. x Richmond has passed an ordinance requiring staff to use pervious cover or vegetation in renovations and new construction on public land. It either offers a pervious cover incentive or has adopted an ordinance or zoning code requiring a pervious cover minimum or impervious cover maximum on private land. Prioritizing Actions Listed below are the actions for which Richmond scored the lowest when considering the financial and social burdens of climate change, and among the three primary risks from climate change in Indiana. These actions should be considered for prioritization without eliminating support for the projects already underway. Social and Financial Burden People of color, low-income populations, individuals with pre-existing conditions, and other vulnerable populations are hit first and hardest by the impacts of climate change. In addition, ERI understands that preparing for and responding to climate change is expensive. But a study released in 2018 by the National Institute of Building Sciencesi shows that a dollar invested in hazard mitigation yields six dollars in benefits over time. Start planning today by integrating funding strategies into your local government’s financial planning. The following bullets demonstrate how Richmond can take steps now to prepare their communities for the social and economic burden of climate change – whether costs are borne by residents or the government. Consider these recommended actions, for which Richmond marked level 2 or lower: x 4A: Evaluate how climate change impacts could affect the local economy - The Indiana Climate Change Impacts Assessment offers several easy-to-read reports that outline Climate Action Plan 2022 75 Next Steps for Climate Resilience in Richmond, IN 6 how climate change is impacting Indiana now, and how it is expected to impact the state in the future. Businesses can anticipate increased costs from extreme weather event recovery, supply chain disruptions, insurance rates, and more. Furthermore, conducting a climate change economic impact analysis can help a community understand how the changing climate will affect local economic activity. x 4B: Incorporate climate and disaster resilience into economic development strategic plans - While most impacts are negative and will increase upfront or long-term costs dramatically if no preparation activities take place, there are a few impacts that may offer positive benefits, such as opportunities for increased tourism and recreation in certain parts of the state. Local governments should consider both the positive and negative impacts of climate change when outlining economic development strategies and plans. x 4C: Consider and plan for implications of climate change on the local job market - Job losses and opportunities are among the ways in which climate change will impact the local economy. Through workforce development programs, community colleges, local chambers of commerce, and other organizations, local government can facilitate connections to ensure that residents can seek out and find opportunities when transitions are needed. x 4D: Establish a protocol for providing assistance to residents that may face finance strain caused by climate hazards - Vulnerable residents often do not have the resources necessary to respond to or recover from climate hazards. To prevent vulnerable residents from being disproportionately affected by climate hazards, local governments can dedicate thoughtful planning, funding, and assistance while recognizing that some populations will be especially vulnerable and understanding what their needs might be. x 4E: Develop a plan for accepting people displaced by climate change impacts - As sea levels rise and hurricanes, droughts, and other extreme weather events increase in severity, cities and towns in Indiana can expect new residents, some temporary and some permanent, from areas that have been hit hard by climate change. The local government can create a plan of action that can be used when an influx of new residents is expected. x 7C: Enhance community networks and connections for vulnerable communities - As the likelihood of extreme heat events increases, individuals with special circumstances, such as language and cultural barriers, health issues, and strained incomes, may face difficulties that make preparing for and responding to heat more challenging. x 8D: Establish a protocol for providing assistance to residents who may face financial strain caused by higher energy costs - Low-income residents might not have access to air conditioning or be able to afford to run it if they do have it as the number and severity 76 Climate Action Plan 2022 Next Steps for Climate Resilience in Richmond, IN 7 of high heat events increases. These residents might also struggle to keep up with energy costs during recurrent cold snaps. Local governments can implement measures to reduce these impacts and consider the need for funding assistance. x 18C: Integrate funding for readiness actions into the local government’s financial planning - Preparing for the impacts of climate change is expensive but responding to events made worse by climate change will likely be pricier. As local governments take steps to avoid or lessen impacts when they hit, they need to consider how they will pay for their resilience initiatives. Financing can draw from public and private sources, including state and federal grant funding, working through public-private partnerships, private foundations, and local taxes and fees, among other options. Preparing for Extreme Heat Given that the number of high heat events in Richmond are expected to jump from the current number of 18 high heat days and nights to between 60 and 74 by the 2050sii, consider these recommended actions, for which Richmond marked level 2 or lower: x 1A: Prepare roadways and bridges for higher maximum temperatures and more freeze- thaw events - Designing roadways and bridges for higher maximum temperatures includes tactics such as using heat-tolerant street landscaping and ensuring asphalt/concrete mixtures and other construction materials are appropriate for temperatures changes. x 6B: Identify and protect critical infrastructure from higher temperatures - Extreme heat can prevent