Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

A FUTURE WITH WATER: SEA LEVEL RISE IN RHODE ISLAND THE UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA SCHOOL OF DESIGN

TABLE OF CONTENTS PARTNERSHIPS 06 THE BASICS 10 LOCAL ANALYSIS 22 COMMUNITY 40 ECONOMICS 48 HOUSING 60 INFRASTRUCTURE 70 HABITAT 82 CATEGORIES OF ACTION

94

SITES OF ADAPTATION 122 INFRASTRUCTURE 126 WATER STREET 152 JAMIEL PARK 170 UPLAND DEVELOPMENT 204 CONCLUDING REMARKS 220 PROJECT TEAM 222 CITATIONS

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2 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

3

THE PROJECT Rhode Island’s relationship with water has long been a defining portion of the state’s identity.

However, the towns, industries, and communities that were formed around the advantages of being close to the Narragansett Bay are now threatened by the results of climate change including sea level rise, storm surge, and coastal erosion. The state’s progressive policies on sea level rise and climate change put it at the forefront of research, data analysis, and policies that address climate change. This plan aims to add to this body of knowledge and action by assessing the impacts of coastal risks in the towns of Warren and Barrington Rhode Island and providing adaptation strategies that promote equity while preserving the economic vitality and rich cultural heritage of these coastal towns.

4 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

5

PARTNERSHIPS

6 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

This project could not have been possible without our various partnerships. A series of critical individuals and organizations helped to initiate this idea, as well as guide us through it.

A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

7

KEY INDIVIDUALS

KEY INDIVIDUALS Key Organizations Two Key Organizations that are unique to Rhode Island and are heavily involved in identifying strategies to address future coastal risk are the Coastal Resources Management Council which acts as a coastal regulatory entity in the state of Rhode Island, and the Coastal Resource Center based out of the Graduate School of Oceanography at the University of Rhode Island (URI).

Teresa Crean

Bob Rulli

Teresa Crean, the Community Planner and Coastal Management Extension Specialist at the Coastal Resource Center.1

Bob Rulli, the Planner for the town of Warren.3

The Coastal Resources Management Council (CRMC) is comprised of a board of appointed representatives that have jurisdiction over and are responsible for issuing permits for the first 200’ of coastline for the entire state of Rhode Island.5 The Coastal Resource Center at URI works with coastal communities in Rhode Island and around the world to help them understand what coastal management issues they face and craft comprehensive solutions that benefit all.6 They provide professional services to communities that emphasize outreach and public stakeholder involvement to help communities become stewards of their coastal ecosystems and thrive for generations to come with a strong relation with the water.

Amber Neville

Phil Hervey

Amber Neville, the Digital Media and Communications Specialist with the Coastal Institute.2

Phil Hervey, the Planner for the town of Barrington. 4

8 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

Coastal Resources Management Council 1971: Established Performs regulatory functions within 200 feet of the coast

Coastal Resources Center 1971: Established as advisor to CRMC Professional services include policy development, planning, technical assistance, outreach

Implements coastal management plans and issues plans and permits Developed Rhode Island Shoreline Change Special Area Management Plan (BeachSAMP)

Additionally, the non-profit organization, Save the Bay, serves as a critical watchdog group, that monitors proposals or activities that may degrade the environmental quality of the Narragansett Bay.

A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

9

THE BASICS

10 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

Before honing in on our project, we need to start with a discussion of the broader forces in play. Climate change and its effects are what’s washing up on Rhode Island’s shores.

A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

11

CLIMATE CHANGE

SEA LEVEL RISE

Global Warming

% OF POPULATION LIVING IN COASTAL COUNTIES

Currently, the earth is experiencing a period of warming directly linked to human activity and the output of greenhouse gases. Historically if we look back roughly sixty–five years ago, the earth was much cooler than it is today.7

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There are two major causes of global sea level rise, thermal expansion which is caused by the warming of the ocean, and increased melting of land-based ice, such as glaciers and ice sheets.

The oceans are warming because they are absorbing more than 90 percent of the increased atmospheric heat associated with emissions from human activity.9

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Greenhouse gasses trap solar energy within the earth’s atmosphere, which both warms our lower atmosphere and the earth’s surface simultaneously. This greenhouse effect warms climates around the world.8

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Population distribution across the United States12

A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

13

SEA LEVEL RISE

SEA LEVEL RISE

King TIde

Storm Surge

A King tide is essentially an exceptionally high, high tide. This higher high tide often results in localized sunny day flooding and is occurring more frequently as sea levels are rising. 13

Is an abnormal rise of water generated by a storm, over and above the predicted astronomical tides. Storm surge is produced by water being pushed toward the shore by the force of the winds moving cyclonically around the storm.17

Nuisance Flooding

Future Implications

Nuisance flooding, also known as high tide flooding, is an effect of rising sea levels where communities experience inconveniences like road closures and overloaded water drainage infrastructure during regular tidal cycles (without storm events). This is common in the many lowlying coastal Rhode Island towns whose height above average sea level is diminishing as sea levels rise.14

Higher sea levels mean that deadly and destructive storm surges now push farther inland than they once did, which also means more frequent flooding events. Flooding events are estimated to be from 300 percent to 900 percent more frequent within U.S. coastal communities than it was 50 years ago.18 King Tide event, Barrington RI.16

King Tide event, Barrington RI.15

14 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

Storm Surge Diagram

A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

15

RHODE ISLAND

HISTORIC SLR

Context

Historic SLR

The state of Rhode Island, located in New England, is in an area that is extremely vulnerable to sea level rise.19

Historically and currently sea levels are rising faster on the Rhode Island coast than average sea levels are rising globally. This is in large part due to land subsidence and the decrease in velocity of the gulf stream.21

Most Rhode Island residents are faced with issues of sea level rise as the state has over 400 miles of coastline. This small state has the largest proportion of coastline to land area in the US. 20

RHODE ISLAND

HISTORIC SLR

1,212

SQ MILES OF LAND ANNUAL RATE of SLR

400+

MILES OF SHORELINE

1,054,491

RECENT ACCELERATION

POPULATION (2016)

420 Miles of coast line distinguishes the Ocean State.

16 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

10 in

GLOBAL AVERAGE

>

(1930 to 2017)

0.11 in/yr

(1901 to 2010)

>

(1930 to 2017)

0.16 in/yr (1986 to 2017)

7.48 in 0.07 in/yr (1901 to 2010)

>

0.12 in/yr (1993 to 2017)

Historic sea level rise averages for Rhode Island and the globe.22

A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

17

GLOBAL SLR

PRECIPITATION

Global SLR The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, through years of sophisticated data collection and measurements, have confirmed that global sea levels are rising. The predictions, as they currently stand, estimate that the sea will rise by 1.6’ by 2030, 3.25’ by 2050, 6.7’ by 2080 and 9.6’ by the end of the century. The rates in red were the predictions as of 2012. As you can see predicted rates of increase have changed significantly over the last 5 years.23

9.60ft by 2100

6.60ft by 2100

One of the many outcomes of rising global temperatures is the increased frequency of large precipitation events including hurricanes and other tropical storms. Hurricane Carol, Rhode island’s most destructive storm on record, leveled much of the state’s coast in 1958.24 Though an event of that magnitude has not occurred since, the state has seen a steady increase in annual precipitation and storm events since.

6.69ft by 2080

4.39ft by 2080

3.25ft by 2050 1.90ft by 2050 0.75ft by 2030

1.67ft by 2030 2012 2017

Sea level rise projections, 2012 & 2017. 25

18 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

Large storms and precipitation events since 1950.26

A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

19

PLANNING HISTORY

PLANNING HISTORY

State and Regional Planning Efforts

Resilient Rhody

In the wake of Hurricane Carol, regional planning for the state remained relatively stagnant until a sharp increase in environmental planning was triggered by a massive flooding event in 2010.

Since then, there has been a series of state-wide plans and localized initiatives that have focused on addressing coastal resilience and flood mitigation.

Resilient Rhody is Rhode Island’s first comprehensive climate preparedness strategy that directly addresses the impacts of climate change in Rhode Island. It was created as a part of the state’s will to remain committed to the Paris Climate Agreement. It was completed in 2018 by Chief Resilience Officer Shaun O’Rourke, who was appointed by Governor Gina Raimondo the previous year.27

Beach SAMP Beach SAMP (Special Area Management Plan),

by CRMC, is another important document that directly addresses the impact of storm surge, flooding, sea level rise and erosion. The plan uniquely focuses on tools and technical assistance to help municipalities, and uses a permit system with a 5-step review process to help them determine the hazards that affect them. It works along with the CRMC’s landmark planning tool, STORMTOOLS, which visually expresses risk through a state-of-the-art mapping system. 28

20 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

Resilient Rhody, 2018.29

Beach SAMP, 2018.30

A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

21

LOCAL ANALYSIS

22 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

Warren and Barrington are two small communities in the East Bay area of Rhode Island. We’ll tell you about why we’re looking here, and why we’re looking now.

A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

23

CONTEXT

CONTEXT TITLE

Site Location Warren & Barrington are located in the north eastern corner of the Narragansett Bay, less than 10 miles outside of Providence, and on the border with Massachusetts. Notably, each are surrounded by water on three out of four sides.

Warren’s average elevation is only 7’ above sea level, while Barrington’s is even lower at an average elevation of 6.5’.

24 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

25

A HISTORY WITH WATER

A HISTORY WITH WATER

A Sea-Centric Life

A Local Tradition

Warren and Barrington are some of the oldest townships in Rhode Island and the United States dating back to pilgrim settlements in the 1600s.31 The region was known for its ship building, farming, and shell fishing industries.

The Blount family businesses of harvesting oysters and ice packing thrived in West Barrington until the 1938 Hurricane destroyed most of the oyster beds in the Narragansett Bay making oysters more difficult to farm.

The company revitalized itself by harvesting

The waters of the Narragansett Bay and its tributaries have provided both Barrington and Warren throughout their history with clams, quahogs, scallops, and oysters which have been sold in regional markets from Providence to Boston. In fact, shellfishing remained one of the regions few industries until the twentieth century.

C.E. Peters Shipsmith and Whalecraft33

The Narragansett Bay has long supported the regional marine economy for decades.32

26 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

Blount Market and Kitchen are all based out of Warren. The Blount family businesses are an excellent example of adaptive business practices that have survived changes in these coastal towns for generations.

quahogs, mussels, and small clams.34 The Blount family also opened a boating business in 1966, Blount Boats, which is still present in the community today as Blount’s Shipping Adventures.35 Blount’s Shipping Adventures, Blount Fine Foods, Blount Clam Shack, and

In the 1950’s Blount Seafood was the nations largest food processor.36

Blount Fine Foods, located on Water St.37

A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

27

A HISTORY WITH WATER

A HISTORY WITH WATER

Local Economy Hurt by Storms The New England Hurricane of 1938 was a devastating hit to the Barrington and Warren communities, destroying hundreds of homes and businesses, and taking many lives. This was followed by Hurricane Carol in 1954, which was one of the worst storms to ever hit New England.

New Uses Aided in Recovery Hurricane Carol created heavy amounts of flooding with winds reaching up to 125 mph and downtown Providence under 12 feet of water.38 The combined wave impacts of these storms seriously damaged the local oyster beds from these two hurricanes, and the industry

was directly impacted. The habitat disruption from storms, compounded by manufacturing pollution, made it difficult for the oyster industry to bounce back.

