In a recent government meeting, a community planner presented her master's thesis on the adaptation of historic districts to sea level rise, focusing on the Lincolnville Neighborhood National Register District in St. Augustine, Florida. The presentation highlighted the challenges faced by this historic area, which is particularly vulnerable to flooding due to its location between two bodies of water.

The planner, who previously served on Gainesville's Historic Architectural Review Board, emphasized the importance of balancing preservation with flood mitigation regulations. Her research involved extensive document reviews, GIS mapping, and field visits to assess how structures in Lincolnville have adapted to rising sea levels over the past several years.

Key findings revealed that approximately 30 buildings in Lincolnville are projected to be inundated by a three-foot sea level rise by 2100, based on NOAA predictions. The majority of the district falls within FEMA's special flood hazard area, necessitating that new constructions be elevated significantly above base flood elevations. The planner noted that while some homeowners are opting to elevate their structures, this adaptation can disrupt the historical integrity of the district, particularly when new constructions cluster together.

The presentation also addressed the economic pressures leading to the demolition of historic properties, with a notable increase in requests for demolition permits linked to the creation of short-term rentals. The planner reported that 16% of Lincolnville's housing supply is currently designated for short-term rentals, further complicating preservation efforts.

Concerns were raised about the potential delisting of the historic district, as the percentage of historic structures has decreased from 81% to 67% due to demolitions and alterations. The planner urged the Historic Architectural Review Board (HARB) to consider these trends seriously, as the loss of historic buildings not only impacts the character of Lincolnville but also poses a risk to its designation as a historic district.

The meeting concluded with a call for proactive measures to ensure that adaptations to climate change do not compromise the historical significance of Lincolnville, emphasizing the need for a collaborative approach to urban planning that respects both heritage and resilience.