electric plants from being able to cool down because source water will be too warm to cool the plant. If plants have to cut back on power generation, and power demand increases, blackouts and brownouts can occur. Heat waves can also cause roadways and pavement to buckle, and other infrastructure failures. x 6C: Involve critical facility and emergency infrastructure managers in climate change preparedness and management - Involving the on-site managers of critical facilities and community infrastructure can ensure that these individuals understand the increasing threats posted by extreme heat, and how to prepare and respond. x 6G: Design and launch a community volunteer response program - During extreme heat events, emergency services can become overly strained, creating a need for volunteer response teams. x 7A: Educate residents about steps they can take to improve personal emergency preparedness - As extreme heat events become more frequent and severe, local governments can benefit from taking steps in advance to increase individual household preparedness. Climate Action Plan 2022 77 Next Steps for Climate Resilience in Richmond, IN 8 x 16A: Pass a tree canopy ordinance – The presence of an extensive tree canopy is associated with measurable decreases in air temperature, compared to areas without dense tree cover. x 16B: Designate vegetation protection areas – Adopt vegetation protection areas or zones to designate sections of land to be restored or kept for plants. The presence of plants is associated with measurable decreases in ambient air temperature. x 16C: Promote energy efficiency and waste heat reduction – As buildings and vehicles operate, they release waste heat, which contributes to nearby temperatures. x 19A: Educate residents about the health impacts of poor air quality and provide an effective advance warning program for elevated pollution days - As temperatures continue to rise, Indiana will likely experience more days with unhealthy levels of air pollution. Educating residents about the health risks of poor air quality and having an effective air pollution warning system in place can reduce the adverse health impacts of air pollution. x 19B: Develop and implement a plan for high air pollution days that calls for both public and private action - It is important to advise residents of things they can do on high air pollution days to limit local emissions and to encourage residents to take action to protect their health and the health of the community. It is also important for local government to have policies in place to curtail their own high-emitting activities on “bad air” days. x 19C: Develop local air pollution reduction programs - The best way to reduce the risk of illness from poor air quality is to prevent poor air quality in the first place. While much air pollution is regional, local sources of dust, soot, and smog-forming pollutants do contribute to local air quality, some quite significantly. Reducing those local emissions will improve local air quality. x 21A: Educate about heat related illness and prevention - Communicating to the public can help people understand the risk factors and symptoms of heat-related illnesses to reduce their exposure and know how to act when a situation occurs. x 21B: Conduct a heat vulnerability assessment and develop a heat management plan - A heat vulnerability assessment uses available data to quantify and map the heat risk throughout a community. A heat response plan includes strategies and procedures to respond to extreme health related emergencies. 78 Climate Action Plan 2022 Next Steps for Climate Resilience in Richmond, IN 9 x 21C: Implement programs or activities that reduce heat impacts in the built environment - Buildings, paved areas, and other impervious surfaces absorb heat from the sun and release it throughout the day and into the evening. This makes it difficult for residents to avoid the heat during extreme heat events and can even increase ambient air temperatures. Preparing for Extreme Precipitation Given that spring and winter precipitation is expected to increase between 13% and 20% across the state of Indiana, with more of this precipitation falling as rainiii, and that 42% of the amount of rain Indiana receives is already falling in heavier downpoursiv, consider these recommended actions, for which Richmond marked level 2 or lower: x 3A: Understand and address green stormwater collection and treatment system weaknesses, ensuring capacities are appropriate for heavier precipitation events - Communities have two types of stormwater infrastructure – gray and green. Traditional "gray" systems move stormwater using curbs, gutters, drains, piping, and collection systems. “Green” stormwater infrastructure (vegetation designed and planted to manage stormwater on-site) includes natural buffers, bio-retention areas (rain gardens), green roofs, swales (depressions to capture water) and the general use of vegetation instead of impervious surfaces. Communities can benefit from evaluating both types of stormwater infrastructure for existing weaknesses and preparedness for climate change. x 3C: Develop adaptive stormwater management best practices and integrate them into a plan to reduce stormwater runoff from impervious surfaces - Adaptive stormwater management practices such as green infrastructure and low impact development methods can help reduce runoff and stormwater flows that may otherwise exceed system capacity. x 3D: Increase street sweeping and stormwater drain maintenance - One of the easiest ways to prevent or reduce surface flooding is to make sure stormwater drains are not blocked. Regular street sweeping and drain maintenance schedules are one method of achieving this goal. x 6C: Involve critical facility and emergency infrastructure managers in climate change preparedness and management - Involving the on-site managers of critical facilities and community infrastructure can ensure that these individuals understand the increasing threats posted by extreme precipitation, and how to prepare and respond. x 6G: Design and launch a community volunteer response program - During extreme precipitation events, emergency services can become overly strained, creating a need for volunteer