by Mike Colpitts 
Housing has undergone huge transformations to bolster resilience after natural disasters in Southwest Florida. Housing upgrades protect from hurricanes and not only safeguard lives and real estate but also preserve the region’s unique ecosystems, including the Everglades.
Florida’s vulnerability to hurricanes and flooding is significant. Hurricane Ian, which struck in 2022, underscored the region’s exposure to storm surges and heavy rainfall. In Everglades City up to nine feet of surge inundated homes, highlighting the critical need for elevated structures to prevent flood damage.
In response, various initiatives have been implemented to enhance housing resilience. The Florida Division of Emergency Management’s Hurricane Loss Mitigation Program provides funding for retrofitting homes to withstand hurricane-force winds and flooding.
Upgrades Protect from Hurricanes
One of the most effective strategies has been the elevation of homes. The Collier Community Foundation, in collaboration with local authorities, has committed funding to raise homes in flood-prone areas like Everglades City. 
This approach has proven successful; homes elevated after Hurricane Irma sustained no flood damage during Hurricane Ian.
The evolution of housing in Southwest Florida reflects a proactive stance toward disaster resilience. The average price for elevating a home in the current marketplace is $40,000 for a 1400 square foot home. Through the elevation of homes, integration of smart technologies and preservation of natural ecosystems like the Everglades, the region is enhancing its capacity to withstand and recover from hurricanes. Efforts not only protect lives and properties but also ensure the sustainability of the unique environmental heritage of Southwest Florida.
Innovations in technology are also playing a pivotal role in disaster resilience. Babcock Ranch has incorporated smart stormwater technology that utilizes real-time weather data to manage floodwaters proactively. This system can adjust water levels in retention ponds before storms, reducing the risk of homes flooding.
Recognizing Housing Upgrades
Recognizing the interconnectedness housing upgrades protect from hurricanes damaging forces. Southwest Florida jurisdictions have united under the Southwest Florida Resiliency Compact. This coalition includes Collier, Lee, and Charlotte counties. Together, they aim to enhance the region’s ability to protect natural resources and bolster resilience against climate change impacts.
The Everglades, a vast network of wetlands and forests, play a crucial role in mitigating flood risks from hurricanes and flooding. Efforts to preserve and restore this ecosystem are integral to the region’s disaster resilience strategy. The Miccosukee Tribe of Indians is actively involved in conservation initiatives, including controlling invasive species and reintroducing native wildlife, to maintain the Everglades’ natural flood control functions. The Everglades has been a natural buffer from hurricanes for as long as the glades have existed.
Statewide Initiatives: The Resilient Florida Program
At the state level, the Resilient Florida Program, represents a comprehensive approach to addressing sea level rise and intensified storms, including the recognition that hurricanes are becoming more powerful. The program provides funding for counties to analyze vulnerabilities and implement mitigation projects, strengthening housing resilience and protect from hurricanes and other disasters across the state.