The economic vitality of the towns grew back, however, as businesses shifted and industrial factories like the American Tourister Factory, Cranston Worsted Mills, and The Laceworks Factory thrived.41 These buildings have transitioned in recent years to become apartment complexes and senior housing.

Cranston Worsted Mills, 2016.42

Hurricane Carol damages Narragansett Bay. 39

28 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

Storm surge from the 1938 Hurricane, Providence, RI40

Cranston Worsted Mills, 1902.43

A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

29

CURRENT CONDITIONS

This map illustrates the impact of sea level rise on the landmass of Warren and Barrington as it currently stands. As can be seen, there is no impact at the current level, or height of the sea as it is today. This map will provide our analysis with a base, in order to fully understand the future impact of sea level rise.

30 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

STORM SURGE TITLE

This map indicates the extent of inundation if a tropical storm or hurricane were hit the Rhode Island coast tomorrow. When an event of the magnitude will occur, 36.7% of the land area in Warren will be inundated, and 58.7% of the land area in Barrington will be inundated.

A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

31

1 FOOT SLR

At 1 foot of sea level rise, 3.8% of the land area in Warren will be inundated and 5.6% of the land area in Barrington will be inundated.

32 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

3 FEET SLR TITLE

At 3 feet of sea level rise, 8.5% of land area in Warren, and 9.7% of land area in Barrington will be permanently inundated.

A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

33

5 FEET SLR

With 5 feet of sea level rise the loss of land among the two communities becomes more dramatic. In Warren, 13.2% of the land area becomes permanently inundated. In Barrington, 19.5% of the total land area becomes permanently inundated.

34 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

7 FEET SLR TITLE

Finally, at 7 feet of sea level rise, 17.3% of land area is inundated in Warren and 26.2% of the land area in Barrington. The loss of total land area in each town will dramatically change the landscape for residents and settlement patterns.

Additionally, the natural environment will be dramatically altered as most coastal wetlands will be inundated.

A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

35

SITE SELECTION

SITE SELECTION TITLE

Site Selection Warren and Barrington were chosen as sites because these towns represent two different groups within the Rhode Island populationBarrington is a wealthier, residential community and Warren is working-class community with ties to its industrial and marine heritage and historic downtown area. Both towns are already experiencing the impacts of climate change and sea level rise. Today, inundation from a 100-year storm, like the one experienced during the 1938 Hurricane, covers almost 43% of Barrington and 30% of Warren.

Together, as these impacts increase with rising sea levels, Barrington and Warren act as an example for adaptation that can be applied to any of the coastal communities in Rhode Island.

where Barrington and Warren are located. The hope is that practices explored for this mixeduse zone can be applied to other similar coastal towns.

Demonstration Sites The towns of Warren and Barrington are also together one of the sites chosen by the URI Coastal Institute as a Demonstration Site Project to illustrate best management practices for enhancing ecosystem and community resilience to the impacts of climate change. The purpose of this initiative is to provide governments, planners, businesses, and homeowners at the state, city, and town level, with a suite of options for adapting to storm surge, flooding, sea-level rise, and other climate change factors.44 There are three demonstration site projects: one for Natural Areas, one for Urban Ports and one for Mixed-Use along the Warren/Palmer Rivers

36 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

Sunny day flooding in Barrington, RI45

Sunny day flooding in Warren, RI46

Census Tract 305

URI Climate Response Coastal Institute Demonstration Sites47

The population of census tract 305 in Warren is particularly vulnerable. The median household income here is about half that of the rest of Warren, and the disparity is even greater compared to Barrington. Nearly 17% of the

families in this census tract live below the poverty level, compared to about 7% elsewhere in Warren.

As climate change takes its toll on Warren, this

population may find it more challenging to adapt and may not have to resources to do so. That resiliency disparity played heavily in shaping our analysis of Warren.

A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

37

ICONS COMMUNITY

ECONOMY

HOUSING

INFRASTRUCTURE

HABITAT

After visiting both towns and digging into our research, we came up with 5 lenses to evaluate the impacts of climate change. These are community, economy, housing, infrastructure, and habitat.

You’ll see these icons throughout the local analysis section highlighting which aspect we’re discussing as they become impacted by sea level rise

38 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

39

COMMUNITY

40 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

While divided only by a bridge, the towns of Barrington and Warren can at times feel like worlds apart. These neighbors have two different cultures, demographics, and communities.

A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

41

DEMOGRAPHICS

LOCAL BUSINESS

Community Characteristics Warren has a population of 10,446 residents. The racial composition of the area is predominantly white (96%) with the second largest racial group being Asian (<1%). Of the total population, only 2% identify as Hispanic. The majority of Warren (93%) is made of single family homes with 58% of households being owner occupied and 42% of households being renter occupied. There are 113 (2%) vacant homes in Warren.

Commercial Corridors force, 8,138 are employed (97%) and 284 are unemployed (3%). The highest sectors of employment are Education, Health, and Social services with 34% of the workforce and Professional Services with 14% of the workforce.

The median household income for the study area is around $117,000. In commuting to work, 6,599 (83%) of residents travel by car alone, 360 (5%) carpool, 224 (3%) take public transit, 118 (1%) walk, and 619 (8%) work from home.48

Of the 6.032 residents in the Warren labor force, 5,621 are employed (93%) and 590 are unemployed (7%). The highest sectors of employment are Education, Health, and Social services with 27% of the workforce and Manufacturing with 14% of the workforce. The median household income for the study area is around $52,000. In commuting to work, 4,408 (80%) of residents travel by car alone, 498 (9%) carpool, 158 (3%) take public transit, 216 (4%) walk, and 133 (2%) work from home.

According to the 2016 ACS, Barrington has a population of 16,176 residents. The racial composition of the area is predominantly white (94%) with the second largest racial group being Asian (3%). Of the total population, only 2% identify as Hispanic. The majority of Barrington (93%) is made of single family homes with 88% of households being owner occupied and 12% of households being renter occupied. There are 372 (6%) vacant homes in Barrington.

From our visits to the area, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s apparent that Warren maintains its small New England town feel where the local population is committed to preserving its heritage through the maintenance of its historic district, working waterfront, and community access to the water. Though major industry has left, a robust art and farm-totable restaurant scene has formed, especially around rehabilitated historic sites that now host craftsman workshops, offices, and retail markets.

49

POP: 10,446 1,684 / SQMI

BARRINGTON

Delektaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pharmacy, Downtown Warren50

Vibrant art scene in Warren51

WARREN

POP: 16,176 1,972 / SQMI

Of the 8,422 residents in the Barrington labor Rennovated retail space in Warren52

42 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

43

COMMUNITY ASSETS

COMMUNITY ASSETS

Recreation The cozy downtown area of Warren is complimented by activity along the East Bay Bike Path and at recreational facilities, such as Jamiel Park.

Gathering Spaces In Barrington, marine industry is scattered, although still somewhat present. It lacks a historic downtown area like Warren, but instead Barrington acts as a residential retreat from the city of Providence with single family houses on large lots and plenty of open space. Community gatherings are more common at community centers, churches, and at the many schools.

Entrace to recreational space at Jamiel Park54

East Bay Bike Path53

44 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

Striper Marina in Tyler Point, Barrington57

Barrington Congregational Church, the â&#x20AC;&#x153;White Churchâ&#x20AC;?56

Barrington Town Hall55

A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

45

HOUSEHOLD INCOME

EDUCATION

Median Household Income

Educational Attainment

When we look at economic indicators of both Warren and Barrington, such as median household income and median home value, we start to understand the significant differences between distribution of wealth and economic opportunities in each town.

That trend is reflected in both Barrington and Warren when we take a closer look at the level of attainment for each population. As we can see the level or attainment reached in Barrington far exceeds both that of Warren and the average attainment of the state. While education cannot be directly linked with ability and aptitude it does often correlate with economic opportunity and the emphasis in homes on education starting at a young age. This matters when discussing climate change because education is often the most important outlet for discussing the effects of climate change. We learned from our visit to Rhode Island that many members of these communities thought the best way to reach adults was through kids at school who would continue the discussion at home.

With a median household income of $117,000 and a median home value of $438,000 Barrington has a population that is financially stronger than those who live in Warren, and an even greater difference from the state average.

We want to highlight this distinction between the two communities because it indicates which area has greater resources to overcome the significant costs that are associated with sea level rise adaptation.

Recovering from storms and large precipitation events is easier for those who have more financial flexibility to do so. That is not to diminish the value or the need for residents of Barrington as they face many of the same sea level rise challenges as Warren. However, it is important to make the distinction between those who have the financial privilege to leave or rebuild, and those who do not and how an adaptation approach may need to differ for the two communities.

REGIONAL AND LOCAL ATTAINMENT LEVELS

WARREN RHODE ISLAND

29.3%

27.7%

36.9%

30.3% 18.9%19.4%

$438K

WARREN

$257K

$52K

12.2% 13.1%

10.8%

BARRINGTON

$117K 46 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

BARRINGTON

RI

$247K

$61K

HIGH SCHOOL

BACHELORS

GRAD SCHOOL + A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

47

ECONOMY

48 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

The towns have different commercial forms, from historic waterfront business to suburban-style shopping centers. But the results of sea level rise will still devastate both of their economies.

A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

49

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

Employment Inflow & Outflow

Edu/Health Ed u/Heal th

BARRINGTON

33.9%

Professional

14.2%

Finance/RE

8.1%

Top Employment Sectors Barrington’s top employment sectors are dominated by the professional sector with most employed in education/ healthcare, professional work, and finance.

Edu/Health

WARREN

Keeping in line with much of Warren’s industrial past, one of the major employment sectors for town residents is in manufacturing.

Unemployment rates for both Barrington and Warren indicate that there is a greater need for additional employment opportunities in the area, especially in Warren where the unemployment rate is almost twice as high as Barrington. Since the majority of Warren’s workforce is employed in either manufacturing or recreation related work, we can better funnel our attention to creating more jobs in the area or region that would cater to those individuals and provide more economic opportunity for residents.

27%

Edu/Health

RHODE ISLAND

27.5%

Manufacturing

Recre/Accom

13.6%

11.6%

Retail Trade

Recre/Accom

11.9%

11%

3.4%

UNEMPLOYMENT RATE

Most of the residents of both Barrington and Warren work outside of the two towns- over 75% of Barrington’s population and around 70% of Warren’s population commute out. Both towns essentially act as suburbs to Providence.

That being said, there are around 4,000 jobs in Warren and 3,500 in Barrington, of which almost 2,000 are filled by local residents.

6.6%

7.7%

Employment movements in and out of Barrington and Warren

50 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

51

ECONOMIC ACTIVITY

WATER STREET

Commercial Corridors The main commercial corridors in Warren that host these jobs are Main Street, Water Street, Child Street, and Metacom Avenue.

As home to one of the oldest downtowns in Rhode Island, Main Street and Water Street are on the National Historic District Register.

Water Street remains a working water front, with many marinas and boating businesses scattered throughout, preserving the long history of boating and marine industry. The town takes pride in its historic downtown and working waterfront, which is apparent on its website (DiscoverWarren.com) that advertises Warrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s many small shops and businesses to visitors. Metacom Avenue and Child Street have more auto-oriented businesses and residential businesses.

