Massachusetts Proposes Bold Coastal Resilience Plan Amid Rising Sea Threats

As climate change accelerates, Massachusetts is taking proactive steps to protect its vulnerable coastal communities. A newly released draft plan by the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs outlines a comprehensive 50-year strategy to address rising sea levels, intensifying storms, and increased flooding risks across the state.

Key elements of the plan include a proposed voluntary buyout program to support homeowners in high-risk flood zones, a pilot study to assess evacuation routes, and increased funding opportunities for regional resilience projects. The state also aims to strengthen infrastructure, modernize shoreline defenses, and promote climate-ready housing by funding upgrades like basement flood-proofing and sewer backflow prevention.

Cape Cod, the Islands, and parts of the North and South Shore are identified as areas particularly at risk. The plan also proposes regulatory changes, including faster permitting for resilience projects and mandatory flood risk disclosures for real estate transactions.

With over 3 million Massachusetts residents living in coastal areas, this forward-looking strategy highlights the urgent need for collaboration and innovation as the state works to adapt to a rapidly changing climate.

Public comments on the draft are open through June 12, with the final plan expected later this year.

Click HERE to view downloadable document.