Another project that is just getting underway is an effort to identify the multi-faceted impact climate change and rising sea levels will have on our region. Led by former President Jim Koch and oceanography Professor Larry Atkinson, the project will pull together the university and region's foremost experts to find solutions to the anticipated effects on our economy, housing, ports, and infrastructure.
President John Broderick, State of the University 2010, August 24, 2010

How does an urban region such as ours adapt to climate change and sea level rise?

Hampton Roads is one of the unique coastal regions that is and will be impacted by climate change. Combinations of rising sea level, potentially stronger storms and changing ocean and estuary conditions will challenge all aspects of life in the region.

The waterways, estuaries, beaches, marshes and open ocean all make the region very habitable and very important for maritime commerce and national security. How can the region maximize the positive attributes we enjoy with the challenges nature presents us with?

Old Dominion University is currently determining what its role will be in addressing these challenges.

The city of Norfolk is sinking slowly into the water at the same time the sea level is rising, and so we are getting more and more water into the city every year.
Norfolk Mayor Paul Fraim, August 25, 2010