Farm-to-table restaurants, marine-related businesses, and local shops are the centerpiece of the neighborhood economy. A local foods campaign begun in 2010 led to the creation of Hope & Main, a food startup and incubator space for new restaurants in the town. Discover Warren, Hope & Main, and other community groups have worked to revive the business community. For this tiny New England town, food systems have provided the foundation for an economic revitalization.

In Barrington, the main commercial corridors are along Wampanoag Trail, Maple Avenue, and Bay Spring Avenue, with Marinas at Tyler Point and in Bay Spring. Unlike Warren, Barrington does not have a large historic downtown area. Small businesses are instead scattered throughout residential areas along Maple Avenue and Bay

52 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

Spring, with Wampanoag Trail being the main site for a concentrated retail area. Barrington is less known for its historic areas and better known as a strong school district and desirable area to raise a family.

Main Street, Warren Commercial Corridor58

Local shops in Downtown Warren59

Water St. Commercial Corridor60

A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

53

TITLE CURRENT CONDITIONS

Current conditions of sea level rise as they are today do not impact any of the commercial buildings in Warren or Barrington.

54 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

STORM SURGE

COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS LOST 0

Under storm surge conditions much of the commercial spaces in each town is inundated with water. A total of 83 commercial buildings will be effected by temporary inundation.

COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS AT RISK 83

A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

55

1 FOOT SLR

With 1 foot of sea level rise, non of the major commercial centers or buildings are effected by inundation.

56 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

3 FEET SLR

COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS LOST 0

At 3 feet of sea level rise a handful of buildings are effected by the rising waters. Most of the impact occurs in Warren.

COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS LOST 5

A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

57

5 FEET SLR

With 5 feet of sea level rise, the two towns see a dramatic increase in the number of commercial structures that are impacted. At this level of inundation 34 buildings are compromised throughout the area.

58 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

7 FEET SLR

COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS LOST 34

Seven feet of sea level rise will result in a substantial impact to both communities. As 60 commerical buildings become permanently inundated, the localized economy will begin to suffer.

COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS LOST 60

A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

59

HOUSING

60 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

Both Barrington and Warren are at risk of losing a significant amount of housing due to sea level rise. The impacts, however, vary greatly between the two towns with some losing second homes, and some

A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

61

HOUSING

TOURISTER MILL

Current Housing Condition There are just over 5,000 occupied homes in Warren and just under 4,800 homes in Barrington.61 Some of these differences include total lot sizes and cost per square foot. 62 The housing stock in Barrington and especially in Warren is aging with minimal new development on the horizon. Since 2000, construction of new housing units has remained relatively stagnant, with the exception of the renovation of the former American Tourister factory into a mixed-use apartment complex along the Warren waterfront. The Tourister Mill Apartments will have 400 units when completed, a valuable addition to the housing stock.

However, this site sits along the edge of the Palmer River, an area that has been identified as vulnerable to future flooding. The price point of these units also makes them inaccessible to many.63

Looking to the future and understanding that many families and individuals may be displaced by flooding events and eventual sea level rise, the community must consider increasing housing elsewhere in the area. Sixty percent of households in Warren consist of families, while the remaining forty percent are â&#x20AC;&#x153;non-familyâ&#x20AC;? households. Appropriate housing for both families and individuals will need to be provided.

Warren Housing66

Historic Housing Both Warren and Barrington have Preservation Societies with plaque programs that recognize preserved, historic buildings over one-hundred years old that have retained their architectural integrity.64 As these communities move forward, historic homes will need to be considered as many lay within the current inundation zones. The limitations and expense in retrofitting or moving these homes to a higher ground will become a difficult part of the eventual retreat for both commuities.

Water Street, Warren Housing65

62 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

Converted former American Tourister Factory Building, 2018.67

A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

63

CURRENT CONDITIONS

Under the current conditions, there are no single family or multi-family homes in the town of Warren or Barrington that are impacted by sea level rise.

64 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

STORM SURGE

SINGLE FAMILY LOST 0 MULTI FAMILY LOST 0

In a storm surge scenario like that of Hurricane Sandy, a massive portion of the housing stock in each of these communities would be impacted.

With over 3,000 single family homes and nearly 600 multi-family homes temporarily inundated the potential for impact and devastation is enormous.

SINGLE FAMILY RISK 3134 MULTI FAMILY RISK 575 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

65

1 FOOT SLR

One foot of sea level rise is clearly a shoreline issue, but does not impact the housing stock in either town.

3 FEET SLR

SINGLE FAMILY LOST 0 MULTI FAMILY LOST 0

66 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

At 3 feet of sea level rise the rising waters start to take effect and temporarily inundate 25 single family homes, and 2 multi-family homes.

SINGLE FAMILY LOST 25 MULTI FAMILY LOST 2 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

67

5 FEET SLR

Five feet of sea level rise bring a dramatic increase to the number of homes impacted by rising waters. 169 single family homes are impacted at this rise, as well as 92 multi-family homes. This level of sea level rise posses challenges to hundreds of people in these small communities.

68 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

7 FEET SLR

SINGLE FAMILY LOST 169 MULTI FAMILY LOST 92

At 7 feet of sea level rise well over a thousand residents will be effected by temporary inundation. At a loss of 459 single family homes and 168 multi-family homes, Warren and Barrington will find many of its residents seeking temporary shelter or alternative housing.

SINGLE FAMILY LOST 459 MULTI FAMILY LOST 168 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

69

INFRASTRUCTURE

70 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

The East Bay community is woven together by both its state roads and public infrastructure. The effects on these resources will be felt throughout the region.

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71

TRANSPORTATION

INFRASTRUCTURE

Connection Vulnerability Both of these communities are heavily reliant on cars for transportation with around 90% of workers commuting by car to jobs.68 Route 114 (also known as County Road and Wampanoag Trail) connects Warren and Barrington over

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Critical Infrastructure Vulnerability two bridges- the Warren Bridge and the Barrington Bridge. It also connects both towns to Providence in the North and Bristol and Newport in the South. For those who do not travel by car, there are limited other options.

There is one bus, route 60, that travels along the East Bay and connects Providence all the way down to Newport. There is also the East Bay Bike Path, a newly built path that runs 15 miles from Providence to Bristol.

In addition to transportation, there is other critical infrastructure in the neighborhood that is highly susceptible to flood events. The wastewater treatment facility on Water Street in Warren is currently undergoing renovations to

enable it to withstand up to 5 feet of sea level rise. While this will reinforce the plant, pump stations around the area are also vulnerable to SLR and flooding due to their location in low lying areas. There is a National Grid substation

located in Warren, just northwest of Jamiel Park along Belcher Cove, that will be affected at 2 ft of sea level rise and is totally inundated by 5ft.

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73

INFRASTRUCTURE

Vulnerable Connections, Barrington Bridge69

74 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

INFRASTRUCTURE

Vulnerable Infrastructure, Wastewater Treatment Plant, Warren RI70

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75

CURRENT CONDITIONS

As current conditions stand, no critical infrastructure, major or minor roads, or emergency routes are inundated.

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STORM SURGE

ROADS INUNDATED : 0 PUMPS LOST : 0 INFRASTRUCTURE : 0

Storm surge has a dramatic effect on the critical infrastructure in both Warren and Barrington.

An event of this kind would overwhelm all major mechanical systems and flood all major evacuation routes. This poses an immediate threat to the population as their main route of escape would be completely inaccessible in this scenario.

ROADS INUNDATED : ALL STATE ROADS ALL EVACUATION ROUTES PUMPS LOST : ALL

INFRASTRUCTURE : PUBLIC RESERVOIR ALL BRIDGES DAMS WASTEWATER PLANT A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

77

1 FOOT SLR

At 1 foot of sea level rise, critical infrastructure such as pump stations become inundated and the public reservoir becomes compromised.

With 15% of the areas pump stations decommissioned, we begin to see the negative effects of sea level rise on these two communities.

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3 FEET SLR

ROADS INUNDATED : 0 PUMPS LOST : 3

INFRASTRUCTURE : PUBLIC RESERVOIR

Three feet of sea level rise results in the inundation of major roads such as Market Street, Water Street, Wampanoag Trail, and Main Street. 42% of the areas pump stations are compromised increasing the overall vulnerability of each community.

ROADS INUNDATED : MARKET ST WATER ST COUNTY RD MAIN ST

PUMPS LOST : 8 INFRASTRUCTURE : PUBLIC RESERVOIR

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79

5 FEET SLR

A five foot rise brings dramatic change to the towns of Warren and Barrington, impacting everyday life. At this point, 68% of all pump stations are inundated in the area, and all bridges have become compromised.

Additionally, Child Street joins the list of major roads that are impacted by the rising waters.

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7 FEET SLR

ROADS INUNDATED : MARKET ST WATER ST COUNTY RD MAIN ST CHILD ST

PUMPS LOST : 13 INFRASTRUCTURE : PUBLIC RESERVOIR ALL BRIDGES

At 7 feet of sea level rise, critical infrastructure including the public reservoir, all bridges, dams and the wastewater treatment plant have all become compromised and inundated. 80% of the areas pump stations have also been completely inundated. This amount of loss would dramatically change the lives of the residents in each of these towns.

ROADS INUNDATED : MARKET ST WATER ST COUNTY RD MAIN ST CHILD ST

PUMPS LOST : 15 INFRASTRUCTURE : PUBLIC RESERVOIR ALL BRIDGES DAMS WASTEWATER PLANT A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

81

HABITAT

82 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

The rich environment around Barrington and Warren is both a part of the sea, and at risk because of it. The changing habitat will threaten key local species, as well as the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s marine-based economy.

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83

HABITAT

HABITAT TITLE

Local Ecology Rhode Island as a whole is suffering from a change in the distribution, and even ecology, of its natural habitats. Sea level rise and storms have led to the erosion of natural buffers, causing land to be more susceptible and vulnerable. Additionally, it is inundating wetlands, which are either lost, or forced to migrate. Often this migration shifts inland, threatening urbanized areas. Meanwhile, changes in temperature and climate are causing further threats, as spring is arriving sooner,

Retreating marshland due to salt water intrusion72

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with plants flowering a week earlier than a century ago. The climate has been changing the distribution of local species, causing in some cases a diversification, but not without loss- native species such as shellfish are being threatened. Shellfish, cod, and other critical species will not just affect local ecology, but also economy, as they migrate north to cooler waters.

