Futureproof: Sea Level Rise and eVTOLs Reshape Coastal Cities
Future Narrative
When they started modifying the city’s coastline in 2021 to accommodate rising sea levels, I knew it was just the beginning. The continued rise of sea levels has redefined our streets, and the rise of EVTOL travel has reshaped the urban landscape of our metropolis. Today, innovative, adaptable street-level structures are helping to futureproof the city against rising sea levels. At the same time, our building's upper floors extend outward and are increasingly interconnected by new skywalks.
Height adjustable highways are now appearing across many coastal cities, futurproofing ground traffic infrastructure against future sea level rise.
EVTOLs are reshaping the skyline as landing platforms become vital transportation hubs.
EVTOL landing platforms provide net opportunities to interlink buildings above ground level.
Technology
Breakthroughs in concrete are reshaping our cities. Permeable concrete is used at street level, where things are still above ground, to allow water to drain between high-water events. Lightweight and strong carbon fiber-embedded concrete empowers architects to create more robust, lighter structures, increasing the square footage in our skyline.
Implications
Advances in building technologies, aerial mobility, and climate change may dramatically reshape our city skylines. Coastal cities must begin implementing plans to mitigate sea level rise and enhance the resilience of their infrastructure.
Related Concepts and Research
The Financial District and Seaport Climate Resilience Master Plan
New York City Is Sinking Under The Weight Of Its Own Buildings
Skyportz: ‘Waterfront vertiports are the future for advanced air mobility’
Future Flight: The Rise of Advanced Air Mobility
How Flying Taxis Revolutionize Urban Transit
Futureproof is a series of occasional provocations illustrating possible future paths for technology and culture. Think postcards from the future.