Ryan Resilience Lab
Norfolk, Virginia
The Ryan Resilience Lab, led by the Elizabeth River Project, is a model for climate adaptation in coastal urban areas. Located in Norfolk, Virginia, SGA transformed a hardened shoreline into a resilient landscape featuring tidal wetlands, rain gardens, and pervious surfaces for natural stormwater management. An elevated boardwalk provides access while supporting habitat restoration and public engagement. As part of Norfolk’s EcoDistrict, the project incorporates a pioneering rolling conservation easement to allow future retreat as sea levels rise. Designed to evolve over time, the site functions as a living classroom, blending ecological innovation, community connection, and forward-thinking resilience strategies.