response teams. Climate Action Plan 2022 79 Next Steps for Climate Resilience in Richmond, IN 10 x 7A: Educate residents about steps they can take to improve personal emergency preparedness - As extreme precipitation events become more frequent and severe, local governments can benefit from taking steps in advance to increase individual household preparedness. x 8A: Work internally and with the local utility to increase power supply preparedness - There are a number of initiatives that local governments with municipally owned utilities can implement to decrease the risk of power outages during and after storms. Even if a local government does not operate the community’s power grid, local officials can run internal and community-wide programs to support energy efficiency, and they can meet with electricity and natural gas providers to express their interest and concern in decreasing power supply issues due to the threats of climate change. x 8B: Encourage alternative energy generation, energy storage systems, and distributed energy - Alternative energy and energy storage systems, combined with decentralized microgrids, offer resilience to extreme weather events, whereas traditional power generation systems can lead to widespread blackouts. x 8C: Install back-up power options for critical facilities and systems - Most critical facilities and systems rely on energy to operate. During and after extreme weather, power grids are likely to fail, rendering critical infrastructure unusable. Back-up power sources include battery-stored back-up power, solar power, and small- or large-scale wind electric systems. x 16B: Designate vegetation protection areas – Adopt vegetation protection areas or zones to designate sections of land to be restored or kept for plants. The presence of plants is associated with measurable decreases in ambient air temperature. Preparing for River Flooding Given that 605 acres (94%) of Richmond’s floodplain is developedv, consider these recommended actions, for which Richmond marked level 2 or lower: x 1B: Prepare bridge openings, culverts, and ditches for flooding – Bridge openings, culverts, and ditches can be comprehensively assessed and prepared for heavier rain events and flooding, retrofitting if needed. Bridges should be inspected biennially, and a plan should be in place to deal with bridge scour. x 2C: Develop and adopt policies and procedures for post-flood repairs - Post-flood policies can minimize service disruption due to damaged infrastructure. These contingency plans should be incorporated into other planning efforts, updated regularly to remain consistent with any changes in utility services or assets, and provide response and repair services equitably across the community – meaning that the needs of the most vulnerable residents and neighborhoods should be considered. 80 Climate Action Plan 2022 Next Steps for Climate Resilience in Richmond, IN 11 x 6F: Develop a debris management plan to direct post-flood response - More powerful storms may generate large amounts of debris that will need to be appropriately managed. Much of this debris can be reused or recycled (e.g., limbs and branches can be chipped and composted; construction debris can be reused). Having a plan ready for these situations will enable quick and sustainable cleanup to get operations back to normal. x 15A: Complete the USEPA’s Flood Resilience Checklist - The USEPA has developed the “Flood Resilience Checklist” to help local governments understand their preparedness for flood events. The checklist includes overall strategies to improve flood resilience as well as specific strategies to conserve land and discourage development in river corridors; to protect people, businesses, and facilities in vulnerable settlements; to direct development to safer areas; and to implement and coordinate stormwater management practices throughout the whole watershed. x 15B: Participate in the National Flood Insurance Program Community Rating System - The National Flood Insurance Program’s (NFIP) Community Rating System (CRS) is a voluntary incentive program offered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) that recognizes and encourages community floodplain management activities that exceed the minimum requirements. Conclusion This report includes many actions Richmond should consider when outlining strategies to prepare for climate change. While this may seem overwhelming, taking action is vital. Delaying preparedness will make it harder and more expensive to recover from the impacts of climate change later on. See Appendix B for a list of funding opportunities and case studies demonstrating how your peers are adapting to climate change. In addition to taking specific steps to increase your community’s preparedness for climate change, consider tracking and reducing greenhouse gas emissions released by local government operations and across the jurisdiction. Through worldwide efforts to reduce these climate- change-causing emissions, everyone, in every country, will experience less intense climate change impacts. As you continue down the path toward climate resilience, ensure that the most vulnerable residents in your community are protected and prepared. These individuals are often hit first and hardest. Lastly, remember that you do not need to do this work all on your own. Everyone, including residents and businesses, has a role to play in addressing climate change. Contact the Environmental Resilience Institute for guidance on these efforts. Climate Action Plan 2022 81 Next Steps for Climate Resilience in Richmond, IN 12 About the Environmental Resilience Institute Indiana University’s Environmental Resilience Institute brings together a broad, bipartisan coalition of government, business, nonprofit and community leaders to help Indiana better prepare for the challenges that environmental changes bring to our economy, health, and livelihood. In collaboration with partners across the state, the institute is working to deliver tailored and actionable solutions to Indiana communities. 