Additionally, migratory birds are being affected, with an average 3 day difference in migration periods over the last 45 years, causing disruptive

cycles in balancing species. Climate change and its heat effects will also cause public health concerns, as vector illnesses are predicted to increase. Finally, the natural beauty of the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s habitats is threatened with the loss of wetlands.71

Invasive Species, such as Phragmites, are changing the natural landscape73

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85

HABITAT Warren’s wetlands are especially vulnerable. Areas around the bridges, near Jamiel Park and Belcher Cove, the Kickemuit River, and along the Warren River are most at risk. One such example, Little Island in the Warren River, has lost approximately 10 feet of its size in recent years due to erosion and rising waters.74 The Warren Public Reservoir, a public source of water connected to the Kickemuit River, may be at risk for destruction and migration, as salinity intrudes into the area.75 In the east, the expansive Touisset Marsh Wildlife Refuge may become submerged. In this area, and in the northeast of the city, the osprey, Northern Diamond Back Terrapin, and Endangered Saltmarsh Sparrow are all critically vulnerable. In addition to ecological changes, the migration of shellfish and other fished species may have effects on the local economy.76 Several players are involved in protecting Warren at various levels. The state has protected nine sites since 1985, including the East Bay Bike Path with a fee title, five sites through Agricultural Development Rights, and three sites through Conservation Easements. The vulnerable Jamiel Park, and land in the upper section of the Reservoir, are actually protected through RIDEM via National Park Service funds. Locally, Warren has been active in self-preservation. Beginning in 1920, the town protected Town Beach as a resource. Since then, the town itself has conserved ten sites, while the Warren Land Conservation Trust has preserved another ten, including selections of the Palmer River marshland, and Kickemuit Rivers. Other players include the Audobon Society of Rhode Island and the Bristol County Water Authority.77 Today, the city’s Hazard Mitigation Plan prioritizes the protection of its wetland through further acquisition.78

Public Reservoir79

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HABITAT Barrington shares many of Warren’s localized vulnerabilities. Unique to Barrington, however, are the Barrington River, and the Hundred Acre Cove that stems off of it; Allan’s Cove, in the Bay Spring Neighborhood; Brickyard Pond, a low point within the city, and several vulnerable points, such as Tyler and Rumstick Point. More of Barrington is at risk, however, as more of its inland habitat areas, such as that around Brickyard Pond and New Meadow Neck, are vulnerable.

Barrington too, has many organizations involved in its habitat protection.

The state protects Haines Park, Rumstick Point, and many areas around Hundred Acre Cove, including some open to fishing and hunting. The Town of Barrington protects areas along the Barrington River near Wampanoag Trail, much of the land in New Meadow Neck, land around Prince and Brickyard Ponds, among others. Barrington Land Conservancy Trust also has taken a strong role in conservation, helping to protect lands facing the Bay, along the Palmer river, and throughout town. Other efforts include the Audobon Society of Rhode Island, and the Bristol County Water Authority, just like in neighboring Warren.80

Belcher’s Cove, Jamiel Park can be seen in the background81

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87

CURRENT CONDITIONS

Under current conditions, no natural habitats or wetlands are under threat.

88 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

STORM SURGE

HABITATS INUNDATED : 0

Storm Surge produces a dire scenario for natural habitats and wetlands throughout the Narragansett Bay. As can be seen from this map, the majority of inland natural habitats become inundated and existing wetlands become submerged. The inundation is so extreme that it severs connections between land masses and creates islands.

HABITATS AT RISK: INLAND HABITATS INUNDATED ISLANDS APPEAR

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89

1 FOOT SLR

At 1 foot of sea level rise, Jacobs Point, Little Island and the Hundred Acre Cove becomes inundated.

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3 FEET SLR

HABITATS INUNDATED: JACOBS POINT LITTLE ISLAND HUNDRED ACRE COVE

With 3 feet of sea level rise Jamiel Park and Prince Pond also become permanently inundated. The loss of a critical recreation space like Jamiel Park will be a major hit to the Warren community.

HABITATS INUNDATED: JACOBS POINT LITTLE ISLAND HUNDRED ACRE COVE JAMIEL PARK PRINCE POND A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

91

5 FEET SLR

At 5 feet of sea level rise, both communities experience the loss of major wetland areas.

Additionally, Brickyard Pond and Town Beach become permanently inundated.

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7 FEET SLR

HABITATS INUNDATED: JACOBS POINT LITTLE ISLAND HUNDRED ACRE COVE JAMIEL PARK

PRINCE POND WETLANDS BRICKYARD POND TOWN BEACH

7 feet of sea level rise results in the complete inundation of all coastal wetlands as well as inland ponds. With the loss of key habitats such as the coastal wetlands, the natural ecology of the Narragansett Bay will experience dramatic change.

HABITATS INUNDATED: ALL COASTAL WETLANDS ALL INLAND PONDS

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93

CATEGORIES OF ACTION

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95

EMBRACE THE INEVITABILITY OF SEA LEVEL RISE AND BECOME LEADERS IN ADAPTIVE EXCELLENCE

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Instead of resisting the rising sea, Barrington and Warren must evolve to live with water â&#x20AC;&#x201C; to give room to the rising sea and to inhabit a landscape of wetness. Our vision for these communities is to embrace the inevitability of sea level rise and to become leaders in adaptive excellence.

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97

CATEGORIES OF ACTION Our plan for adapting to sea level rise is framed as three simultaneous categories of action.

These sets of actions are not phased in time, but rather by increment of SLR. For example, when planning for 5ft of SLR, the reinforce strategies would apply to the areas temporarily flooded by storm surge; retreat strategies would apply to the areas projected to be totally inundated by 5ft SLR; and restore strategies would apply to the areas already inundated by earlier increments of SLR. Each strategy engages one or multiple evaluation lenses. Icons at the bottom of each page will indicate which strategy pertains to one or more of these lenses.

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REINFORCE RESILIENCY THROUGH FORTIFICATION

These strategies apply to storm surge areas

RETREAT

RESTORE

WITHDRAWAL AND RELOCATION

REMEDIATION AND PRESERVATION

These strategies apply to areas at each increment of SLR

These strategies apply to the previous increment of SLR

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99

REINFORCE

100 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

The reinforce strategies apply to storm surge areas and rely on building code compliance, targeted fortification, and risk communication. These strategies are an acknowledgement that realistically, an entire town cannot immediately retreat.

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TITLE REINFORCE TITLE BUILDING CODES

REINFORCE TITLE CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE

Homes can be raised above predicted flood plain levels82

Rhode Island building codes require compliance with ASCE-24 Flood Resistant Design and Construction Guidelines. Barrington and Warren have both adopted these guidelines, but older properties should also be retrofitted to meet these current code requirements.

102 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

For the short-term 1-3 ft SLR, we recommend retrofitting the wastewater treatment plant and pumping stations to withstand temporary inundation so that they can remain functional.

When evaluating roads and bridges, the only ones that should be raised are those that are

along emergency routes. Maintenance of frequently inundated, non-emergency roads and bridges should be phased out.

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103

TITLE REINFORCE GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE

REINFORCE ALTERNATIVE POWER & WATER

Community Solar Project83

Green infrastructure should be employed to absorb excess water in storm events. Identify places that could be designed to hold more water, and let water go there freely.

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The concept of microgrids could effectively bring to these areas a more reliable source of water and power if the conventional grid system becomes inaccessible or inefficient. Alternative energy sources include solar, wind, and hydropower, and each could be scaled down and operate autonomously.

Hydropower created at a dam84

Although the current water supply for these communities is inland and safe from SLR, the delivery system of pipes and water mains may not be. Both towns should invest in greywater and blackwater recycling to manage wastewater and provide a new, localized water supply.

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TITLE REINFORCE TITLE MARINE ECONOMY

Oyster harvesting on the Narragansett Bay85

Sea level rise does not have to spell doom for the economic growth of these communities.

Marine commerce, expanding the fishing industry, and possibly agritourism are all ways to activate the waterfront while embracing the rising sea.

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REINFORCE RISK COMMUNICATION

Kayaking, a form of marine tourism86

The CRMCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s coastal geologist Janet Freedman explains STORMTOOLS to members of the public87

The local community has prioritized the challenge of risk communication. Planning for sea level rise can be difficult because it is gradual and somewhat intangible.

Understanding a communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s risk perception is important for facilitating more effective conversations about adaptation.

An important component of the Reinforce Strategy is to ensure that the community knows their risk profile by establishing a well-informed public outreach program. When crafting the risk

communication program, it is critical to make the risk local, focusing on what residents observe in their community, like increases in flooding, storm surge impacts, and erosion.

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107

RETREAT

108 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

The retreat strategies apply to the inundated areas at each increment of SLR. The purpose of these strategies is to phase out and eventually prohibit development and inhabitation in vulnerable areas.

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TITLE RETREAT TITLE

CRMC has jurisdiction over the first 200 ft of the coast, and issues permits for work within the coastal zone of the state. Coastal risk overlay zones would build upon CRMCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s regulatory authority by applying to areas inundated by SLR, even those beyond 200 ft.

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RETREAT TITLE

Within the coastal risk overlay zones, no permanent, non-floodable structures would be permitted and there would be additional open space and landscaping requirements for flood

management. Homeowners within these zones would be eligible for a state-sponsored buyout program.

Upland development overlay zones are complimentary to the recommended coastal risk overlay zones. These zones would apply to areas where further density can be supported to accommodate households who relocate.

These zones are mixed-use and medium density and would include open space design guidelines for stormwater management and green infrastructure. These zones are an opportunity for Warren and Barrington to design more adaptive communities.

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TITLE RETREAT TITLE

RETREAT TITLE

Homes seeking buyout post Hurricane Sandy, Staten Island, NY88

CASE STUDY- Following Hurricane Sandy, Staten Island successfully implemented a buyout program and could serve as a model for Barrington and Warren. Staten Islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s buyout program was managed by the State of New York. Acquisition was available to homeowners in neighborhoods that qualified on the basis

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of flood risk and majority of homeownerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s desire to depart. Participation in the buyout was voluntary, and homeowners were offered incentives for relocating within New York City.

Post-buyout, the land use was restricted to open space to preserve ecologically sensitive natural environments.

A state-sponsored buyout program would be an opportunity for people who live in vulnerable areas to proactively move to a safer location. We recommend that this program only be available for homes and vacant land, not for commercial property, and once the land is vacated, it would be restricted to open space use.

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RESTORE

114 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

The restore strategies apply to the preceding increment of SLR, where the land has become inundated and must be remediated and preserved as open space.

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TITLE RESTORE BROWNFIELD REMEDIATION

RESTORE CONSERVATION DISTRICTS

Jamiel Park Brownfield, a former industrial landfill89

The first step in restoration is to clean up the brownfields to prevent pollution and to safely rehabilitate those sites. The EPA has programs that provide grants and loans for assessments, cleanups, planning, and job training for brownfield remediation.

116 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

Preservation of natural wetland habitats90

Outside of the EPA, another funding source is the environmental surety bond which covers construction projects and hazardous materials.

The land conserved by the coastal risk overlay zone should be added to Warrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Conservation Trust. This land would be designated for habitat and to serve as a protective buffer.

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TITLE RESTORE SUPPORT HABITAT

RESTORE NATURE-BASED PROTECTION

Warren Land Trust volunteers monitoring a Purple Martin array habitat station91

In Barrington and Warren, there are conserved lands at the state and local level, and there are monitoring efforts targeting habitat loss and key species. Any plans regarding SLR adaptation should support these ongoing efforts.

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Belcher Cove, Rhode Island92

A benefit of habitat restoration is that the rehabilitated wetlands and salt marshes could serve as large-scale, nature-based protective barriers. This is a long-term investment that would ultimately reduce the effects of SLR and limit areas flooded by storm surge.

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TITLE RESTORE EMBRACE THE WATER

RESTORE EMBRACE THE WATER

Ecotourists enjoying restored wetland habitats93

The final restore strategy is to reinvigorate the deep cultural ties to the water that these communities have through environmental stewardship and a marine-based economy.

