Since the finalization of Nantucket’s Coastal Resilience Plan (CRP) in late 2021, the Town of Nantucket has made significant strides in implementing strategies to mitigate the impacts of sea level rise and coastal flooding. The CRP, a comprehensive 286-page document, outlines a roadmap of 40 projects aimed at safeguarding the island’s infrastructure, cultural heritage, and natural resources over the next 5 to 15 years. The estimated cost of $830 – $900 million is high, but the estimated cost of damages and destruction if the plan is not implemented is $3.4 billion, so let’s review what’s been going on since  my last post.

Six Key Achievements Since 2022:

Appointment of Coastal Resilience Coordinator:

Leah Hill was hired in 2023 to be the dedicated Town employee charged with coordinating the Coastal Resilience Advisory Committee’s (CRAC) strategy by working with various organizations to implement the CRP. Obtaining necessary funding through grants has also been a focus.

Community Engagement:

CRAC meets every second and fourth Tuesday of the month, and it’s open to the public to attend, learn, and engage with the CRP. The committee is currently conducting a property owner survey that will help it develop informational materials to support homeowners in adopting best practices. They also published a brochure for real estate agents and prospective buyers, which can be found here.

Establishment of Coastal Resilience Districts:

In May 2024, Nantucket voters approved the creation of Coastal Resilience Districts. This initiative allows the Town to segment areas based on unique challenges and allocate resources effectively for coastal resilience projects. A proposal to impose betterment fees on property owners benefiting from these projects was shot down, highlighting ongoing discussions about funding mechanisms.

Washington Street Resilience Framework:

Recognizing the vulnerability of the Washington Street corridor—a vital transportation route along Nantucket Harbor—the Town, in collaboration with the Nantucket Land Bank, initiated a project to enhance the area’s resilience. In August 2023, a joint planning committee was formed to develop a comprehensive plan, which includes constructing an elevated coastal barrier, a multi-use path, and expanding stormwater wetlands to manage runoff.

Easy Street Park Development:

Completed in 2021, Easy Street Park serves as a model for integrating flood mitigation with public space. Designed by Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates for the Nantucket Islands Land Bank, the park features an elevated boardwalk, permeable decking, and native vegetation to manage stormwater and withstand coastal flooding. This project exemplifies how thoughtful design can enhance both resilience and community enjoyment.

Francis Street Beach Improvement Project:

As the first phase of the Washington Street Resilience Framework, this pilot project aims to create resilient waterfront recreational amenities while reducing flooding along Washington Street. The design includes a flood protection structure beneath an elevated multi-use path, an ADA-accessible deck with terraced seating, and a stormwater park to mitigate inland flooding. These conceptual designs are advancing through community engagement and feedback from permitting agencies.

These initiatives reflect Nantucket’s proactive approach to addressing the challenges posed by climate change. By prioritizing critical infrastructure, preserving cultural assets, and engaging the community, the Town is laying a solid foundation for a resilient future. As the CRP evolves, ongoing collaboration among town departments, community groups, and stakeholders will be essential to adapting to changing conditions and ensuring the island’s long-term sustainability.