Sustainable Planning in Coastal Communities

Project Need:

The geography of and assets within the Montauk study area make it vulnerable to the impacts of sea level rise, erosion, storm surge and flooding due to its low topography, low depth to groundwater, and a retreating ocean shoreline. In addition to this area being vulnerable, it contains key assets of the broader community, including resorts, businesses, the fire department, police department, and a community center that serves as an emergency shelter, among other assets. The area is a source of goods and services, job opportunities, tourism, emergency services, recreational activity and economic activity. 

The study area’s coastal risks combined with its critical importance to residents, visitors, business owners and the broader township, call for long-term proactive solutions to evaluate and enhance the relationship between our built environment, natural resources and community to sustain a year-round resilient Montauk.