82 Climate Action Plan 2022 Appendix A – Readiness Assessment Impacts Worksheet Impact Built Environment Impact 1: Increased stress on roadways, bridges, and transportation systems Impact 2: Increased likelihood of river and surface flooding in developed areas Impact 3: Increased likelihood of impacts on stormwater management infrastructure Economic Development Impact 4: Increased likelihood of climate change impacting the local economy and low-income residents Emergency Management Impact 5: Increased stress on existing communication systems during extreme weather Impact 6: Increased strain on government services, critical facilities, resources, and emergency infrastructure Impact 7: Increased impacts on residents during and after flood and heat events Energy and Public Utilities Impact 8: Increased likelihood of power supply issues Impact 9: Increased likelihood of impacts on drinking water sources and distribution infrastructure Impact 10: Increased stress on wastewater treatment systems Food and Agriculture Impact 11: Increased likelihood of short-term and long-term food shortages of the local and global food supply Natural Resources Impact 12: Increased likelihood of impacts on the health and beneficial functionality of inland wetlands and waterways Impact 13: Threatened habitat, breeding, and survival of sensitive species Impact 14: Affected health and beneficial functionality of rural and urban forests, and other natural green spaces Planning and Land Use Impact 15: More frequent floodplain inundations and surface flooding Impact 16: Increased warm season temperatures in developed areas Impact 17: Threatened habitat for sensitive species Impact 18: Increased likelihood of anticipated and unanticipated impacts of climate change Public Health and Safety Impact 19: Increased likelihood of illnesses from increased outdoor air pollution Impact 20: Increased likelihood of illnesses from increased indoor air pollution Impact 21: Increased likelihood of heat related illnesses Impact 22: Increased likelihood of illnesses from disease carrying vectors (such as mosquitoes and ticks) Climate Action Plan 2022 83 Appendix B. Resources to Help You Get Started The Hoosier Resilience Index Readiness Assessment is designed to be the beginning of a long-term process for building resilience in your community. Below are a funding and case study resources from the Environmental Resilience Institute Toolkit (ERIT) to help you continue down this path. Additional resources, including online trainings, tools, a list of adaptation strategies, and more is available at https://eri.iu.edu/erit/. Funding Sources and Technical Assistance Resources The chart below provides funding opportunities that may help Richmond start some of the actions listed under “Prioritizing Actions,” above. More information about these opportunities, all with additional grant opportunities, is available at https://eri.iu.edu/erit/funding/index.html. Preparedness Actions Funding Opportunities Preparing for Social and Financial Burdens 4A: Evaluate how climate change impacts could affect the local economy Partners for Places -Partners for Places is a matching grant program for cities and counties that assist in projects for the environment, economy, and communities with a 1:1 match required. 4B: Incorporate climate and disaster resilience into economic development strategic plan Community Crossings Matching Grant - Community Crossings is a partnership between INDOT and Hoosier communities to invest in infrastructure projects that catalyze economic development, create jobs, and strengthen local transportation networks. FEMA Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC)- This grant will support states, local communities, tribes, and territories as they undertake hazard mitigation projects to reduce the risks they face from disasters and natural hazards. FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Program - 84 Climate Action Plan 2022 15 Local and state governments, territories, and federally-recognized tribes can apply to this program to enact mitigation measures that reduce the risk of loss of life and property from future disasters. FEMA Pre-Disaster Mitigation Grant Program - Local and state governments, territories, and federally-recognized tribes can apply to this program for planning and project grants that seek to reduce future losses before disaster strikes. 4C: Consider and plan for implications of climate change on the local job market Community Crossings Matching Grant - Community Crossings is a partnership between INDOT and Hoosier communities to invest in infrastructure projects that catalyze economic development, create jobs, and strengthen local transportation networks. Framework for Creating a Smart Growth Economic Development Strategy - This step-by-step guide can help build a place-based economic development strategy that is intended for small and mid-sized cities. 4D: Establish a protocol for providing assistance to residents that may face finance strain caused by climate hazards (None located to date) 4E: Develop a plan for accepting people displaced by climate change impacts (None located to date) 7C: Enhance community networks and connections for vulnerable communities (None located to date) 8D: Establish a protocol for providing assistance to residents who may face financial strain caused by higher energy costs (None located to date) 18C: Integrate funding r readiness actions into the local government’s financial planning Indiana Emergency Management Performance Grants (EMPG) - Climate Action Plan 2022 85 16 These grants are available to local, state, territorial, and tribal governments and can be used for preparation for all hazards. FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Program - Local and state governments, territories, and federally-recognized tribes can apply to this program to enact mitigation measures that reduce the risk of loss of life and property from future disasters. Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities - This grant will support states, local communities, tribes, and territories as they undertake hazard mitigation projects to reduce the risks they face from disasters and natural hazards. FEMA Pre-Disaster Mitigation Grant Program - Local and state governments, territories, and federally-recognized tribes can apply to this program for planning and project grants that seek to reduce future losses before disaster strikes. Preparing for Extreme Heat Events General Extreme Heat Funding Resources Georgetown Climate Center Federal Funding Compendium for Urban Heat Adaptation - Although it was published in 2013, this resource aggregates and analyzes some current federal programs with potential to pay for state and local government adaptation to urban heat islands. (applies to many of the actions below) 1A: Prepare roadways and bridges for higher maximum temperatures and more freeze-thaw events Community Crossings Matching Grant - Provides funding to cities, towns, and counties across Indiana to make improvements to local roads and bridges. Eligible projects could include road resurfacing and preservation, bridge rehabilitation or replacement, and more. 6B: Identify and protect critical infrastructure from higher temperatures Georgetown Climate Center Federal Funding Compendium for Urban Heat Adaptation - Although it was published in 2013, this resource aggregates and analyzes some current federal programs with potential to pay for state and local government adaptation to urban heat islands, including with infrastructure. FEMA Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) - 86 Climate Action Plan 2022 17 This grant supports states, local communities, tribes, and territories as they undertake hazard mitigation projects to reduce the risks they face from disasters and natural hazards. 6C: Involve critical facility and emergency infrastructure managers in climate change preparedness and management (None located to date) 6G: Design and launch a community volunteer response program Hazardous Materials Emergency Preparedness (HMEP) Grant Program - HMEP grants are awarded to Local Emergency Planning Committees and can be used to determine the need within a state for regional hazardous materials emergency response teams. 7A: Educate residents about steps they can take to improve personal emergency preparedness Indiana Emergency Management Performance Grants (EMPG) - These grants are available to local, state, territorial, and tribal governments and can be used for preparation for all hazards. 16A: Pass a tree canopy ordinance Model Forest Policy Program Implementation Assistance - This program is available to communities who have already assessed climate risks and identified resilience goals. MFPP assists communities with implementing adaptation goals, including drafting and passing a tree ordinance. National Park Service Land and Water Conservation Fund - This program provides matching grants to states and local governments for the acquisition and development of public outdoor recreation areas and facilities. Georgetown Climate Center Federal Funding Compendium for Urban Heat Adaptation - Although it was published in 2013, this resource aggregates and analyzes some current federal programs with potential to pay for state and local government adaptation to urban heat islands. 16B: Designate vegetation protection areas DOT Transportation Alternatives Program - The Transportation Alternatives program provides funding to local and state governments to pursue community improvements such as vegetation management. USDA Agricultural Management Assistance Program - Climate Action Plan 2022 87 18 This opportunity is appropriate after land has been designated for protection. This program is available to agricultural land (government parcels or not) and nonindustrial private forest land. Technical and financial assistance is provided to plant trees for windbreaks or diversify operation and conservation practices. Georgetown Climate Center Federal Funding Compendium for Urban Heat Adaptation - Although it was published in 2013, this resource aggregates and analyzes some current federal programs with potential to pay for state and local government adaptation to urban heat islands. 16C: Promote energy efficiency and waste heat reduction DOE State Energy Program Competitive Financial Assistance Program - This program provides funding and technical assistance to states and territories to enhance energy security, advance state-led energy initiatives, and decrease energy waste. Georgetown Climate Center Federal Funding Compendium for Urban Heat Adaptation - Although it was published in 2013, this resource aggregates and analyzes some current federal programs with potential to pay for state and local government adaptation to urban heat islands. 19A: Educate residents about the health impacts of poor air quality and provide an effective advance warning program for elevated pollution days (None located to date) 19B: Develop and implement a plan for high air pollution days that calls for both public and private action (None located to date) 19C: Develop local air pollution reduction programs Indiana Volkswagen Environmental Mitigation Trust Program - This program provides grant opportunities for clean air projects that will significantly reduce diesel emissions across Indiana. DOT Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement (CMAQ) Program - The CMAQ program provides flexible funding to local and state governments for transportation projects and programs to reduce congestion and improve air quality for 88 Climate Action Plan 2022 19 areas that do not meet the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (nonattainment areas) or maintenance areas. 21A: Educate about heat related illness and prevention Georgetown Climate Center Federal Funding Compendium for Urban Heat Adaptation - Although it was published in 2013, this resource aggregates and analyzes some current federal programs with potential to pay for state and local government adaptation to urban heat islands. 21B: Conduct a heat vulnerability assessment and develop a heat management plan Georgetown Climate Center Federal Funding Compendium for Urban Heat Adaptation - Although it was published in 2013, this resource aggregates and analyzes some current federal programs with potential to pay for state and local government adaptation to urban heat islands. 