Rhode Island is the Ocean State, and as we have described, the connection to the sea is what has drawn people to this region for centuries.

120 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

Thriving marine economy in Alaskan Harbor94

A marine-based economy could thrive in Barrington and Warrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s expanded landscape of wetness. Restored wetlands have mineral-rich ocean water flowing through them that would make them well-suited for mussels and oysters.

Saltwater shellfish farming could flourish here like it has for many years throughout the Narragansett Bay.

CASE STUDY - There are opportunities to incorporate environmental stewardship into education. On our trip we learned about how sailing is part of the 4th grade curriculum in

Newport â&#x20AC;&#x201C; something about SLR adaptation and habitat restoration could be part of the curriculum in Barrington and Warren.

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SITES OF ADAPTATION

122 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

The strategies from the previous section can be used as a series of planning tools. By applying these to four different focus sites, one can visualize how this plan will be applied.

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123

SITE SELECTION IDENTIFYING CRITICAL SITES

SITE SELECTION

WAMPANOAG TRAIL

JAMIEL PARK

124 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

WATER STREET

UPLAND DEVELOPMENT ZONE

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125

WAMPANOAG TRAIL TITLE INFRASTRUCTURE

WAMPANOAG TRAIL

Route 114, known as Wampanoag Trail or County Road in Barrington, and Main Street in Warren, is a critical link in the Rhode Island road network that connects both towns to Providence and Bristol. We will be focusing on the effects of sea

126 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

level rise on the Wampanoag Trail portion of this path in Barrington, because if this segment remains unaddressed, the rising waters could sever a critical connection from the surrounding neighborhoods to the region.

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127

WAMPANOAG TRAIL

Around 45% of Barrington and Warrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s residents commute north to jobs in Providence and Kent Counties, heavily relying on Wampanoag Trail as one of their routes. This

128 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

WAMPANOAG TRAIL TITLE

WAMPANOAG TRAIL

can be seen by the nearly 25,000 vehicles that travel on this road every day per studies done

by RI Department of Transportation (RIDOT).

This highlights the importance of addressing sea

level rise and flooding along this route.

Because of its size and capacity as a state route, Wampanoag Trail is also part of the Rhode Island Emergency Route Network, a network that is critical for maintaining the safety of residents

before and during extreme weather events.

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129

WAMPANOAG TRAIL ALTERNATIVES In our infrastructure analysis, we saw that by 5ft of sea level rise all major bridges in the region were compromised, which means that almost all major evacuation routes and daily travel paths are cut off, including a 2.5- to 3-mile portion of Wampanoag Trail.

We evaluated multiple options for replacing Wampanoag Trail over this flooded portion including a tunnel, a causeway, and a ferry system. The estimated cost of these infrastructure upgrades was over $600 million for a tunnel, between $300 and $500 million for an elevated causeway, or $21 million per ferry plus the cost of terminal infrastructure.

All of these options would be huge infrastructure investments for Rhode Island, but the reality is that Wampanoag Trail is not the only portion of roadway infrastructure that needs attention in order to maintain these communities.

Because all these options are so costly, we think that an investment would be better spent reinforcing other critical entrances and exits into the community and to abandon a portion of Wampanoag Trail. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a choice between maintaining one route in and out of the community or reinforcing at least 4 to 5 other routes.

Instead of replacing Wampanoag Trail, other roads could be raised and widened to expand capacity on already existing routes. Road widening costs ranges from $2M to $11M per mile. You could widen over 40 miles of road for the price of a causeway. The Barrington and

130 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

WAMPANOAG TRAIL TITLE Warren Bridges cost about $15 to $20 million per bridge, which means other bridges could be elevated for well under the cost of the causeway as well.

Using our guiding strategies of Reinforce, Retreat, and Restore, we propose a set of plans to maintain critical connections in

the neighborhood while avoiding expensive infrastructure at a single location. We propose reinforcing certain critical connection points before 5 feet of sea level rise. After 5 feet of sea level rise, we recommended retreating from inundated roadways and rerouting traffic on reinforced existing roadways.

TUNNEL

>

$600 million +

>

$300 - $500 million

>

$21 million per boat

CAUSEWAY

FERRY

We propose reinforcing certain critical connection points before 5 feet of sea level rise.

After 5 feet of sea level rise, we recommended

retreating from inundated roadways and rerouting traffic on reinforced existing roadways.

Additionally, there are 4 bridge sites that we

think should be elevated to protect evacuation route connections as soon as possible before 5 feet of sea level rise.

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131

WAMPANOAG TRAIL TITLE

WAMPANOAG TRAIL TITLE

Washington Road Bridge The Washington Road bridge becomes impaired as early as 1 foot of sea level rise Barrington & Warren Bridges The Barrington and Warren Bridges are an important connection between Barrington and Warren, the flooding of which could hurt the culture and economy of both towns and limit through traffic that supports local businesses.

The existing bridges should be retrofitted to connect all the way from Barrington to Warren, without stopping at Tyler Point.

Child Street Bridge The Child Street Bridge is a critical connection from the East Bay to eastern Warren and a direct route to Massachusetts. It will be affected at 5 feet of SLR.

Wampanoag Trail

Wampanoag Trail will remain mostly accessible through 3 feet of SLR with minor spots of inundation that are exacerbated during king tide events, but by 5 feet of sea level rise there will be constant inundation on large sections of the road. We propose reinforcing these portions of Wampanoag Trail using green infrastructure.

Barrington Bridge95

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133

WAMPANOAG TRAIL EXISTING CONDITIONS

WAMPANOAG TRAIL TITLE PROPOSED INTERVENTION WAMPANOAG TRAIL

This section shows conditions at 3 feet of sea level rise where king tide events will be high enough to cause water to flow over the road surface, filling in median spaces. Flooding during storm and king tide events is already occurring on portions of Wampanoag Trail and will continue to grow as sea level rises.

134 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

WAMPANOAG TRAIL

We propose reinforcing the parts of Wampanoag Trail that will be flooded with green infrastructure that will sustain the roads through 3 feet of sea level rise. This can be done by taking advantage of the median space between portions of the road and adding culverts underneath the road to channel water into a

deepened median avoiding flooding on the road during high, or king tide events. This will help to prevent water from flooding over the surface of the road and maintain safe driving conditions.

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135

WAMPANOAG TRAIL

WAMPANOAG TRAIL TITLE Maple Avenue Our last reinforcement site is Maple Avenue, which contains a majority of the commercial area in Barrington, highlighted here in red.

Maple Avenue is threatened by sea level rise from Brickyard Pond. As a result, we feel that it is important to protect this road and the properties around it and believe that it can be done with smaller infrastructure upgrades. This is also an opportunity to increase the commercial importance of this area in Barrington and make it more of a main street commercial corridor.

Trendyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pizza, Maple Avenue 97

Maple Avenue, Barrington Housing 96

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137

WAMPANOAG TRAIL BIKE PATH | CURRENT CONDITION

EAST BAY BIKE PATH

WAMPANOAG TRAIL TITLE BIKE PATH | PROPOSED INTERVENTION

EAST BAY BIKE PATH

MAPLE AVENUE

MAPLE AVENUE

BRICKYARD POND BRICKYARD POND

This section shows the existing conditions of Maple Avenue and its proximity to Brickyard Pond and the East Bay Bike Path. Maple Avenue is at a slightly higher elevation than the brickyard pond area and intermediate residential areas.

138 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

To protect Maple Avenue and its commercial properties, we propose relocating the East Bay Bike Path to higher ground and elevating it along Brickyard pond to act as a barrier protecting Maple Avenue against sea level rise.

We considered just elevating the bike path,

however this would not have been sufficient to protect against rising waters. Relocating the path will allow the bike path to remain usable and connected from Providence to Bristol while providing the perfect opportunity to create an elevated barrier.

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139

WAMPANOAG TRAIL

WAMPANOAG TRAIL TITLE Planned Retreat After reinforcing critical connections by raising certain bridges and diverting water away from portion of Wampanoag Trial and Maple Avenue, the second part of our strategy is to retreat from segments of Wampanoag Trail and Market Street. At 5 to 7 feet of sea level rise, these segments will no longer be passible even with infrastructure improvements that divert water away from the road. Instead of spending hundreds of millions of dollars to build new infrastructure, we propose instead widening and expanding existing roads that will not be as inundated by rising sea levels and realigning a portion of Market Street.

How will a retreat from Wampanoag Trail affect other roads in the community? To address this, we evaluated road sections of the remaining critical paths that would have to take a large portion of the traffic that is diverted from Wampanoag Trail. These routes would also be the remaining emergency routes.

Storm Surge Flooding, Warren RI98

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141

WAMPANOAG TRAIL

WAMPANOAG TRAIL TITLE PROPOSED EMERGENCY ROUTES WAMPANOAG TRAIL

We propose using Route 103 (Willett Avenue as you exit Barrington) as the main emergency pathway out of Barrington. This is already a larger state route with two lanes in each direction that has the space for potential widening to add extra capacity. Making this the major exit route out of Barrington however will mean that the other roads in Barrington will have to carry vehicles to this point. This would mean diverting Wampanoag Trailâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s current traffic along Maple Avenue, Middle Highway, Nayatt Road, and Washington Road. A full traffic study would need to be performed to determine exactly which treatments are needed on each road.

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WILLETT ROAD

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143

WAMPANOAG TRAIL PROPOSED EMERGENCY ROUTES WASHINGTON ROAD

MIDDLE HIGHWAY

WAMPANOAG TRAIL TITLE PROPOSED EMERGENCY ROUTES These existing roads in Barrington are smaller than Wampanoag Trail and Route 103 though, with a limiting capacity for expansion through Maple Avenue. Maple Avenue has 12 foot lanes with commercial and residential buildings very close to the road right-of-way which means that adding additional traffic lanes would be not be possible. The diversion of traffic through Maple Avenue however is still an opportunity to make Maple Avenue a more prominent commercial main street in Barrington, similar to that in Warren.

However, because additional lanes cannot be added to Maple Avenue, some remaining traffic will need to be diverted along Nayatt Road to Washington Road to connect to Route 103 as an emergency path. This will most likely be the main route for larger vehicles and truck traffic to move through the neighborhood. Because of this, we propose expanding Washington Road to 15 foot lanes with a shoulder and expanding Nayatt Road to include a shoulder as well.

MAPLE AVENUE

NAYATT ROAD

In retreating from Wampanoag Trail, these proposals would cover the expansion of around 20 miles of roadway. Per our earlier estimates, this would cost less than $200 million which is much less than other considering options.

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145

WAMPANOAG TRAIL

WAMPANOAG TRAIL TITLE

The current alignment of Market Street will be well underwater by the time sea level rise hits 3 feet and it only gets worse as level rises. As a result, we propose rerouting this major connection point between Warren and Massachusetts. This would require extending Metacom Avenue, which is already a major thoroughfare, north through an existing farm land and golf course and connecting to Schoolhouse Road and Market Street.

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A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

147

WAMPANOAG TRAIL BOARDWALK

WAMPANOAG TRAIL TITLE

Wetlands Boardwalk, Bok Tower Gardens, FL99

After portions of Wampanoag Trail and Market Street have been abandoned, we see an opportunity to restore these areas to their natural wetland habitats. Restoration to wetlands will help to absorb future inundation and protect remaining areas of Barrington.

