Charlestown Main Street Interim Flood Protection Project
This project will install deployable flood barrier infrastructure between 525 and 529 Main Street in Charlestown. When deployed, it will block the flood pathway that passes through this location from the Mystic River.
Project Phase
Project Information
During a coastal flood event, the City will deploy this flood barrier to help protect the neighborhood behind it. This effort is part of a citywide coastal flood resilience plan.
The deployable portion consists of eight removable posts and several aluminum stop logs. The permanent components are three concrete pillars and three sections of low concrete walls. The project also includes a 20-foot-long swing gate. Other site improvements will help with the flood barrier installation, including:
- a raised crosswalk
- upgraded sidewalks, and
- improved pedestrian ramps.
The tidal trigger for deploying the flood barriers and gate is 13.5’ (MLLW), as reported by NOAA. The mayor can approve deployment. This happens after a recommendation from the City’s Office of Emergency Management. Then, the flood barrier posts will be set up, and the deployment team will add panels as needed. The height of the flood infrastructure will extend up to 3 feet above grade.
The Planning Department and the Office of Climate Resilience will manage the project. Temporary construction that supports the deployable infrastructure is set for March to August 2026. Contact benjamin.matusow@boston.gov or riley.moran@boston.gov for more information.
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