21C: Implement programs or activities that reduce heat impacts in the built environment Georgetown Climate Center Federal Funding Compendium for Urban Heat Adaptation - Although it was published in 2013, this resource aggregates and analyzes some current federal programs with potential to pay for state and local government adaptation to urban heat islands. Model Forest Policy Program Implementation Assistance - This program is available to communities who have already assessed climate risks and identified resilience goals. MFPP assists communities with implementing adaptation goals. National Park Service Land and Water Conservation Fund - This program provides matching grants to states and local governments for the acquisition and development of public outdoor recreation areas and facilities. Preparing for Extreme Precipitation 3A: Understand and address green stormwater collection and treatment system weaknesses, ensuring capacities are appropriate for heavier precipitation events Getting to Green: Paying for Green Infrastructure - This document offers a useful summary of the different types of funding sources, their advantages and disadvantages, and examples of several municipal programs that have employed them. Climate Action Plan 2022 89 20 3C: Develop adaptive stormwater management best practices and integrate them into a plan to reduce stormwater runoff from impervious surfaces Indiana Community Development Block Grants - These grants are available to rural communities to assist with projects that include sewer and water systems, community centers, health and safety programs, main street revitalization, stormwater improvements, and more. DOT Transportation Alternatives Program - The Transportation Alternatives program provides funding to local and state governments to pursue community improvements such as vegetation management, and environmental mitigation related to stormwater management. Great Lakes Restoration Initiative - EPA expects to award funding for about nonpoint source projects in five categories addressing agricultural nutrients and stormwater runoff. Water Infrastructure and Resiliency Finance System - This USEPA resource provides financial expertise to communities that are financing drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure. 3D: Increase street sweeping and stormwater drain maintenance Indiana Community Focus Fund - This program supports infrastructure improvement that can be used for water, sewer, and storm drainage. 6C: Involve critical facility and emergency infrastructure managers in climate change preparedness and management (None located to date) 6G: Design and launch a community volunteer response program Hazardous Materials Emergency Preparedness (HMEP) Grant Program - HMEP grants are awarded to Local Emergency Planning Committees and can be used to determine the need within a state for regional hazardous materials emergency response teams. 7A: Educate residents about steps they can take to improve personal emergency preparedness Indiana Emergency Management Performance Grants (EMPG) - These grants are available to local, state, territorial, and tribal governments and can be used for preparation for all hazards. 90 Climate Action Plan 2022 21 8A: Work internally and with the local utility to increase power supply preparedness DOE State Energy Program Competitive Financial Assistance Program - This program provides funding and technical assistance to states and territories to enhance energy security, advance state-led energy initiatives, and decrease energy waste. 8B: Encourage alternative energy generation, energy storage systems, and distributed energy DOE Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Funding Opportunity Exchange - This website provides funding opportunity announcements related to bioenergy, buildings, carbon capture, geothermal, solar power, weatherization, wind power, and more. Indiana Weatherization Assistance Program - The U.S. Department of Energy Weatherization Assistance Program reduces energy costs for low-income households by increasing the energy efficiency of their homes. The program is administered by state, through county-level organizations. Choice Neighborhoods - The Choice Neighborhoods program encourages communities to implement a variety of reforms to attack the causes of poverty, with the end goal of transforming low-income communities and public housing projects into mixed-income neighborhoods. Reforms can address many areas, such as building transportation infrastructure, improving public schools, and increasing access to jobs and services. Under this program, applicants can apply for either a planning grant or an implementation grant to address a particular neighborhood. Applicants must include certain activities in their transformation plans, such as improving or replacing public housing project, including using energy-efficient principles to upgrade housing. Community Development Block Grants (Entitlement Communities) - The CBDG Entitlement Program provides annual grants to entitled cities and counties to develop viable urban communities by providing decent housing and a suitable living environment, and by expanding economic opportunities, principally for low- and moderate- income persons. These funds may be used for activities relating to energy conservation and renewable energy resources; construction of public facilities and improvements, such as water and sewer facilities, streets, neighborhood centers, and the conversion of school buildings for eligible purposes; and provision of assistance to profit-motivated businesses to carry out economic development and job creation/retention activities; among other activities. Climate Action Plan 2022 91 22 Community Development Block Grant (States Program) - Through the CBDG States Program, states award grants to smaller units of general local government that develop and preserve decent affordable housing, to provide services to the most vulnerable in our communities, and to create and retain jobs. These funds may be used for activities relating to energy conservation and renewable energy resources. In addition, cities can incorporate heat-smart design, such as by including shading mechanisms and cool roofs on residential units, or by adopting green infrastructure principles (like street trees and permeable pavements) in street design. These grants go to states for smaller communities within the states. Non-entitlement areas are cities with populations of less than 50,000 (except cities that are designated principal cities of Metropolitan Statistical Areas), and counties with populations of less than 200,000. 