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1 Town of Brewster Green Infrastructure Project: Coastal Resilience at Breakwater Beach: RFR ENV 14 CZM 07
.GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE FOR COASTAL RESILIENCE PILOT GRANTS PROGRAM FY14
RFR ENV 14 CZM 07
Applicant: Brewster, Massachusetts (Cape Cod & the Islands)
Address: Brewster Town Offices
2198 Main Street
Brewster, MA 02631
Local Project Manager:
Name: Chris Miller
Department: Natural Resources
Email: cmiller@brewster-ma.gov
Phone: 508-896-4546 or cell 508-525-9135
Fax: 508-896-8089
Type of Green Infrastructure Project:
1) Beach, berm and dune building, enhancement, or restoration with compatible sediment and native
vegetation
2) Bio-engineering with coir rolls, natural fiber blankets, and other organic, biodegradable materials
combined with planting/re-vegetation
3) Natural enhancement/covering of an existing coastal structure
Project Title: Brewster Green Infrastructure Project: Coastal Resilience at Breakwater Beach
Total Project Cost: $268,825 Match Amount (at least 25% of TOTAL project cost): $69,222 (cash and in-kind)
Grant Amount Requested (maximum of $500,000): $200,000
Project Summary (brief description of the proposed project in one or two short paragraphs)
Breakwater Landing is a Town-owned 3.4-acre park, including a 59-space parking area and an approximately 300-
foot beach located on Cape Cod Bay. This is also an important access point to the Brewster Flats for vehicles
providing emergency response, and for the public who utilize it for over sand transport of machinery and sand for
nourishment projects on private properties within about a 1 mile radius. This Landing has been subject to repetitive
severe storm damage. The Town has regularly reconstructed a sacrificial vegetated dune at the north end of the lot
after major storm events, plus a sturdy sand fence to capture additional wind-blown sand. Despite this work, the
Town has lost 4-6 parking spaces and currently sand deposition has occurred 100 ft. into the parking lot.
The Town plans to remove and relocate the asphalt parking lot from near the beach to an area less vulnerable to
storm damage, provide comparable parking, restore an extensive protective and resilient dune habitat behind the
beach, improve beach access, and minimize impervious cover. This involves a coastal retreat of over 140 feet for
our parking infrastructure, and uses natural systems (vegetated dunes and elevation increase) to provide resilience
and habitat.
This application is for:
• design and permitting
• construction, installation and monitoring
• and will be completed within 14 months.
2 Town of Brewster Green Infrastructure Project: Coastal Resilience at Breakwater Beach: RFR ENV 14 CZM 07
1. PROBLEM: Severity of the erosion or flooding issue(s) or problem(s), current and potential threats and impacts
to coastal infrastructure and natural resources, and need for assistance. (15 points)
The Town of Brewster is a rural coastal town on Cape Cod, located on Cape Cod Bay. Brewster is approximately 25
square miles in area, with a shoreline of over 6 miles. At low tide, the sea recedes up to two miles offshore, exposing
approximately 12,000 acres of tidal flats in Brewster alone. Our year round population is approximately 9,820, plus a
25,000 person seasonal population. Our local economy is largely tourism based, and “the beach” is the number one
reason tourists visit, as reported by the Brewster Chamber of Commerce. Brewster is very rural, with nearly one-third
of its land area as protected open space.
Brewster’s 10 Landings provide access to public beach and the extensive tidal flats. Many of these Landings do not
have large parking areas and are mostly just the road layout where it reaches the beach; while two of them are
almost a ½ mile walk from parking areas.
Brewster is facing many management decisions for its landings and beaches as most are located between a
beach/dune area and wetlands. The coastal area is critically important to Brewster’s coastal character and economy.
In past years the Town has lost available parking spaces at four of its larger beach parking areas; we have
addressed one through coastal retreat/habitat restoration and rebuilding of the parking area at Paines Creek Landing;
however, this provided less public parking than the historic parking lot out in the dunes. Breakwater Landing is the
only other landing where we have the available land to allow retreat and restoration of natural systems to provide
protection for our infrastructure, as detailed in this proposal.
The Town’s entire coastline is currently in the FEMA VE flood zone and most or all of its tidal marsh and creek
system are mapped as AE. In the past five years, extensive parts of coastal Brewster have been exposed to storm
surge impacts, including dune washover, flooding and significant erosion. In some areas, up to 20 feet of
dune/coastal bank have been lost in a single storm event, including at the Breakwater Landing property.
Breakwater Landing is a Town-owned 3.4-acre park, including a 59-space parking area and an approximately 300-
foot beach located on Cape Cod Bay. This is also an important access point to the Brewster Flats for vehicles
providing emergency response, and for the public who utilize it for over sand transport of machinery and sand for
nourishment projects on private properties within about a 1 mile radius. This Landing has been subject to repetitive
severe storm damage, and has lost 4 parking spaces since 2009 (Att. 4 Site Photos).
CZM coastal transect CCB-0959 bisects the parking area at Breakwater Landing, and shows an erosion rate of 0.56
feet/year (Att. 1.b Massachusetts Shoreline Change Transect).
The Town has regularly reconstructed a sacrificial vegetated dune at the north end of the lot after major storm events
and has installed a sturdy sand fence to capture additional wind-blown sand. Despite this work, the Town has lost 4
parking spaces and currently sand deposition during storms has occurred 100 ft. into the parking lot. At this time, the
Town and adjacent property owners to the west are just completing reconfiguring this vegetated dune (March 31-April
4, 2014). This work is being done as a Town match, but is not a part of this grant request (Att. 2.a Proposed
Maintenance to Existing Shoreline Protection plan & 4 o-p Site Photos).
