Houston

Houston’s Resilience Journey

Houston is a diverse, thriving metropolis in Southeastern Texas, driven by the large presence of the energy industry, renowned research institutions, and strong neighborhoods.

Situated on the Gulf Coast, the city has worked to prepare for the extreme weather events and severe storms to which it is vulnerable. Houston’s response to Hurricane Harvey in 2017 validated the city’s readiness to predict meteorological threats, communicate with citizens, and make rapid and informed crisis decisions.

But Houston remains vulnerable to less familiar shocks and stresses, which, left unaddressed, will the city’s Houston’s efforts to thrive in a rapidly changing global economy.

By taking steps to address chronic stresses, such as traffic congestion, homelessness, and economic disparity, Houston will be equipped with the strong foundation needed to be prepared and responsive. Houston is now investing financial, intellectual, and political capital not only in “building back” but also in “building forward” – strengthening long-term resilience by redesigning infrastructure, overhauling building codes, accelerating an affordable housing strategy, leveraging innovative partnerships, and coordinating regional policies.

Houston’s participation in 100RC was supported by Shell.

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News and Resources

Speaker Series 2025 #11 | Designing Together: The OASIS schoolyard model

Speaker Series 2025 #11 | Designing Together: The OASIS schoolyard model

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Speaker Series 2025 #10 | Waste’s Invisible Workforce: From Informal to Inclusive 

Speaker Series 2025 #10 | Waste’s Invisible Workforce: From Informal to Inclusive 

Informal waste workers are often at the frontline of urban waste collection and recycling, yet their work is frequently undervalued and inadequately supported. Operating under challenging ...
Speaker Series 2025 #09 | Scaling Resilient Communities: Tools for Action

Speaker Series 2025 #09 | Scaling Resilient Communities: Tools for Action

Across the globe, residents, small businesses and local organizations are finding new ways to tackle extreme heat, flooding and other climate challenges. While each community faces unique risks, ...
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