In addition to natural restoration, this area would be a prime location for a boardwalk that would encourage engagement with the environment and provide outdoor space for educational opportunities. We are proposing a boardwalk along the current Wampanoag Trail path

between the White Church and Primrose Hill Road with additional access from Old County Road. Extended landings will provide wetland access for the community to enjoy. The spaces could be used as outdoor classrooms and meeting spaces.

Wetlands Educational Programming, Texas Community Watershed100

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149

WAMPANOAG TRAIL SITE PLAN EVALUATION

RESTORE RETREAT

REINFORCE

1 FEET

Wampanoag Trail Culverts

3 FEET

✓

✓

Critical Point Elevation

✓

✓

Maple Avenue Reinforce

✓

✓

New Emergency Routes

5 FEET

7 FEET

✓

✓

Outdoor Classroom

✓

Boardwalk

✓

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151

WATER STREET TITLE

INDUSTRY

WATER STREET

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153

WATER STREET TITLE SITE CONTEXT

WATER STREET TITLE HISTORIC CENTER

Historically, Water Street was more industrial, but today it is a commercial center that continues to have an active waterfront and boating industry. Water Street should be preserved and reinforced as an important economic driver for the town and the connections it fosters with the waterfront.

Water Street is the heart of the townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s historic district, featuring many historic homes, mill buildings, and carriage houses. This epicenter of culture and marine economy, including the iconic Blount businesses, is vulnerable to storm surge, and the southern part of Water Street will be most affected by SLR.

Water Street, Warren Housing

101

Many properties along Water St. are vulnerable to storm surge. Water Street residents and business owners should reinforce their properties to withstand a dangerous storm surge. Temporary flood barriers, including water tanks and gravel containers, could be deployed before large storms to decrease the amount of water inundating buildings.

Water Street, Warren Housing102

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155

WATER STREET TITLE RISK PROFILE STORM SURGE

WATER STREET TITLE RISK PROFILE | 1’ SLR

AMERICAN TOURISTER BUILDING WHARF TAVERN TRAFFORD

Sea Level Rise will affect Water Street in different increments. One foot of SLR will only impact a few buildings, including two restaurants – the Wharf Tavern and Trafford.

Source/Caption

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A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

157

WATER STREET TITLE RISK PROFILE | 3’ SLR

WATER STREET TITLE RISK PROFILE | 5’ SLR

AMERICAN TOURISTER BUILDING ANCHORAGE DRYER BOATS

TAV - VINO

PROTECTOR BOATS WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT BLOUNT FINE FOODS BLOUNT BOATS

At 3 feet of SLR, Anchorage Dryer Boats, Blount Boats, part of the Wastewater Treatment Plant, and the Tourister Building are all at risk. There are also several waterfront residences at the southern tip of Water Street that are vulnerable.

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At 5 feet of SLR, Blount Industries, Blount Fine Foods, Tra Vino Restaurant, and Protector Boats will all be inundated.

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WATER STREET TITLE RISK PROFILE | 7â&#x20AC;&#x2122; SLR

WATER STREET TITLE RELOCATE BUILDINGS

WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT BLOUNT BOATS

Water Street home, Warren RI103

By 7 feet of SLR the whole Wastewater Treatment Plant, the Blount Market, and additional residences along Water Street will be inundated.

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Our plan for Water Street employs Reinforce and Retreat strategies. For houses on the waterfront we recommend two options. First, the houses could be moved; this might be difficult because of cost and obstacles along the route like bridges, trees, and powerlines. The

Water Street home, Warren RI104

second option is for homeowners to retreat and potentially participate in the buyout program.

Either way, homes would no longer be on Water Street, and the land would be converted to wetlands.

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WATER STREET TITLE

BUILDING

WATER STREET ESSENTIAL BUILDINGS BUILDING VALUE

LAND VALUE

TOTAL VALUE

WHARF TAVERN

$593,100

$383,600

$976,700

TAFFORD

$475,200

$347,600

$823,600

ANCHORAGE - DRYER BOATS

$259,000

$408,300

$684,300

BLOUNT BOATS

$809,000

$631,600

$1,473,900

WASTE WATER TREATMENT

$1,134,500

$376,500

$1,922,000

BLOUNT FOODS FACTORY

$1,058,700

$338,900

$1,397,600

TAV - VINO RESTAURANT

$302,900

$358,400

$666,400

PROTECTOR BOATS

$285,600

$383,500

$669,100

BLOUNT MARKET

$267,300

$123,500

$391,800

$5,185,500

$2,720,300

$9,005,400

SUM

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To figure out how to plan for Water Street to overcome its future challenges, we identified some buildings which are considered significant components of the street as essential buildings based on several criteria. All the essential buildings are commercial or industrial buildings, and we didn’t include residential buildings since they are less dependent on water compared with commercial and industrial ones. We focused on businesses that must be located on water, such as shipbuilding. We also took the difficulty of moving the properties into consideration as the buildings are more likely to stay where they are now in the future, and thus they would be vulnerable to sea-level rise.

Another important factor is the building value, land value, and the significance of businesses in local economy. Finally, some businesses may not have a very high building value or land value, but we still identify them as essential because we believe they would help keep the waterfront alive and would act as substantial contributors to the vitality and characters of Water Street.

AMERICAN TOURISTER BUILDING BLOUNT FINE FOODS WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT BLOUNT BOATS

To classify essential buildings on Water Street, we considered several criteria. We looked at the land and building values for structures vulnerable at each increment of SLR, as well as which buildings require water access.

The street’s older residences and prominent waterfront businesses contribute to the town’s historic character, so for those in particular, we evaluated if it is worth moving, lifting, or protecting them.

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163

WATER STREET

WATER STREET KEY BUILDINGS

Several restaurants, including the Wharf Tavern and the Trafford, must be reinforced before one foot of SLR in order to stay in operation. Lifting buildings will protect them from flood waters so that they can continue supporting the local economy. Lifting buildings is expensive, but buys valuable time to maintain the economy while other more permanent options are explored.

Several buildings, including Tav Vino Restaurant, will need to be reinforced to withstand 5 feet of SLR. A multi-use industrial building houses Protector Boats, the Warren Art Center, and several other businesses. This industrial building is too large to move. The first floor will need to be floodable, giving second floor businesses the opportunity to become water accessible destinations.

AMERICAN TOURISTER BUILDING

TRAFFORD106

PROTECTOR BOATS107

BLOUNT FINE FOODS

WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT WHARF TAVERN105

LIFT 164 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

TAV - VINO108

BLOUNT BOATS A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

165

WATER STREET KEY BUILDINGS

WATER STREET TITLE CASE STUDY: BUILDING PROTECTION

POTENTIAL BERM EXTENSION PROPOSED BERM

The photos below show a proposed project in Boston with a wide walkway and elevated docks that could serve as an example for Warren’s berm. There will be a trail on top of Warren's berm, which will connect to the Tourister Building, Main Street, and the wetland on the southern tip of Water Street. In this way, the town would not lose its public space, and the waterfront would remain easily accessed by visitors and continue as an active recreational area.

For the future of Water Street, vulnerable buildings midway up the street should be lifted or vacated, the houses at the south end will be moved and replaced by wetlands, and a berm will protect the most valuable buildings while creating a new recreational space.

Along the southern part of Water Street, we propose the construction of a berm to protect The Wastewater Treatment Plant, Blount Foods, and Blount Boats. These three buildings rely on the water and have the highest value. The construction of a berm will allow the Blount businesses and Wastewater Treatment Plant to maintain access to the water. It would be too difficult and expensive to move or lift their buildings. Instead, a berm will protect the Wastewater Treatment Plant and both Blount businesses so they are reinforced to continue supporting the local and regional economy.

PROTECT 166 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

“Navigating Rising Waters” Boston, MA109

“Flood Proof South Boston”110

PROTECT A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

167

WATER STREET SITE PLAN EVALUATION

RETREAT

REINFORCE

1 FEET

3 FEET

Protect Key Buildings (Water Treatment Plant)

✓

Elevate Homes and Businesses

✓

Relocate Key Buildings (TavVino, Blount Fine Food)

168 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

5 FEET

7 FEET

✓ ✓

✓

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169

JAMIEL PARK TITLE

JAMIEL PARK

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A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

171

JAMIEL PARK

JAMIEL PARK CONTEXT

Jamiel Park is a local recreation space spanning about 10 acres along the southeastern tip of Belchers Cove. Once a landfill site, the parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history and future are both concerning.

Jamiel Park is the former industrial landfill for manufacturers like the American Tourister Factory. While most of the site was recently remediated, the final phase to address the northern end of the park has yet to be completed.

Already susceptible to regular flooding, the potential for contaminants leaching into the cove is high. Contamination of this kind could harm the natural wildlife and habitat of the cove as well as the surrounding area. Long term adaptation planning for this site is necessary for the health of this ecosystem.

Creek adjacent to Jamiel Park111

More currently, consistent flooding has come from the surrounding wetlands. Water from the cove and inlet that borders the northeast side of the park is the main source of regular flooding.

Additionally, the invasion of non-native species such as Phragmites have become pervasive in

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Belcherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cove borders the northeastern edge of the park112

the area, threatening native wildlife habitat and other native plant species.

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173

JAMIEL PARK CONTEXT

Jamiel Park, flooded infrastructure113

Flooding from the nearby cove has slowly started to erode the existing infrastructure, and often makes the park’s playing fields unusable.

The town is aware of Jamiel Park’s vulnerability, and concern for its future was clearly expressed during our visit to Warren.

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JAMIEL PARK TITLE CONTEXT

Jamiel Park, aging infrastructure114

However, it’s clear that the risks expand far beyond the park itself. Much of this area is in census tract 305, Warren’s most economically disadvantaged neighborhood. So, the risks for this region present not only environmental concerns, but economic and community

challenges as well.

Jamiel Park, regularly flooded ring road115

Running alongside the Belchers Cove is a road that serves as access to the park. This impermeable surface becomes inundated with water as flooding occurs from the cove and nearby inlet. The road is in poor condition and is underutilized by visitors to the park. A small

Jamiel Park, regularly flooded ring road116

parking lot running along the southern border of the park, located along Market Street is also underutilized and in poor condition.

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175

JAMIEL PARK RISK PROFILE CURRENT CONDITIONS

Currently, the area of Jamiel Park is not permanently affected, affected only by tides that enter through the inlet, and its geological creek (highlighted in blue).

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JAMIEL PARK TITLE RISK PROFILE STORM SURGE

A storm surge shows that this area of Warren is by far the most vulnerable. The entire area would be inaccessible.

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177

JAMIEL PARK RISK PROFILE | 1’ SLR

At 1 foot of sea level rise, only two buildings are affected, both of which belong to the Furniture Stripper. The park also begins to lose accessibility on its Market Street entrance.

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JAMIEL PARK TITLE RISK PROFILE | 3’ SLR

At 3 feet of sea level rise, 31 buildings, including 16 homes are inundated. The Warren Dog Officer, JJ’s Cleaners, three auto body shops ,and a restaurant are all a part of what is lost. Half of the park is also inaccessible.

