T
he Urban Land Institute (ULI) Boston/New England's Climate Resiliency Committee has received the ULI District Council 2025 Showcase of Excellence Award for its innovative project, Living Better: Regenerative Design for People and Environment. This initiative reimagines climate resiliency by developing systems that create net-positive outcomes ecologically, socially, and economically.

    Building on previous research efforts, including Living with Water and Living with Heat, the project focuses on the Lower Mystic River Watershed, particularly in climate-vulnerable areas like Chelsea and Everett. It introduces a regenerative design framework to restore ecosystems while enhancing community resilience and equity through interdisciplinary collaboration.

    "This award validates our commitment to promoting cutting-edge best practices in land use," said Catherine Rollins, Director of ULI Boston/New England. "We're encouraged to continue creating transformative change, enabling communities to thrive as part of resilient ecosystems."

    The initiative launched with a full-day workshop involving over 40 members and experts who explored regenerative strategies for real-world development projects. These strategies will be compiled into a formal report later this year to inform and inspire land use professionals and municipalities.

    The ULI Americas District Council Awards recognize exceptional programs that reflect the Urban Land Institute's mission to shape the future of the built environment for transformative impact in communities worldwide. The Living Better project showcases local leadership and collaboration driving scalable, sustainable solutions to pressing challenges.