Researcher ORCID Identifier

0009-0000-1596-7490

Graduation Year

2025

Document Type

Open Access Senior Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Department

Environmental Analysis

Reader 1

Lance Neckar

Reader 2

Susan Phillips

Terms of Use & License Information

Terms of Use for work posted in Scholarship@Claremont.

Rights Information

© 2025 Katherine Helena Brosnan

Abstract

Sustainable Community Development (SCD) is widely debated as a climate mitigation strategy, with recognized benefits such as reducing carbon footprints, enhancing public health, and fostering economic resilience. However, a major critique is its limited accessibility to marginalized communities. In particular, the resilience embedded in rebuilding plans does not necessarily translate to real access for those whose insurance coverage may not be sufficient to afford conventional design services or reconstruction costs. This thesis argues that while SCD is an effective tool for climate mitigation, its success depends on equitable access—not just in principle, but in the material capacity to participate in and benefit from rebuilding efforts. Using Altadena, CA, as a model, this research applies resilient urban planning principles — incorporating SCD and LEED certification — to mitigate the effects of the Eaton wildfire disaster and enhance long-term climate resilience. The methodology includes mapping, site visits, stakeholder interviews, and a neighborhood redesign within Altadena. The final deliverable proposes a sustainable, walkable community redesign along Morada Place, El Molino Avenue, Mendocino Avenue, and Lake Avenue. Ultimately, this study demonstrates that SCD can be a powerful climate resilience strategy, but its impact depends on equitable implementation.

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