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179

JAMIEL PARK RISK PROFILE | 5â&#x20AC;&#x2122; SLR

At 5 feet of sea level rise, 177 buildings are inundated, 128 of which are homes. At this point, the town loses its National Grid station, its US National Guard Recruitment Center, a shopping center, a metal manufacturer, and more restaurants. Jamiel Park is mostly underwater.

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JAMIEL PARK TITLE RISK PROFILE | 7â&#x20AC;&#x2122; SLR

At 7 feet of sea level rise, the damage spreads to more shopping centers and homes. The area, including the park itself, is essentially a lagoon.

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181

JAMIEL PARK THE CREEK

Belcher’s Cove117

This area is clearly in peril - now, and in the future. In this section we’ll look at restoration, the park itself, and finally, steps to regulate and retreat. To begin, the most critical step should be the expansion of the existing inlet.

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JAMIEL PARK TITLE THE CREEK

Park adjacent inlet/creek118

The inlet ties into a US Geological Services identified geological hydroline, a temporary type of hydrology that carries water in times of high precipitation.

By expanding the inlet and allowing for the permanent inundation of its hydroline, it could become a mappable creek, directing and controlling much of the area’s flooding.

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183

JAMIEL PARK THE CREEK

The water would slowly flow to feed interior wetlands. While the creek would eventually become an important part of the larger submerged ecosystem, it would help to protect valuable assets and routes in the interim.

184 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

JAMIEL PARK TITLE THE CREEK

The route would go through approximately a dozen properties, only a few of which have structures. Several of these structures, however, are already recommended to be moved due to their pollution.

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185

JAMIEL PARK THE CREEK

The cross section above shows an approximation of the areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s current topology.

The inlet currently spills into the surrounding wetlands during high tides, and during king tides, overflows onto both the park, surrounding businesses, and even onto Market Street to

186 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

JAMIEL PARK TITLE THE CREEK

the south. The harsh pollutants of the nearby businesses endanger the surrounding habitat.

The future of this area could be an expansive wetland, with a widened creek bed that carries much of the water downstream. Jamiel Park and the surrounding businesses would become a protective habitat for this entire area of town.

This step forward could help put Warren on the

map as an adaptive leader in restorative efforts.

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187

JAMIEL PARK

CURRENT CONDITIONS

RUBBLIZED SURFACES

JAMIEL PARK TITLE GSI

While the creek expansion is underway, the second aspect of this plan is to begin work on Jamiel Park itself.

To begin, the town can act quickly to remove and rubblize the road infrastructure that traverses the eastern edge of the site. This will reduce impermeable surfaces, taking advantage of areas that are currently underutilized and regularly flooded. The rubblized concrete can remain on site and serve as a foundation for an elevated classroom.

As these surfaces are removed, adding additional targeted green stormwater infrastructure (GSI) will help to absorb intrusive water, and can protect the recreational uses of the park in the short term.

188 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

189

JAMIEL PARK PHYTOREMEDIATION

JAMIEL PARK TITLE

Stormwater infrastructure can integrate with the phytoremediation of the site- a natural process that employs native species to remove toxins from the soil. Both of these techniques will assist with flooding, while maintaining usage of most of the site. Also, this natural remediation has the potential to become a collaborative endeavor with local academic institutions and will begin transforming the area toward its wetland future.

Further down the line, as infrastructure on the site reaches the end of their expected life, we recommend that these assets do not get replaced, but that they, too, be returned to a natural state.

190 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

LEMNOIDEAE

ACER PSEUDOPLATANUS

LUPINUS

ANDROPOGON GLOERATUS

PANICUM

QUERCUS ROBUR

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191

JAMIEL PARK OUTDOOR CLASSROOM

JAMIEL PARK TITLE OUTDOOR CLASSROOM

It’s important not to just absorb the inundation, but to engage with it. To do so, Warren should create an elevated outdoor classroom, as Belcher’s Cove is home to a thriving ecosystem of native flora and fauna. The town can repurpose the rubblized materials from the park for its foundation.

By creating a space where local schools can come and observe the environment, an outdoor classroom can be both an educational space, as well as a recreational retreat for residents and visitors to the area.

Additionally, by placing this elevated platform on the highest elevation of the park, it will remain largely safe from inundation. Up in the northern corner, the platform can overlook the area as it becomes a wetland, even during as much as 7’ of SLR. Outdoor classroom, Swan Lake119

192 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

193

JAMIEL PARK FLOATING WALKWAY 1’ SLR While waters rise around it, a floating walkway could attach to the classroom to create a new wetland nature walk.

JAMIEL PARK TITLE FLOATING WALKWAY 5’ SLR It would view the expanded inlet, surrounding wetlands, and eventually, a submerged landscape. This will allow for long-term adaptation, and financial flexibility, as it can be built in segments over time.

As the walkway expands, it can even replace the connection that will be lost with the submergence of the existing, nearby bike path.

Floating pedestrian walkway120

194 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

Floating pedestrian walkway121

A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

195

JAMIEL PARK FLOATING WALKWAY

JAMIEL PARK TITLE RISK EDUCATION

Outdoor experiential learning123

The outdoor classroom will act as a space to allow residents to gather, observe and learn about how SLR changes the landscape of their community. This educational element should fold into a broader town-wide effort on risk communication. The town should start the

196 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

Outdoor classroom & floating walkway, Swan Lake122

conversation to ensure that the community knows their risk by establishing a well-informed public outreach program. Informing local homeowners about their current and future flood risks will allow residents to move forward and make well-informed decisions for their future.

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197

JAMIEL PARK REGULATION

JAMIEL PARK TITLE

While these restorative factors will help sustain the region for years, the long-term outlook is troubling. Jamiel Park and the surrounding areas are largely inundated at 5’ of SLR, and storm surge may push people out even before this.

Retreat is the final step for the area, and it can largely be done through regulation.

Polluting businesses that currently operate in the area should be required to treat their site for potential contaminants to accommodate the first 3’ feet of flooding. Further regulations restricting the development of new businesses in this area should also be enforced. As a business that’s vulnerable at 1’ of SLR, we recommend that the Furniture Stripper, shown in these images, be relocated immediately.

Additionally, while Warren has already adopted the state’s building code regulations, we recommended that they expand compliance from new structures to all existing affected properties.

Furniture Stripper, Warren RI124

198 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

King Tide Flooding , Jamiel Park 125

A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

199

JAMIEL PARK REGULATION

Warren Auto Body Shop126

This is also the perfect place to implement a restricted overlay, as it is the area in Warren that will be most damaged by rising waters. In order to assist in the relocation, the town can

200 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

JAMIEL PARK TITLE REGULATION

Warren Auto Body Shop127

introduce permit or fee incentives for businesses and homeowners to move to a site free from the risk of flooding. There could be additional benefits to moving to designated areas of safety.

Child Street businesses & residences

Ultimately, some properties may even be eligible for the proposed buyout program. These buyout properties, along with voluntary movers wishing to take advantage of relocation incentives, can

all move to the townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s upland development zone, discussed in the following section.

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201

JAMIEL PARK SITE PLAN EVALUATION

RESTORE

RETREAT

REINFORCE

1 FEET

✓

Remove Impervious Surfaces

✓

Phytoremediation

✓

Floating Walkway

202 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

7 FEET

✓

Buyout Program and Upland Development Zone

Outdoor Classroom

5 FEET

✓

Creek Expansion Regulation

3 FEET

✓ ✓

✓ ✓

✓

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203

UPLAND ZONE TITLE

UPLAND DEVELOPMENT ZONE

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A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

205

UPLAND ZONE TITLE

Through our analysis, we estimated that 365 buildings would be lost in Warren as a result of 7 feet of SLR, mostly in census tract 305.

Recognizing how losing these properties would greatly disrupt the townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economy and quality of life, our goal is to retain as much of the

206 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

UPLAND ZONE TITLE

population as possible, while attracting new people to Warren to boost the fiscal health and future economic vitality of the town.

A voluntary buyout program targeted at inundated properties will enable residents to

retreat from the rising sea while relocating to higher ground within Warren. To accommodate residents participating in the buyout program and to encourage future growth, the retreat and relocation strategy will densify major streets and create a new upland development district.

We identified Main Street and Metacom Avenue as promising areas for applying an overlay district. These corridors are currently zoned as several kinds of residential and business districts, so they already offer the type of mixeduse development we envision for Warren. More

importantly, these areas are safe from flooding associated with SLR. The overlay district will allow and encourage additional heights and lot coverage to expand existing building capacity to accommodate relocated homes and businesses.

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207

UPLAND ZONE TITLE

However, we do recognize that creating an overlay district is more of an incremental process and is limited for motivating development immediately. Therefore, we also identified larger sites that could accommodate more immediate development.

208 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

UPLAND ZONE TITLE

Initially we identified two remote upland zones in Warren. They are safe from SLR and storm surge events, and they offer large parcels that could be subdivided for development. We envisioned up-zoning these areas to incrementally relocate at-risk homes and businesses. As we took a

closer look at these areas, however, we realized that they were less than ideal.

This land use map shows that the areas we identified are a patchwork of land uses, including reserves and conservation areas. It would be complicated to establish an overlay district in this diverse landscape with similarly diverse zoning. More importantly, they are not

identified as â&#x20AC;&#x153;sewered urban areas.â&#x20AC;? It would be extremely costly to extend sewer and water infrastructure to these areas.

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209

UPLAND ZONE TITLE

The map above shows that the sites are also distant from the existing public transit and road network. Again, it would be costly to extend the roads and transit lines to these sites, not to mention it would be challenging to navigate around the conservation areas.

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UPLAND ZONE TITLE

After conducting an exhaustive site selection, we chose to focus on repurposing the cemeteries in the heart of Warren. They are located within census tract 305 in the central, upland area of Warren that is not reached by SLR.

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211

UPLAND ZONE TITLE

These sites are in a prime location. They are surrounded by commercial and residential development and they are adjacent to community assets such as two schools, a church, parks, and the Warren fire station. Even better, sewer, water, and transit infrastructure are already in place.

212 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

UPLAND ZONE

Relocating cemeteries is a somewhat radical proposition, but it is not unheard of.

Throughout America’s history, cemeteries have been uprooted and moved to make way for development. San Francisco relocated all but 2 of its cemeteries in the early 1900s to give the booming city room to grow. The Tennessee

Valley Authority relocated about 20,000 graves in the 1930s to protect them against flooding when it created a water-fueled power station.

And in Philadelphia, 85,000 graves were moved from the Odd Fellows Cemetery so that the land could be used to build public housing.

The cemetery site is comprised of 6 parcels with 3 owners. Because these cemeteries are historic assets for Warren and it is somewhat costly to relocate cemeteries, we want to be sensitive and efficient with the space we take for development.

In our proposal, we focus on two cemeteries: St. Jean’s and St. Mary of the Bay.

The cost of relocating cemeteries varies, but one example we studied in Georgia cost about $2,000 per grave. St Jean’s and St. Mary cemeteries together contain 4,400 graves, so using the cost estimate from Georgia would bring the total cost of relocating both cemeteries to about $8.8 million.