However, this single dune is not enough protection at this eroding beach. We propose a significant retreat project
and establishment of an additional 140 feet of vegetated dunes as a resilient natural buffer for storm damage and sea
level rise, as described herein. The parking area that is removed will be re-established over 375 feet from the beach.
It will also be established at an over 8-foot higher elevation. The northern most dunes in the restoration area will be
established at approximately 5 feet higher than the existing elevation. Even with a projected sea level rise of 3 feet,
this resilient project will provide protection to our infrastructure for over 50 years.
The Town has been expending significant efforts and funds trying to repair the parking area and protective dune after
storm events. At this point, the landing is suffering damage in even moderate storm events. Continued budget
issues have prevented the Town from implementing resilient changes to this and other landings that will reduce
3 Town of Brewster Green Infrastructure Project: Coastal Resilience at Breakwater Beach: RFR ENV 14 CZM 07
future expenditures for maintenance and repair. This grant opportunity presents a significant opportunity for the
Town to properly address this ongoing and increasing expense while protecting and enhancing the environment.
2. PROJECT DESCRIPTION AND PUBLIC BENEFIT: Details of the proposed green infrastructure project and
stages of work to be funded; how the project will improve coastal resilience immediately at, adjacent to, and beyond
the project site; and how the proposed project will benefit the public and public interests. (25 points)
The objective is to remove the vulnerable portion of the paved Town parking lot at Breakwater Landing Beach,
restore it to coastal beach and dune habitat, build a replacement parking lot using porous pavement at a more inland
and elevated area, and install green stormwater infrastructure (e.g., vegetated bioretention or vegetated swale) to
improve water quality for swimming, shellfishing and habitat. The Town is working with the Horsley Witten Group, a
well-respected local engineering firm, which has prepared a 10% design plan and proposal for this work [See
Engineered Plans and proposal from Horsley Witten Group (Att. 2.b Breakwater Conceptual Plan & 3 Budgets)].
Permitting: The proposed project will result in activities within coastal dunes, a regulated resource area under the
MA Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. Ch. 131 § 40) and the Code of the Town of Brewster Wetlands Protection,
Chapter172, Brewster Wetlands Protection By-law. The project will require permitting (an Order of Conditions)
through the local Conservation Commission and the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)
under a Notice of Intent (NOI) application. We do not anticipate additional State-issued Permit or State agency
review under the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (M.G.L. c. 30 §§ 61 through 62H, inclusive or MEPA)
through an Environmental Notification Form (ENF). It does not appear that mandatory review through an
Environmental Impact Report (EIR) would be required.
Description: The proposed green infrastructure concept consists of three main components:
1. Restoration of coastal habitat (Att. 2.b Breakwater Conceptual Plan)
• Remove existing pavement (~10,300 sf) within 140 ft. of beach.
• Restore a majority of this area back to a dune ecosystem, which will include bringing in sand from offsite,
installation of dune fencing, and the planting of appropriate vegetation (e.g., American Beach grass, Beach
Plum, Bayberry, and Sea-side Goldenrod). The northern half of this area will be elevated approximately 4 to
5 feet above existing grade, with the southern half about 2 feet above existing grade. This will add
resilience to storm events and sea level rise.
• An 8-foot wide path constructed of articulated concrete blocks (ACBs) will extend north from the remaining
pavement to the entrance of the beach. This will normally be sand covered. This will allow continued
vehicle access to the beach while not generating stormwater. These ACBs have proven to be very resilient
to storm events. As erosion affects the beach, segments of the ACBs could be removed from the north end.
• A seasonal boardwalk (Superdeck or equivalent) would be placed directly adjacent to the ACBs for foot
traffic and to provide handicap access to the beach area. This would be removed for the fall/winter and
replaced for the spring/summer season annually.
Public Benefit & Public Interests: Interpretive signage will be installed describing the retreat project; the benefits of
using natural systems to provide resilience; using elevation to resist inundation; and the habitat values of coastal
dunes.
The Town has been working with the adjacent neighbor to the west of the Landing. A vegetated dune and sturdy
sand fence are being constructed March 31-April 4, 2014, just north of the existing pavement (Att. 2.a. Maintenance to Existing Shorefront Protection plan) as the transition from a full revetment on the up-drift properties to the west,
to a dune habitat which begins on the neighboring property to the west and extends east across and beyond the
Breakwater Landing property. See attached photos of recent storm damage and the newly completed work (Att. 4 o-
p Site Photos).
The northern most 70 feet of former parking area will be filled with screened sand compatible with adjacent dune
deposits. This area will be elevated approximately 4 to 5 feet above the elevation of the existing pavement, which
4 Town of Brewster Green Infrastructure Project: Coastal Resilience at Breakwater Beach: RFR ENV 14 CZM 07
would be similar to the elevation of the dunes to the east and west of the parking area. This elevation will add to the
resiliency of the dunes. South of there we will keep the back dune area at a slightly higher elevation than the existing
parking lot. It is anticipated that the dunes will migrate south with prevailing winds.
The restoration area is approximately 140 feet by 83 feet. The sand to be placed is approximately 5 feet above
existing grade for one half and 2 feet for the second half, or a total volume of 1090 cubic yards.
• Beach grass plugs will be planted in the restored area in late fall and through the winter up until mid-April.
Dormant culms will be planted 8 inches deep, with two to three stems per hole, spaced 12 to 18 inches
apart. Additional native plantings will be included. In the back dune area, approximately 150 1-gallon beach
plum and 50 1-gallon bayberry plants will be included in the beach grass planting area.
