Mobilities Journal

Climate Crisis: Rural Town's Accessibility Damaged by Flooding


In early April, torrential downpours hit central Ohio, causing flooding to destroy a bridge entrance into a large neighborhood. According to WBNS 10TV News, this area has had floods before, but never this large or dangerous. This flooding caused the bridge to partially collapse, now unable to drive across. This was the only entrance into this neighborhood, with the only other option to walk across the bridge. Those who have vehicles are now unable to cross the bridge to leave their neighborhood, and those without vehicles are unable to have close public transportation. This makes it almost impossible for all residents to get groceries, water, and go to work. While in an urban area, this may make it possible as it is a very walkable area, this part of central Ohio is extremely rural. No grocery stores are within walking distance, and most have to drive a long distance to get to their jobs. Due to the impacts of climate change continuously causing heavy rains, floods, high temperatures, and many other impacts, transportation will continue to be severely affected. This severe damage caused by flooding from climate change is going to impact people’s access to school, work, or any location. There are much fewer roads in rural areas and often very few other transportation options. Bus stops not be in walking distance, and there are fewer options to allow increased public transportation. Climate change will continue to have a large impact on all areas and will continue to affect people’s access to mobility. 


Lauren Dienna

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  1. Climate Change david kim
  2. Accessibility david kim

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