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    As development increases in the region, neighborhoods are more likely to experience flooding and stormwater runoff due to climate change's projected intensification of rainfall. However, a real estate developer claims it's possible to make communities more resilient while increasing residential opportunities.

    Hankin Group is restoring the floodplain along Lionville Run in Exton, Chester County, where the stream cuts through their 19-acre luxury apartment complex, Keva Flats. The company has set aside $2.4 million to widen and flatten the channel, plant native trees and shrubs, and control sedimentation.

    "This project allows us to achieve biodiversity, lower floodplain elevation, remove sediment from the stream channel, and use it for stormwater management," said Neal Fisher, vice president of development at Hankin Group.

    The project also involves expanding Keva Flats with 96 additional units. As Exton becomes more developed, the area faces increased stormwater runoff and flooding due to water moving faster over paved surfaces than vegetated areas, according to Virginia Smith, a professor of civil and environmental engineering at Villanova University.

    Hankin Group has begun construction on the project, which aims to restore the floodplain along Lionville Run. The company's efforts are crucial in mitigating the effects of climate change and development, said Smith.

    "With increased development, we need projects that capture large volumes of water and restore watersheds to their natural states," Smith said. "This will become more critical as storm events worsen due to climate change."

    West Whiteland Township officials have also expressed concerns about flooding in the area, citing recent heavy rain events that have impacted residents.

    "We hope more developers will consider projects that make our community more resilient to climate change," said John Weller, West Whiteland Township's director of planning and zoning. "Our goal is to have a community that can endure intense rain events with zero damage to property and no loss of life."