8C: Install back-up power options for critical facilities and systems DOE State Energy Program Competitive Financial Assistance Program - This program provides funding and technical assistance to states and territories to enhance energy security, advance state-led energy initiatives, and decrease energy waste. 16B: Designate vegetation protection areas DOT Transportation Alternatives Program - The Transportation Alternatives program provides funding to local and state governments to pursue community improvements such as vegetation management. USDA Agricultural Management Assistance Program - This opportunity is appropriate after land has been designated for protection. This program is available to agricultural land (government parcels or not) and nonindustrial private forest land. Technical and financial assistance is provided to plant trees for windbreaks or diversify operation and conservation practices. Georgetown Climate Center Federal Funding Compendium for Urban Heat Adaptation - Although it was published in 2013, this resource aggregates and analyzes some current federal programs with potential to pay for state and local government adaptation to urban heat islands. Preparing for Land Use in the Floodplain 92 Climate Action Plan 2022 1B: Prepare bridge openings, culverts, and ditches for flooding Community Crossings Matching Grant - Provides funding to cities, towns, and counties across Indiana to make improvements to local roads and bridges. Eligible projects could include road resurfacing and preservation, bridge rehabilitation or replacement, and more. 2C: Develop and adopt policies and procedures for post-flood repairs (None located to date) 6F: Develop a debris management plan to direct post-flood response FEMA Pre-Disaster Mitigation Grant Program - Local and state governments, territories, and federally-recognized tribes can apply to this program for planning and project grants that seek to reduce future losses before disaster strikes. 15A: Complete the USEPA’s Flood Resilience Checklist FEMA Flood Mitigation Assistance Grant Program - Local and state governments, territories, and federally-recognized tribes can apply to this program for projects and planning that reduces or eliminates long-term risk of flood damage to structure insured under the National Flood Insurance Program. 15B: Participate in the National Flood Insurance Program Community Rating System FEMA Flood Mitigation Assistance Grant Program - Local and state governments, territories, and federally-recognized tribes can apply to this program for projects and planning that reduces or eliminates long-term risk of flood damage to structure insured under the National Flood Insurance Program. Climate Action Plan 2022 93 Case Studies The chart below provides case studies that demonstrate how other Midwestern local governments have completed these initiatives. A database of these and other case studies is available at https://eri.iu.edu/erit/case-studies/index.html. Preparedness Actions Related Case Studies Preparing for Social and Economic Burdens 4A: Evaluate how climate change impacts could affect the local economy (No case study yet. Please tell us if you know of an existing program we can cover) 4B: Incorporate climate and disaster resilience into economic development strategic plan Grand Rapids, Michigan Includes Sustainability as a Core Part of its Strategic Plan 4C: Consider and plan for implications of climate change on the local job market (No case study yet. Please tell us if you know of an existing program we can cover) 4D: Establish a protocol for providing assistance to residents that may face finance strain caused by climate hazards (No case study yet. Please tell us if you know of an existing program we can cover) 4E: Develop a plan for accepting people displaced by climate change impacts (No case study yet. Please tell us if you know of an existing program we can cover) 7C: Enhance community networks and connections for vulnerable communities (No case study yet. Please tell us if you know of an existing program we can cover) 8D: Establish a protocol for providing assistance to residents who may face financial strain caused by higher energy costs Cincinnati Energy Aggregation Program Reduces Utility Costs and Supports Renewable Energy 18C: Integrate funding for readiness actions into the local government’s financial planning. Grand Rapids, Michigan Includes Sustainability as a Core Part of its Strategic Plan 94 Climate Action Plan 2022 25 Preparing for Extreme Heat Events 1A: Prepare roadways and bridges for higher maximum temperatures and more freeze-thaw events (No case study yet. Please tell us if you know of an existing program we can cover) 6B: Identify and protect critical infrastructure from higher temperatures (No case study yet. Please tell us if you know of an existing program we can cover) 6C: Involve critical facility and emergency infrastructure managers in climate change preparedness and management Minnesota Assesses Climate Risk to Public Health 6G: Design and launch a community volunteer response program (No case study yet. Please tell us if you know of an existing program we can cover) 7A: Educate residents about steps they can take to improve personal emergency preparedness (No case study yet. Please tell us if you know of an existing program we can cover) 16A: Pass a tree canopy ordinance (No case study yet. Please tell us if you know of an existing program we can cover) 16B: Designate vegetation protection areas (No case study yet. Please tell us if you know of an existing program we can cover) 16C: Promote energy efficiency and waste heat reduction Indianapolis, Indiana Converts Streetlamps to LED 19A: Educate residents about the health impacts of poor air quality and provide an effective advance warning program for elevated pollution days (No case study yet. Please tell us if you know of an existing program we can cover) 19B: Develop and implement a plan for high air pollution days that calls for both public and private action Cincinnati Creates an Air Quality Advisory Action Plan for City Operations 19C: Develop local air pollution