THE MAIN IMPACTS:

Erosion Beach erosion is likely to continue to significantly threaten oceanfront beach homes and neighborhoods, with Phillips Beach losing about 2 feet per year.

Habitat Concerns About 11 (18%) of Swampscott’s 63 acres of ocean beaches may become open water by 2050 [CIT. 2]. Beaches and rocky intertidal areas could be threatened by rising sea level and future intense storms.

Developed Coast Ten-year storm flooding may affect buildings by Phillips Beach near Route 129/129A along with areas behind King’s Beach and near Puritan Road and Blodgett Avenue in 2050 [CIT. 1,3].

OTHER RISKS INCLUDE:

Property Damage A 10-year storm in Swampscott could flood more than 357 buildings (6.3%) in 2050 [CIT. 3]. Chronic daily tidal flooding may impact four buildings (0.1%) in 2050 [CIT. 1].

Road Flooding Daily high tides may have a minimal impact in 2050 [CIT. 1]. An estimated 4.0 miles (7.3%) of roadway could flood in a 100-year storm in 2050 [CIT. 3].

STRATEGY SNAPSHOT: PROTECTIVE LIVING REEF

Swampscott’s Harbor and Waterfront Plan proposes the development of a “protective living reef” breakwater system to ensure resiliency in the case of climate-driven intensified storm surge, flooding, and wave energy. The breakwater structures could attract sea life, create new habitat, and protect waterfront and harbor assets (piers, vessels, beach amenities, buildings) as well as beaches, buildings, and roads along Fisherman’s Beach and Lincoln House point. Used increasingly as a “green” solution to climate change by communities worldwide, living reefs also incorporate natural habitat and increase biodiversity.