• Town staff and volunteers will water the shrubs weekly, as needed through one growing season to ensure
viability.
2. Retrofit of remainder of the existing parking lot (Att. 2.b Breakwater Conceptual Plan)
• Remove ~2,800 square feet of existing pavement along the western edge of the remaining parking lot (~15
foot x 150 foot strip) and replace with a grass swale that will be used to convey road and parking lot runoff
into a bioretention facility. These Best Management Practices (BMPs) will be sized to manage at least 1 inch
of runoff and will be planted with beach-appropriate grasses, shrubs, and ground cover. This vegetation will
provide treatment by up-taking contaminants and nitrogen from runoff.
• A curb cut and paved flume will be used at the channel inlet, and a simple spillway would be provided for
overflow from the bioretention cell (frequent overflow is unlikely given the sandy soils).
• The remaining parking area will be restriped to accommodate at least 29 parking spaces (9 foot by 18 foot.)
including 3 handicapped spaces and at least two bike racks. The drive aisle width would be between 24 feet
and 31 feet (shown at 31 feet); a narrower width would provide more flexibility in the swale design.
• A location for trash dumpster/restroom facilities could be provided closer to the main entrance.
Public Benefit & Public Interests: Interpretive signage will be posted near the bioretention area and trail access
describing how natural systems can be used to infiltrate runoff and treat the excess nutrients generated by
stormwater.
3. Addition of pervious overflow parking: (Att. 2.b Breakwater Conceptual Plan)
• Construct an overflow parking lot (~ 8,600 square feet) in the existing meadow located in the southeast
portion of property. This parking area is proposed to be constructed with pervious asphalt and designed for
30 parking stalls (9 foot x 18 foot) with a 24-foot drive aisle width. At an average elevation of 20 feet and
native sandy subsoils, only an 18-24 inch reservoir course would be required below the porous asphalt
layer.
• Access to the overflow lot will be through a standard asphalt egress off of the existing entrance.
• The existing park and picnic area would be renovated.
Public Benefit & Public Interests: Interpretive signage will be posted near the entrance to the overflow parking lot
describing the use of elevation to provide resilience to sea level rise, and also to highlight the use of permeable
pavement to minimize stormwater generation. 3. CLIMATE ADAPTATION: Consideration of future conditions including projected sea level rise scenario(s). (10
points)
We reviewed the Massachusetts CZM Stormsmart Coast web site and materials prior to preparing this proposal, in
particular the StormSmart Coast Climate Adaptation:
Strategy 4. Redesigning to Accommodate Changing Conditions and Strategy 5. Enhancing Natural Storm-damage Protection.
The Massachusetts Climate Change Adaptation Report (MCCAR) identifies 12 strategies. Brewster’s proposal
specifically addresses several of these strategies in its approach.
5 Town of Brewster Green Infrastructure Project: Coastal Resilience at Breakwater Beach: RFR ENV 14 CZM 07
MCCAR Strategies addressed:
1. Combine mitigation and adaptation strategies;
3. Advance risk and vulnerability assessments;
4. Evaluate and prioritize adaptation strategies for implementation;
6. Improve planning and land use practices;
7. Enhance emergency preparedness;
8. Encourage ecosystem based adaptation;
9. Continue to seek expert advice and stakeholder input;
10. Ensure agency and regional coordination;
12. Start now, be bold.
We considered the effects a 3-foot sea level rise by mid-century would have on the infrastructure at this location, and
based the amount of retreat to allow over 50 years of protection for the parking area. As described earlier, the CZM
rate of erosion at the property is 0.56 feet per year (Att. 1.b Massachusetts Shoreline Change Transects), and we
anticipate this will likely increase with climate change.
4. TRANSFERABILITY: Transferability of proposed project including details of education and outreach plan. (10
points)
This project will work as a demonstration project on how retreat and elevation can be used to minimize the effects of
storm damage and sea level rise on coastal infrastructure. It will also serve to demonstrate the effectiveness of
natural dune systems in protecting public infrastructure. The Town will monitor the growth and health of the dune
system, and also evaluate the effect of coastal storms over time, using photo documentation and survey as needed.
This project will also pilot the effectiveness of a resilient articulating block system to provide emergency vehicle
access through a dune system.
The eastern most landing in Town is Crosby Landing, which is similar in that it has an extensive dune system
between the parking area and the beach, with a path through the dunes for foot traffic. The end product of this
restoration will be similar and should receive similar public acceptance.
A Brewster Coastal Committee, comprised of seven citizens appointed by the Board of Selectmen, will work closely
with the Project Manager and Project Team. The Town will have public outreach throughout the permitting process,
through Conservation Commission meetings, public updates from the Selectmen meetings, the Coastal Committee
and the Town web site. These meetings are also televised and can be viewed via the Town web site.
Education & Outreach Plan: The Coastal Committee’s outreach and public information activities will include:
• Two or more public informational meetings,
• Press releases,
• Town web-page describing the project and progress on specific tasks,
• Video coverage of meetings and of the project itself on our local cable channel and
• On-demand video off the Town web site;
• Public service announcements, and
• Outreach to specific landowner and community groups.
The Coastal Committee will also help design the special interpretive signs to build public understanding about the
nature and value of the project.
Sustained Benefits: The extensive public outreach activities detailed herein will provide Brewster citizens with a
better understanding of how the Town’s coastal resources have evolved and their current and future vulnerabilities to
erosion, sea level rise, storms and coastal change.
