Abstract
Beginning in January 2022, the University of Miami Office of Civic and Community Engagement, affiliated faculty, and community partners embarked on a research study to examine the genesis, criteria, and relevance of the term “climate gentrification” as it relates to concerns about equitable development in Miami. Historically, low-income communities of color in Miami were relegated to higher-elevation, inland areas away from downtown and desirable waterfront locations. Today, however, the definition of “desirable location” is shifting, with land that offers greater climate protection – particularly higher-elevation and inland properties – in greater demand than ever before. This project explores how climate change impacts affordability and neighborhood change in Miami, Florida. It combines an academic literature review with community conversations to ground research in lived experience, engaging a cross-sector coalition of academics, advocates, architects, developers, policymakers, and community groups to advance equitable climate adaptation and mitigation strategies and address the housing crisis.