What’s being considered for the Apple Street roadbed elevation?

Background

In March 2018 a storm caused considerable flooding in Essex. The main artery through town was partially submerged by record rainfall and exacerbated by astronomical high tides. Additionally, Apple Street on the Southern Avenue end flooded, impeding access for residents and emergency personnel. To mitigate potentially hazardous conditions, the town has developed a proposal to elevate a portion of Apple Street to maintain a dry approach in and out of Essex. Weather events such as the 2018 flood are expected to increase in coming years with rising sea levels and more volatile storm systems a norm. In addition to raising an 800-foot portion of the road, an underperforming culvert will be replaced, allowing more flow of water between upland creeks and critical marsh areas.

Conomo Point

Aerial photo of Essex and surrounding waters

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Map on left shows an overview of the Essex causeway and Apple Street corridor. Apple Street is a link to neighboring towns, including Hamilton and Manchester. Flooding from severe storms and astronomical high tides can cut access into and out of Essex for hours at a time. Such limitations in access can prove hazardous for emergency crews.

Map from Town of Essex website (Apple Street Roadbed Elevation & Culvert Replacement Project)