6 Town of Brewster Green Infrastructure Project: Coastal Resilience at Breakwater Beach: RFR ENV 14 CZM 07
Other sustained benefits include:
• Less public infrastructure at risk
• Reduced need for continued public investment in hard infrastructure (retreat and resilience designs)
• Enhanced value of ecosystems services provided by coastal resources (dune restoration)
• Guide for public for management of privately owned coastal properties (example projects to emulate)
• Improved water quality and reduction in maintenance costs through implementation of green stormwater
infrastructure (improved stormwater control, reduced maintenance)
5. TIMELINE: Detailed timeline with anticipated completion dates for the project. (10 points)
Brewster Green Infrastructure Project: Coastal Resilience at Breakwater Beach:
ACTION START INTERIM ACTIONS COMPLETION
Initial Task: Work with adjacent neighbor west
of the landing. Construct vegetated
dune/sturdy sand fence, just north of existing
pavement as transition from full revetment on
up-drift properties to west, to dune habitat
which begins on neighboring property to west.
Late March 2014 Monitor growth of beach
grass through
spring/summer 2014.
April 4, 2014
Permitting and Design (HWG)
April, 2014 Introductory Public
Meeting July 2014
Fall 2014
Project out to bid Summer 2014 Coastal Committee
meeting and press release
prior to bidding.
Summer 2014
Pavement removal October 14, 2014 End of October 2014
Grading and construction for overflow
parking lot & entrance
October 15, 2014 Video coverage to update
project website
End of October 2014
Placement of 29,375CF(1090CY) of sand
November 3, 2014 Video coverage to update
project website
November 14, 2014
Installing 160 feet of ACBs
November 17, 2014 Video coverage to update
project website
End of November
2014
Construction of stormwater BMPs
November 3, 2014 Video coverage to update
project website
November 14, 2014
Planting of beach grass and shrubs
Winter 2014 Video coverage to update
project website
Late Winter 2014
Dune fencing
Fall/winter 2014 Video coverage to update
project website
Before April 2015
Bike racks, additional signs, enclosure for
porta potty
Spring 2015 Video coverage to update
project website
May 2015
Pavement Markings
Spring 2015 Video coverage to update
project website
May 2015
Interpretive signage
April 2015 Draft signage presented in
at least two public
meetings summer 2014
May 2015
Installing seasonal handicap accessible
walkway to beach
Spring 2015 Video coverage to update
project website
May 2015
Watering plants, maintenance Spring 2015 Public participation Fall 2015
Town permit applications will be filed in early summer 2014, and will go out to bid in late summer 2014, with
construction to be done in fall 2014.
7 Town of Brewster Green Infrastructure Project: Coastal Resilience at Breakwater Beach: RFR ENV 14 CZM 07
6. BUDGET: Detailed budget and explanation of how the funding and other support provided by project partners will
ensure success of the project. The 25% in-kind and cash match that has not been used for other projects must be
documented. (10 points) Brewster Green Infrastructure Project: Coastal Resilience at Breakwater Beach:
Task Budget Cash Match In-Kind
Initial Task: Work with adjacent neighbor west of the landing. Construct
vegetated dune/sturdy sand fence, just north of the existing pavement
as transition from full revetment on up-drift properties to west, to dune
habitat which begins on neighboring property to west and extends east.
Although
occurring at site,
not included in
grant
Town
Match
Town
Match
Permitting, design, bidding (HWG) (Att. 3.a.1. & 2.)
$ 45,000
Pavement removal; construction of stormwater BMPs; grading and
construction for overflow parking lot and entrance; erosion control;
pavement markings; interpretive signage; dune fencing and bike racks
(includes 30% contingency)
$116,000
160 feet of ACBs (10- 8x16 foot mats) (includes 10% contingency)
$ 21,750
Seasonal handicap accessible walkway to beach (SuperDeck or
equivalent) 160 feet long, 5 foot wide @ $15.84/SF delivered (includes
10% contingency)
$12,675
1090 cubic yards of sand, delivered and placed ($30/yard) (includes
10% contingency)
$ 5,000 $31,000
Beach grass @$8,375, plus shrubs @$3,500, plus planting costs
$16,000
Construction Administration (5% of construction cost)
$ 12,250
Volunteer maintenance, watering of plants first growing season 100
hours @ $24/hour. Applying $400 to grant as remainder will be
conducted after end of grant during summer 2015.
$400
Project Management (Chris Miller, Brewster DNR)
$8,750
Subtotals $200,000.00 $59,675 $9,150
Project total $268,825.00
Match total (Cash and In-Kind) $ 68,825.00
CZM Grant request $200,000.00
Brewster Community Preservation Committee Request May 2014
Brewster Town Meeting (Att. 5. 1a Match Acknowledgement.)
$ 59,675.00
8 Town of Brewster Green Infrastructure Project: Coastal Resilience at Breakwater Beach: RFR ENV 14 CZM 07
7. PROJECT MANAGEMENT: Qualifications and experience of project manager and team. Resumes must be
submitted. (10 points) Project Management: Qualifications and experience of project manager and team.
The proposed Project Team will be led by Chris Miller, the Town of Brewster Natural Resources Department
Director, with the Horsley Witten Group: Rich Claytor, P.E., Michelle West, P.E. and Amy Ball, CWS. Town of Brewster:
Chris Miller, Brewster Natural Resources Department Director. The Town will provide over 250 hours
for Chris Miller as match ($8,750).
Proposed role: Project Manager/Team Leader and staff support
Qualifications: Mr. Miller has a B.S. in Wildlife and Fisheries Biology from the University of Massachusetts
(1990), and an M.S. in Chemical Engineering from Wayne State University (1995). Mr. Miller has a diverse
background with 24 years of experience in environmental consulting, technical consulting, wildlife biology, and
municipal service as a department head.
