Greening Public Infrastructure for Local Climate Resilience: A Case Study of the Mount Vernon District in Virginia

Source abstract

Urban climate risks, particularly extreme heat and flooding, increasingly threaten public infrastructure in rapidly urbanizing regions. Public schools represent critical community assets, yet their spatial planning often overlooks the role of natural capital in mitigating environmental risks. This study examines the intersection of natural capital and urban design through a case study of public schools in the Mount Vernon District of Fairfax County, Virginia. Using cartographic modeling and spatial analysis, the study assesses school-site exposure to urban heat island effects and localized flood risks by integrating geospatial data on land cover, surface temperature, and hydrological conditions. Results indicate that all analyzed school sites exhibit notable vulnerability to both heat exposure and flooding. The findings highlight the importance of incorporating natural capital—such as expanded tree canopy, green infrastructure, and permeable surfaces—into school site planning to enhance climate resilience and environmental quality.