Daniel B. Robbins, PE, Senior Project Manager, GEI Consultants, Inc., and COPRI Boston Chapter Chair
The Coasts, Oceans, Ports, and Rivers Institute (COPRI) of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) marked a significant milestone in 2025—its 25th anniversary as a national leader in advancing sustainable coastal infrastructure and engineering practices. Since its founding, COPRI has served as a platform for collaboration among engineers, scientists, policymakers, and professionals working to protect and enhance our coasts and waterways.
This year’s major highlight was the 17th triennial PORTS Conference, PORTS ’25: Navigating to Our Future Ports, held June 1–4 at the Rhode Island Convention Center in Providence. The event set a new attendance record for ASCE COPRI, drawing more than 1,000 participants from around the world. With 58 ninety-minute technical sessions, 9 short courses, and 96 exhibitors, PORTS ’25 featured a wide array of content spanning climate resilience, maritime innovation, port planning, and infrastructure modernization.
The next PORTS Conference is scheduled for May 2028 in Mobile, Alabama.
Earlier in the year, representatives from the Boston Society of Civil Engineers Section (BSCES) COPRI Chapter attended the ASCE COPRI Leadership Summit in Reston, Virginia. Held February 6–7, the summit brought together national leadership—including the COPRI Board of Governors and chapter leaders—to refine strategic plans and foster regional collaboration. Breakout sessions focused on boosting chapter engagement in a post-COVID environment and explored ways to strengthen ties with ASCE cross-council initiatives.
Locally, COPRI Boston Chapter remains active in strengthening the professional community. Over the past year, the chapter hosted a technical webinar exploring flood vulnerability due to sea level rise and coastal storm surge. The session included methodologies for prioritizing at-risk infrastructure, especially roadways, and discussed community engagement strategies for long-term resilience planning. Key planning tools and real-world case studies were shared to help communities make informed, forward-looking decisions.
Looking ahead, the COPRI Boston is preparing to resume in-person gatherings while continuing to offer valuable technical programming for members across New England’s waterfront and port industries.
BSCES COPRI is actively seeking new members from both the private and public sectors. Professionals interested in coastal, port, and waterway infrastructure are encouraged to get involved. Monthly meetings are open to all, and ASCE members can join COPRI at no additional cost. Students are especially welcome to join for free, gaining access to valuable networking and educational opportunities.
For more information, visit www.bsces.org or contact the chapter directly at [email protected].