Mr. Miller is a member of the Stony Brook Salt Marsh Restoration Project Team that was awarded one of 50
NOAA-ARRA coastal restoration grants in 2009. In 2011 he was given a Coastal America Partnership award in
for the Stony Brook restoration project and NOAA’s Excellence in Restoration Award. In 2013 the Brewster
Conservation Trust selected the Brewster Department of Natural Resources as its Conservationists of the Year.
Chris, his department staff and their volunteer group of 150 people will be closely involved in the proposed
project. Chris was the Project Manager for the Route 6a culvert replacement project, the Freemans Pond culvert
replacement project, and the Stony Brook Mill Dam Rehabilitation project, all of which occurred simultaneously
with multiple engineering firms and contractors, including federal reporting to NOAA and NRCS.
Horsley Witten Group (HW):
Rich Claytor, P.E., President
Proposed Role: Principal and Quality Control
Qualifications: Rich Claytor has more than 30 years of practical experience in civil and environmental engineering
with specific expertise in water resources planning, design, implementation, research, education and training. Rich
has extensive experience and expertise in stormwater management design, implementation, program assessment,
policy and evaluation. Rich also is experienced in watershed planning, training and education; land use planning, site
design and research; storm drainage, erosion/sediment control, roadway design; and construction administration. He
has authored a variety of stormwater manuals and publications on stormwater policy, design and implementation,
and presented at dozens of training workshops and conferences over the last two decades. He has served as the
principal designer of stormwater management and stream restoration measures for a wide range of projects
throughout New England and the Mid Atlantic. (Att. 3 a.3 Resumes)
9 Town of Brewster Green Infrastructure Project: Coastal Resilience at Breakwater Beach: RFR ENV 14 CZM 07
Michelle L. West, P.E., Project Manager, Senior Ecologist
Proposed Role: Project Manager and Design Engineer
Michelle West, P.E., has twelve years of professional experience in civil and environmental engineering. Her
specific expertise is in stormwater management, watershed planning, hydraulic/hydrologic modeling, and low
impact development (LID) planning, assessment, design, and implementation. She has prepared materials for
and presented at several technical training workshops on stormwater issues, LID, and erosion and sediment
control (ESC). She also has experience with public education and outreach, particularly as part of municipal
NPDES Phase II stormwater plan implementation, as well as with geographic information system (GIS) mapping,
analysis, and modeling. (Att. 3 a.3 Resumes)
Amy Miller Ball, CWS, Project Manager, Senior Ecologist
Proposed Role: Permitting and Associated Dune Habitat Restoration
Qualifications: Amy Ball has more than 18 years of professional experience as a wetlands scientist and ecologist
specializing in wetland botany and ecology, rare species and wildlife habitat assessments, wetland restoration
and mitigation, environmental assessment and monitoring, and environmental policy evaluation. As a project
manager and senior ecologist with the Horsley Witten Group, Ms. Ball manages projects requiring inland and
coastal wetland resource area determinations, wildlife habitat assessments, impact mitigation, and regulatory
compliance. Ms. Ball also manages project permitting for projects requiring federal, state, regional, and local
permits pursuant to laws, regulations, and policies governing water resource and rare species protection. Ms.
Ball frequently appears before local conservation commissions and state and federal regulatory authorities as a
project representative or reviewing consultant, and has provided expert testimony in defense of a wetland
boundary determination and as a municipal consultant at Massachusetts Department of Environmental
Protection adjudicatory hearings. (Att. 3 a.3 Resumes)
8. PROJECT PARTNERS: Documented community and other support. (10 points)
Letters of support are attached from relevant public boards and committees, including:
Brewster Board of Selectmen, Brewster Conservation Commission, Department of Public Works, Brewster
Comprehensive Water Planning Committee, Brewster Planning Board, Brewster Town Planner, Brewster Community
Preservation Committee, Brewster Fire & Rescue Department, Brewster Police Department, Brewster Chamber of
Commerce, and Brewster Recreation Department (Att. 5. Letters of Support)
10 Town of Brewster Green Infrastructure Project: Coastal Resilience at Breakwater Beach: RFR ENV 14 CZM 07
LIST OF ATTACHMENTS:
Attachment 1: Maps:
a. Aerial View of Breakwater Landing b. Massachusetts Shoreline Change Transects at Breakwater
Attachment 2: Plans
a. Proposed Maintenance to Existing Shorefront Protection for Lieb Residence
(adjacent to west of Breakwater Landing & Beach) b. Breakwater Conceptual Plan – Horsley Witten Group
Attachment 3: Budgets a. Horsley Witten Group (HWG)
a.1. January 17, 2014 Retrofit Description & Estimate
a.2. February 19, 2014 Revised Cost Estimate
a.3. Resumes
Attachment 4: Site Photos a. Parking lot of Breakwater Beach: fall 2013
b. Breakwater Beach: Jan 3, 2010
c. Rebuilding/replacing Artificial Dune: January 2010
d. Winter Storm Results: March 3, 2010
e. Stormwater Erosion: March 3, 2010
f. Dune Restoration with Brandeis Students April 2011
g. Dune Restoration with Brandeis Student April 2011
h. Photo During Storm: winter 2012/2013
i. Post Storm: winter 2012/2013
j. Beach Dune Erosion: winter 2012/2013
k. North End of Parking Lot: winter 2012/2013 l. March 7, 2013: Additional Storm Damage
m. March 26, 2014: Storm Debris n. March 26, 2014: Storm wrack and Sand in Parking Lot
o. April 2, 2014: Rebuilding Sturdy Sand Fence
p. April 2, 2014 Section of Completed Fence Attachment 5: Letters of Support
1a. Charles L. Sumner, Town Administrator – Match Acknowledgement, Town Meeting warrant article 1b. Charles L. Sumner, Town Administrator – Notarized Signature
2. Letters of Support:
2a. Brewster Board of Selectmen
2b. Paul C. Wightman, Chairman, Brewster Conservation Commission
2c. Robert Bersin, Superintendent, Department of Public Works
2d. Lemuel Skidmore, MS, MPH, Chair, Brewster Comprehensive Water Planning Committee
2e. William C. Hoag, Chair, Brewster Planning Board
2f. Susan M. Leven, AICP, Town Planner
2g. Elliot G. Carr, Chair, Brewster Community Preservation Committee
2h. Robert Moran, Chief, Brewster Fire & Rescue Department
2i. Richard J. Koch, Jr., Chief, Town of Brewster Police Department
2j. Ms. S. Kyle Hinkle, Executive Director, Brewster Chamber of Commerce
2k. Ellen Bearse, Director, Recreation Department
BREAKWATER ROAD
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0187 NTown of BrewsterConservation Department
0 100 20050Feet
1 inch = 100 feet
Breakwater
Breakwater Landing
Town of Brewster, MA
Retrofit Concept
1/17/14
Objective: Shoreline erosion has led to loss of dunes
and deterioration of the parking lot. In fact, sand
deposition has occurred 100 ft into the parking lot.