reduction programs Cincinnati Creates an Air Quality Advisory Action Plan for City Operations School District in East Chicago, Indiana, Purchases Propane Buses to Address Local Public Health Concerns Climate Action Plan 2022 95 26 21A: Educate about heat related illness and prevention (No case study yet. Please tell us if you know of an existing program we can cover) 21B: Conduct a heat vulnerability assessment and develop a heat management plan (No case study yet. Please tell us if you know of an existing program we can cover) 21C: Implement programs or activities that reduce heat impacts in the built environment (No case study yet. Please tell us if you know of an existing program we can cover) Preparing for Extreme Precipitation Events 3A: Understand and address green stormwater collection and treatment system weaknesses, ensuring capacities are appropriate for heavier precipitation events Minnehaha, MN Creek Watershed District Assesses Stormwater Management Climate Vulnerability 3C: Develop adaptive stormwater management best practices and integrate them into a plan to reduce stormwater runoff from impervious surfaces (No case study yet. Please tell us if you know of an existing program we can cover) 3D: Increase street sweeping and stormwater drain maintenance (No case study yet. Please tell us if you know of an existing program we can cover) 6C: Involve critical facility and emergency infrastructure managers in climate change preparedness and management Minnesota Assesses Climate Risk to Public Health 6G: Design and launch a community volunteer response program (No case study yet. Please tell us if you know of an existing program we can cover) 7A: Educate residents about steps they can take to improve personal emergency preparedness (No case study yet. Please tell us if you know of an existing program we can cover) 8A: Work internally and with the local utility to increase power supply preparedness Vigo County, Indiana Improves Resilience to Energy Disruptions with Solar Power 8B: Encourage alternative energy generation, energy storage systems, and distributed energy Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana Replaces Coal-fired Boilers with Campus-Wide Geothermal Energy Benton County, Indiana, Successfully Sites Wind Energy, Protects Rural Roads from Damage 96 Climate Action Plan 2022 27 Bloomington, Indiana diversifies its energy supply with residential and municipal solar Cincinnati Energy Aggregation Program Reduces Utility Costs and Supports Renewable Energy Michiana Area Council of Governments Helps Catalyze Solar Installations Throughout Northern Indiana School District in East Chicago, Indiana, Purchases Propane Buses to Address Local Public Health Concerns White County, Indiana saves money and boosts the economy with wind energy Vigo County, Indiana Improves Resilience to Energy Disruptions with Solar Power 8C: Install back-up power options for critical facilities and systems Vigo County, Indiana Improves Resilience to Energy Disruptions with Solar Power 16B: Designate vegetation protection areas (No case study yet. Please tell us if you know of an existing program we can cover) Preparing for Land Use in the Floodplain 1B: Prepare bridge openings, culverts, and ditches for flooding (No case study yet. Please tell us if you know of an existing program we can cover) 2C: Develop and adopt policies and procedures for post-flood repairs Minnehaha, MN Creek Watershed District Assesses Stormwater Management Climate Vulnerability 6F: Develop a debris management plan to direct post-flood response Northeast Indiana Counties Collaborate to Develop Debris Management Plans 15A: Complete the USEPA’s Flood Resilience Checklist (No case study yet. Please tell us if you know of an existing program we can cover) 15B: Participate in the National Flood Insurance Program Community Rating System (No case study yet. Please tell us if you know of an existing program we can cover) Climate Action Plan 2022 97 i Multihazard Mitigation Council (2018). Natural Hazard Mitigation Saves: 2018 Interim Report. Principal Investigator Porter, K.; co-Principal Investigators Scawthorn, C.; Huyck, C.; Investigators: Eguchi, R., Hu, Z.; Reeder, A; Schneider, P., Director, MMC. National Institute of Building Sciences, Washington, D.C. www.nibs.org. ii Hoosier Resilience Index, “Climate Vulnerability: Richmond, IN.” Retrieved Jan 2, 2021, from https://hri.eri.iu.edu/climate- vulnerability/index.html?placeid=Richmond#climateExpoHead. iii Widhalm, M., Hamlet, A. Byun, K., Robeson, S., Baldwin, M., Staten, P., Chiu, C., Coleman, J., Hall, B., Hoogewind, K., Huber, M., Kieu, C., Yoo, J., Dukes, J.S. 2018. Indiana’s Past & Future Climate: A Report from the Indiana Climate Change Impacts Assessment. Purdue Climate Change Research Center, Purdue University. West Lafayette, Indiana. https://bit.ly/2KDsaga. iv Ibid. v Hoosier Resilience Index, “Climate Vulnerability: Richmond, IN.” Retrieved Jan 2, 2021, from https://hri.eri.iu.edu/climate- vulnerability/index.html?placeid=Richmond#climateExpoHead. 98 Climate Action Plan 2022 Climate Action Plan 2022 99 100 Climate Action Plan 2022 Climate Action Plan 2022 101 102 Climate Action Plan 2022 Climate Action Plan 2022 103 104 Climate Action Plan 2022 Climate Action Plan 2022 105 106 Climate Action Plan 2022 Climate Action Plan 2022 107 108 Climate Action Plan 2022 Climate Action Plan 2022 109 110 Climate Action Plan 2022 Climate Action Plan 2022 111 112 Climate Action Plan 2022 Climate Action Plan 2022 113 114 Climate Action Plan 2022 Climate Action Plan 2022 115 116 Climate Action Plan 2022 Climate Action Plan 2022 117 118 Climate Action Plan 2022 Climate Action Plan 2022 119 120 Climate Action Plan 2022 Climate Action Plan 2022 121 122 Climate Action Plan 2022 Climate Action Plan 2022 123 124 Climate Action Plan 2022 Climate Action Plan 2022 125 126 Climate Action Plan 2022 Climate Action Plan 2022 127 128 Climate Action Plan 2022 Climate Action Plan 2022 129 130 Climate Action Plan 2022 Climate Action Plan 2022 131 132 Climate Action Plan 2022 Climate Action Plan 2022 133 134 Climate Action Plan 2022 Climate Action Plan 2022 135 136 Climate Action Plan 2022 CITY OF RICHMOND 765-983-7200 50 North 5th Street Richmond, Indiana 47374