Boston and Revere collaborate on Bennington Street flood resilience project

A major coastal resilience project is underway in East Boston and Revere, aimed at combating severe flooding and protecting vital infrastructure. The initiative, which involves a partnership between the cities of Boston and Revere, is supported by a municipal vulnerability preparedness grant from the state, highlighting the urgent need for action in this flood-prone area.

The project focuses on Bennington Street and Fredericks Park, both of which are significantly impacted by flooding from the nearby Belle Isle Marsh, one of Boston's last remaining salt marshes. The marsh is not only a critical environmental area but also a recreational space for the community. Flooding has become a pressing issue, with recent storms demonstrating the vulnerability of the area, as water inundated roadways and disrupted access to essential services.

Key stakeholders, including the Massachusetts Department of Transportation and the Department of Conservation and Recreation, are collaborating on this complex project. The plan includes a "road diet" for Bennington Street, which will narrow the road to improve pedestrian safety and reduce traffic speeds. Additionally, the project aims to elevate the roadway to mitigate flooding risks and enhance stormwater management.

Fredericks Park, currently underutilized due to frequent flooding, will also see significant improvements. The proposal includes elevating the park to ensure it remains accessible for youth sports and community activities, addressing the growing demand for open space in Revere.

The project is in its design phase, with an alternatives analysis completed to identify the most effective strategies for resilience. As the project progresses, it aims to not only protect against flooding but also enhance the ecological health of the marsh and improve recreational amenities for the community.

With the anticipated completion of the schematic design phase in June, the project is set to move forward, promising a safer and more resilient future for East Boston and Revere.