The goal of this retrofit concept is to restore
protective dune habitat, provide comparable parking
amenities (maintain 59 spaces), improve beach
access, and minimize the use and impact of
impervious cover.
Description: The proposed retrofit concept consists
of three main components as shown in the attached
concept plan:
1. Restoration of coastal habitat
Remove existing pavement (~10,300 sf) within 140 ft of beach. Actively restore, or allow for passive
re-establishment, of a majority of this area back to a dune ecosystem. Depending on the Town’s
objectives, active restoration may include bringing in sand from offsite (or possibly from excavated
material at overflow parking—see below), installation of dune fencing, and/or the planting of
appropriate vegetation (e.g., American Beach grass, Beach Plum, Bayberry, and Sea-side Goldenrod).
A boardwalk or trail connecting the beach and the parking lot should be integrated with the
restoration design, as well as a bioretention facility (see below) and interpretive signage. Dune
restoration and access path construction are not included in the total cost estimate at this time.
2. Retrofit of existing parking lot
Remove ~2,800 sf of existing pavement along the western edge of the remaining parking lot (~15 ft x
150 ft-strip) and replace with a grass swale that will be used to convey road and parking lot runoff
into a bioretention facility. These BMPs should be sized to manage at least 1”of runoff and will be
planted with beach-appropriate grasses, shrubs, and ground cover. A curb cut and paved flume will
be used at the channel inlet, and a simple spillway would be provided for overflow from the
bioretention cell (frequent overflow is unlikely given the sandy soils). Interpretive signage should be
posted near the bioretention and trail access. The parking area would be restriped to accommodate
at least 29 parking spaces (9 ft x18 ft) including 3 handicapped spaces and at least two bike racks.
The drive aisle width would be between 24 ft and 31 ft (shown at 31 ft); a narrower width would
provide more flexibility in the swale design. A location for trash dumpster/restroom facilities could
be provided closer to the main entrance.
3. Addition of pervious overflow parking:
Construct an overflow parking lot (~ 8,600 sq ft) in the existing meadow located in the southeast
portion of property. This parking area is proposed to be constructed with pervious asphalt and
designed for 30 parking stalls (9 ft x18 ft) with a 24 ft drive aisle width. At an average elevation of
20 ft and native sandy subsoils, only a 18-24 inch- reservoir course would be required below the
The parking lot at Breakwater Landing is subject to
sand deposition and pavement deterioration due to
shoreline erosion and rising sea levels.
porous asphalt layer (cost estimate assumes 18 inch). Access to the overflow lot will be through a
standard asphalt egress off of the existing entrance. Interpretive signage should be posted near the
entrance to the overflow parking lot.
Cost Estimate: This is a planning level cost estimate for 10% concept design for the purposes of
completing a grant request application. Dune restoration and access path construction are not included
in the total cost estimate at this time.
Item Description Cost Estimate
Construction
Contract
Pavement removal; construction of stormwater BMPs; grading and
construction for over flow parking lot and entrance; erosion
control; pavement markings; interpretive signage; dune fencing;
and bike racks; includes 30% contingency
$116,000
Engineering and
Permitting
25% of construction costs; includes site survey & engineering;
assumes extensive permitting due to wetland/beachfront location;
certificate of compliance
$29,000
Construction
Admin
~5% of construction costs; including site visits at key aspects of
construction; review shop drawings and submittals; respond to
RFIs; project closeout and as-built drawing review
$10,000
Dune Habitat
Restoration
Not included due to uncertainties associated with Town
preferences (e.g., active restoration of 5 ft dunes which would
require renourishment vs allowing natural re-establishment; use of
volunteers, etc)
--
Total $155,000
MEMORANDUM
DATE: February 19, 2014
TO: Chris Miller
FROM: Anne Kitchell Horsley Witten Group, Inc (HW).