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213

UPLAND ZONE TITLE DEVELOPMENT PROPOSAL

OAK STREET

UPLAND ZONE DEVELOPMENT PROPOSAL

GREENLAWN AVE

Warren South Cemetery

GREENLAWN AVE

St.Mary of the Bay Cemetery

VERNON ST VERNON ST

The two cemetery sites combined offer a total of 13 acres of development area. Given that census tract 305 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the part of Warren hardesthit by SLR â&#x20AC;&#x201C; has 70% renters, we envision accommodating 320 multi-family units and 80 single-family units on the combined site, a

214 A Future with Water: Sea Level Rise in Rhode Island

slightly higher renter-owner ratio to encourage higher density development and more efficient use of the cemetery land. For participants in the buyout program, the town can offer an incentive package that provides an additional 10-15% bonus in existing assessment of the property for

those who relocate to this development area.

About 50% of the site will be reserved for green infrastructure, open space, or to accommodate future development. The central corridor will follow the hydrography of the creek that flows south from Jamiel Park. It will be designed to collect water during large storm events.

The repurposed cemetery will showcase Warren as an example adaptive community.

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215

UPLAND ZONE UPLAND ZONE DEVELOPMENT PROPOSAL

UPLAND ZONE TITLE

Overall, we believe this upland development strategy will reduce flood risk and support longterm, sustained economic growth for Warren.

The town is at a critical crossroads and it must decide how to put its dwindling dry land to the highest and best use. Densifying main streets

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will support Warrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s existing residents and businesses and repurposing the cemetery will give the town a safe, well-connected place to grow.

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UPLAND ZONE SITE PLAN EVALUATION

RETREAT

Regulation

1 FEET

3 FEET

5 FEET

7 FEET

Creat Overlay District on Main Street and Metacom Street to Allow Higher Density

✓

Relocate St. Mary of the Bay Cemetery and St. Jean Cemetery

✓

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CONCLUDING REMARKS Through our work this semester, we got to know Barrington and Warren very well and understand the history and qualities that make these two towns special. As climate change and sea level rise continue to affect these communities, embracing their history with water will allow them to adapt and preserve their vitality.

We developed the reinforce, retreat, and restore strategies as a toolkit for adaptation in support of the great work of our partners at the University of Rhode Island, the Coastal Resources Management Council, and the state and local governments. The effects of climate change can be overwhelming, but they also present exciting opportunities for positive change.

Looking toward the future, both towns will face many challenges as they come to terms with the effects of climate change and sea level rise, and the communities may look different than they do today. However, by developing well-informed and meaningful adaptation strategies now, these coastal communities will be empowered to thrive and to shine as leaders for all of Rhode Island.

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

THE STUDIO TEAM

This plan was created as part of the City and Regional Planning Fall 2018 Rhode Island Sea Level Rise Studio at the University of Pennsylvania School of Design.

Anne Albert, Land Use & Environment, MCP 2019 Jiahuan Cai, Public Private Development, MCP 2019 Emily Goldstein, Sustainable Transportation & Infrastructure, MCP 2019 Jennifer Gutierrez, Land Use & Environment MCP 2019 Rachael Hartofelis, Smart Cities, MCP 2019 Yayu Liu, Urban Design, MCP 2019 Kristen Scudder, Sustainable Transportation & Infrastructure, MCP 2019 Christopher Salzano, Land Use & Environment, MCP 2019 Steven Wang, Public Private Development, MCP 2019 Baiwei Zhang, Urban Design, MCP 2019

Many thanks to our instructors for their guidance during this studio project- Scott Page and Jamie Granger. Scott founded Interface Studio, a Philadelphia urban design and planning firm that specializes in developing innovative neighborhood plans that enhance communication, awareness, and empowerment at the community level. He is also a graduate from the Master of City Planning program at the University of Pennsylvania. Jamie is also a Master of City Planning Graduate from the University of Pennsylvania and currently an Associate at Interface Studio.

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Scott Page, Principal, Interface Studio

Photo left to right: Jiahuan Cai, Kristen Scudder, Rachael Hartofelis, Baiwei Zhang, Emily Goldstein, Christopher Salzano, Steven Wang, Jennifer Gutierrez, Anne Albert, and Yayu Liu

Jamie Granger, Associate, Interface Studio

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ENDNOTES 1 The University of Rhode Island: Graduate School of Oceanography. https://www.crc.uri.edu/contacts_page/teresa-crean/ 2 The University of Rhode Island: Graduate School of Oceanography. http://ci.uri.edu/meet/amber-neville/ 3 Town of Warren, RI: Department of Planning and Community Development. http://www.townofwarren-ri.gov/departmentsaz/planningcommunitydev.html 4 Town of Barrington, RI: Department of Planning and Economic Development. http://www.barrington.ri.gov/departments/planning.php 5 RI Coastal Resources Management Council. http://www.crmc.ri.gov/aboutcrmc.html 6 The University of Rhode Island, Graduate School of Oceanography: Coastal Resource Center. https://www.crc.uri.edu/about/ 7 Global Climate Change, Vital Signs of the Planet. NASA. https://climate.nasa.gov/vital-signs/global-temperature/ 8 Climate Change Indicators: Greenhouse Gases. EPA. https://www.epa.gov/climate-indicators/greenhouse-gases 9 Global Climate Change, Vital Signs of the Planet. Sea Level. NASA. https://climate.nasa.gov/vital-signs/sea-level/ 10 Is Sea Level Rising? NOAA. https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/sealevel.html 11 NASA.org 12 American Census Bureau 13 What is a King Tide? NOAA. https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/kingtide.html 14 https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/nuisance-flooding.html 15 mycoast.com 16 mycoast.com 17 What is Storm Surge. NOAA. https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/stormsurge-stormtide.html 18 Is Sea Level Rising? NOAA. https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/sealevel.html 19 Northeast Particularly Vulnerable to Rising Seas. CRMC. http://www.crmc.ri.gov/news/2017_0516_risingseas.html 20 RI Facts and Figures. https://www.ri.gov/facts/history.php 21 What is Storm Surge. NOAA. https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/stormsurge-stormtide.html 22 BeachSAMP 23 Sea Level Rise Viewer. Office of Coastal Management Digital Coast. https://coast.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/tools/slr.html 24 Hurricane Carol. New England Historical Society. http://www.newenglandhistoricalsociety.com/hurricane-carol-deadly-name-retired/ 25 National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration [NOAA] 26 National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration [NOAA] 27 Resilient Rhody. Rhode Island Climate Change. http://climatechange.ri.gov/resiliency/ 28 RI Shoreline Change Special Area Management Plan. http://www.beachsamp.org/about/ 29 Resilient Rhody. Rhode Island Climate Change. http://climatechange.ri.gov/resiliency/ 30 RI Shoreline Change Special Area Management Plan. http://www.beachsamp.org/about/ 31 http://www.barrington.ri.gov/community/history/historicaloverview.php 32 web.uri.edu 33 https://pplspcoll.wordpress.com/author/jhamiltong/page/26/ 34 http://www.blountfinefoods.com/about-us/history 35 https://www.blountsmallshipadventures.com/about-blount/luthers-story/default.aspx 36 blountfinefoods.com

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37 blountfinefoods.com 38 http://www.newenglandhistoricalsociety.com/hurricane-carol-deadly-name-retired/ 39 Providence Journal 40 http://blog.cunysustainablecities.org/2009/08/no-such-thing-as-a-natural-disaster/ 41 http://www.barrington.ri.gov/community/history/historicaloverview.php 42 http://www.barrington.ri.gov/community/history/historicaloverview.php 43 http://www.barrington.ri.gov/community/history/historicaloverview.php 44 https://ci.uri.edu/ci-projects/support-of-primary-research/demonstration/ 45 MyCoast.org 46 MyCoast.org 47 https://ci.uri.edu/ci-projects/support-of-primary-research/demonstration/ 48 2016 Census ACS 5-Year report 49 https://www.planning.org/greatplaces/neighborhoods/2016/downtownwarren/ 50 https://www.npr.org/sections/thesalt/2016/09/05/492278535/whats-in-that-coffee-cabinet-a-delicious-taste-of-rhode-island-history 51 https://www.realtor.com/realestateandhomes-detail/543-Main-St_Warren_RI_02885_M33644-00331 52 https://www.mottandchace.com/real-estate/352-main-st-warren-ri-02885/1193835/56163237 53 Student Photo 54 Student Photo 55 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Barrington_Town_Hall_-_Barrington,_RI_-_DSC03912.jpg 56 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barrington,_Rhode_Island#/media/File:Congregational_Church,_Barrington_RI.jpg 57 Student Photo 58 Student Photo 59 Student Photo 60 http://www.visitingnewengland.com/warren-rhode-island.html 61 American FactFinder 62 https://www.census.gov/topics/housing.html 63 Tourister Mill Apartments. https://bradysullivan.com/rhode-island-residential-rent/tourister-mill 64 “Historic Marker Program.” Warren Preservation Society. 2012.

65 Student Photo 66 Student Photo 67 Student Photo 68 2016 Census ACS 5-Year report 69 Student Photo 70 Student Photo 71 Shaun O’Rourke, Resilient Rhody, State of Rhode Island, 2018, p 14-15.

72 Student Photo

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ENDNOTES 73 Student Photo 74 Interview with Marina Owner at Tyler Point, 10/1/2018.

75 Interview with State Officials, 10/1/18.

76 Biodiversity Data, Rhode Island Natural History Survey, https://rinhs.org/biodiversity-data/, 2018.

77 Data from ArcGIS layers sourced from RIGIS. 78 Town of Warren, Warren Hazard Mitigation Plan, 2014, p 33.

79 Student Photo 80 Data from ArcGis layers, sourced from RIGIS. 81 Student Photo 82 ocalacustomhomes.com 83 https://cooperativeenergyfutures.com 84 http://www.earthtechling.com 85 https://www.dailyherald.com/article/20100816/business/308169936/ 86 http://sorhodeisland.com 87 CRMC Facebook page 88 Urbanomnibus.net 89 Student Photo 90 natureconservancy.org 91 Warren Land Conservation Trust Facebook page 92 Student Photo 93 wetlandvision.org.uk 94 oceanservice.noaa.gov 95 Student Photo 96 Zillow.com 97 Ya Sabe.com 98 www.ecori.org/ 99 https://boktowergardens.org 100 https://tcwp.tamu.edu/ 101 Student Photo 102 Student Photo 103 Student Photo 104 Student Photo 105 https://thewharftavernri.com/ 106 https://www.traffordrestaurant.com/ 107 google.maps.com 108 https://www.pinterest.com

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109 Matthew Kiefer and Louise Giannakis, “Navigating Rising Waters: The Public Waterfront Act” Pragma. Written May 22, 2018. http://pragma.international/article/ navigating-rising-waters-the-public-waterfront-act 110 Adam Gaffin, “City Says It Can Flood-Proof South Boston As Seas Rise” Universal Hub. Written October 17, 2018. https://www.universalhub.com/2018/city-says-itcan-flood-proof-south-boston-seas 111 Student Photo 112 Student Photo 113 Student Photo 114 Student Photo 115 Student Photo 116 Student Photo 117 Student Photo 118 Student Photo 119 www.swanlake.bc.ca 120 www.chinadaily.com 121 www.swanlake.bc.ca 122 www.swanlake.bc.ca 123 Student Photo 124 Student Photo 125 MyCoast 126 Student Photo 127 Student Photo

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