RE: Revised cost estimate for design and permitting of proposed Breakwater Landing
retrofit and dune restoration project
Per your request, this memo provides a cost estimate of $40,000 to be used in preparation of a proposal
for the COASTAL COMMUNITY RESILIENCE GRANT PROGRAM FY14 grant. In generating this estimate,
we assumed the following based on your 2/12/14 email:
1. HW services include 100% design, permitting, and preparation of bid documents for the retrofit of
Breakwater Landing (based on our 1/17/14 concept sketch), as well as permitting for the dune
restoration and beach access component as described in your email. Design and bid document
preparation for the dune restoration and access component will be completed by another firm.
2. This estimate includes site survey and engineering design, permitting, and preparation of bid
documents (Town to provide upfront material) and specifications.
3. The proposed project will result in activities within coastal dunes, a regulated resource area under
the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. Ch. 131 § 40) and the Code of the Town of
Brewster Wetlands Protection, Chapter 172, Brewster Wetlands Protection By-law. The project will
require permitting (Order of Conditions) through the local Conservation Commission and the
Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) under a Notice of Intent (NOI)
application. This estimate does not include any additional State-issued Permit or State agency
review under the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (M.G.L. c. 30 §§ 61 through 62H, inclusive
or MEPA) through an Environmental Notification Form (ENF). Based upon our understanding of the
project, it does not appear that mandatory review through an Environmental Impact Report (EIR)
would be required.
4. This estimate does not include construction or construction admin for the purposes of the CCR
Grant.
5. There are two items listed in your project description that are included within this proposal--
participation in at least one public meeting and preparation of a recommended maintenance plan
for Breakwater Landing stormwater BMPs.
1
6. We assume Rich Claytor, P.E. would be the Principal and quality control; Michelle West, P.E. would
be the Project Manager and Design Engineer, and Amy Ball will take the lead on permitting and
associated dune habitat restoration. Resumes are attached.
Please let us know if HW can provide support for other tasks listed in your proposal (e.g., mapping and
graphic design/production for Atlas). Thank you for the continued opportunity to assist the Town in
your endeavors and good luck with your application.
2
www.horsleywitten.com
Sustainable Environmental Solutions
Horsley Witten Group
Newburyport Sandwich Providence
Richard A. Claytor, Jr., P.E.
President
Rich Claytor has more than 30 years of practical experience in civil and
environmental engineering with specific expertise in water resource planning,
design, implementation, research, education, and training. Rich has extensive
experience and expertise in stormwater management design, implementation,
program assessment, policy and evaluation. Rich also is experienced in
watershed planning, training and education; water resource permitting and
research; water supply and wastewater design; land use planning, site design
and research; storm drainage, erosion/sediment control, roadway design; and
construction administration. He has authored a variety of stormwater manuals
and publications on stormwater policy, design and implementation, and
presented at dozens of training workshops and conferences over the last two
decades. He has served as the principal designer of stormwater management
and stream restoration measures for a wide range of projects throughout New
England and the Mid Atlantic.
REPRESENTATIVE PROJECTS
Roger Williams Park Water Quality Improvement Plan, Providence, RI:
Principal Engineer for this EPA funded restoration project to improve the
water quality and biodiversity conditions of the Park’s urban ponds. The
focus of this project is on the development of a water quality improvement
plan to include a watershed assessment including pollutant-loading
analyses, the establishment of long- and short-term water quality goals,
identification of feasible stormwater retrofits, assessment of in-pond
treatment options, and design, permitting, and construction administration
of the five highest priority stormwater retrofit BMPs.
Bridgewater State University West Campus Parking Improvements,
Bridgewater, MA: Principal-in-Charge for design and construction
administration for a 340 space parking and open space improvement project
that included environmental permitting, plan and specification documents
and construction oversight. The stormwater management system serving
the project was designed to incorporate a series of low impact development
treatment systems and incorporated stormwater monitoring components for
use by the University in their science courses curriculum.
Low Impact Design Stormwater Retrofit for Perkins Street, Peabody,
MA: Principal-in-Charge for the assessment and design for three separate
low impact development retrofit sites to help alleviate localized flooding,
enhance water quality, and improve safety conditions at the intersection of
Perkins Street and Allens Lane. The Plan includes a variety of innovative,
feasible and cost-effective stormwater practices constructed on publically-
owned park land and rights-of-way.
Samoset Street Outfall Assessment and Engineering, Plymouth, MA:
Lead Design Engineer for the completion of comprehensive stormwater
management improvements for the Town. The Samoset Street outfall
discharges into historic Plymouth Harbor, a 303(d) listed impaired water
body. Rich directed the assessment of existing road drainage conditions,
Areas of Expertise
• Wetland and Natural
Resource Area Assessments
• Environmental Permitting &
Compliance
• Smart Growth/ Low Impact
Development
• Watershed Planning &
Assessment
• Civil Engineering
• Environmental Engineering
• Stormwater Management
• Surveying
• Site Design
• Training
Professional Registrations
• Professional Engineer
Massachusetts, New
Hampshire, New York, and
Maryland
• Massachusetts Certified Soil
Evaluator
• LEED Accredited
Professional
Professional Affiliations
• Massachusetts DEP
Stormwater Policy Advisory
Committee
• Town of Sandwich,
Massachusetts Planning
Board, 2007 to 2011
• American Society of Civil
Engineers
Academic Background
Bachelor of Science, Union
College, Civil Engineering,
Concentration in Hydrology,
Hydraulics, Water Resources,
and Geotechnical Engineering
www.horsleywitten.com
Sustainable Environmental Solutions
Horsley Witten Group
Newburyport Sandwich Providence
Richard A. Claytor, Jr., P.E.
President
water quality sampling, soil evaluation, and design of roadway stormwater improvements and several
BMPs.
Centennial Park Detention Basin Retrofit and Wetland Restoration, Peabody, MA: Principal-in-Charge
for this project to develop a restoration plan that improves the wetland function and provide enhanced
stormwater management for the Centennial Park Industrial Park, an area that often experiences severe
flooding. Services include: design plans, environmental permitting, and assistance with construction
bidding, project management, and oversight.
Bare Hill Pond Village Stormwater Master Plan and Implementation, Harvard, MA: Principal Engineer
for the identification, assessment, prioritization, design and implementation of more than a half-dozen
“green infrastructure” control measures to retrofit stormwater management for the 100 acre village center
of Harvard, MA. Measures included an off-line submerged gravel wetland for enhanced phosphorus
treatment.
Roadway Drainage Improvements and Stormwater Treatment, Plymouth, MA: As part of a municipal
capital improvements program, with additional funding from the Massachusetts 319 Non-Point Source
Grant Program, Rich directed the development of construction-ready plans and specifications for three
water quality treatment sites and seven roadway stormwater and traffic improvement projects throughout the
Town.
Brackett Landing Mixed Use Development, Eastham, MA: Principal-in-Charge for the planning,
design and permitting of this small-scale traditional neighborhood design (TND) project in the Town
of Eastham, Massachusetts. The project incorporates a mix of commercial and residential lands uses, a
village common, and a pedestrian-friendly streetscape within the context of LID stormwater management
and advanced nitrogen removing wastewater management. Permits for water supply, wastewater and
stormwater management were secured though the Town of Eastham, and the Massachusetts Department of
Environmental Protection.
Chepachet Village Integrated Water Management Planning and Design, Glocester, RI: Project Manager
for a village scale wastewater and stormwater management study in Chepachet Village, Glocester, RI.
This project evaluated existing water management problems and developed neighborhood-scale solutions
designed to address flooding and water quality issues. Under his supervision, HW designed and oversaw
the installation of the first constructed stormwater wetlands designed to meet the criteria of the 2010 RI
Stormwater Design and Installation Standards Manual.
Thornton Burgess Society’s Green Briar Nature Center, Sandwich, MA: Lead designer for the site design
to accommodate a new educational building. Rich directed the design of a new gravel parking lot and paved
driveways for the new educational building. The project included the design of three bioretention facilities,
a water quality swale and permeable pavers in overflow parking areas. HW prepared construction-ready
plans and specifications, secured all relevant permits and provided construction administration services.
The firm continues to provide technical guidance and oversight on the maintenance of the LID system for
the Thornton Burgess Society.
Sawmill Pond Watershed Plan, North Kingstown, RI: Principal-in-Charge for the preparation of a
comprehensive watershed management plan to improve surface and ground water quality in Sandhill
Brook and Sawmill Pond. The project includes a stormwater management assessment for the project
area, identifying and conceptually designing stormwater retrofit facilities at key locations throughout the
watershed. These concepts were used to obtain grant funding, and are scheduled to be constructed in 2013.
www.horsleywitten.com
Sustainable Environmental Solutions
Horsley Witten Group
Newburyport Sandwich Providence
Michelle L. West, P.E.
Project Manager - Water Resources Engineer
Michelle L. West, P.E.
Michelle West, P.E., has twelve years of professional experience in civil
and environmental engineering. Her specific expertise is in stormwater
management, watershed planning, hydraulic/hydrologic modeling,
and low impact development (LID) planning, assessment, design, and
implementation. She has prepared materials for and presented at several
technical training workshops on stormwater issues, LID, and erosion and
sediment control (ESC). She also has experience with public education
and outreach, particularly as part of municipal NPDES Phase II stormwater
plan implementation, as well as with geographic information system (GIS)
mapping, analysis, and modeling.
REPRESENTATIVE PROJECTS
Stormwater Assessment for Bare Hill Pond, Harvard, MA: Performed
a watershed assessment and provided recommendations for stormwater
retrofits for eight target drainage areas tributary to Bare Hill Pond, which
suffers from high nutrient and sediment loadings, as well as invasive
vegetation. Designed LID practices such as gravel wetlands, swales, and
bioretention facilities to help reduce pollutant inputs to the pond. Six
of the practices were constructed in 2010, with two more completed in
Spring 2013.
Pilot Project for Meeting the Charles River Phosphorus TMDL for the
Spruce Pond Subwatershed, Franklin, MA: In cooperation with the
Charles River Watershed Association, HW provided technical assistance
and engineering support to identify restoration approaches to restore
hydrologic integrity and develop stormwater “green infrastructure”
retrofit concepts for the Spruce Pond Watershed. Michelle was the
Project Engineer, providing the following services: training for CRWA
staff on how to conduct a retrofit inventory; field reconnaissance
to identify retrofit sites; evaluation and conceptual design and cost
estimates for retrofit options; site selection support; and technical peer
review of CRWA’s assessment report.
Herring Brook Stormwater Improvements Project, Weymouth, MA:
The Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries identified adverse
impacts on the herring and smelt habitat in Herring Brook due, in part,
to excessive sediment loading from stormwater discharges. Michelle
conducted a watershed assessment of the 550-acre urbanized study
area using GIS and field reconnaissance. This assessment was used to
identify the most effective locations for stormwater retrofits and most
appropriate practice at each location. She was the lead engineer on the
BMP design for the top three priority sites, including an underground
sand filter and two gravel wetlands.
Stormwater Retrofit Fieldwork and Assessment for Peconic Estuary,
Long Island, NY: Performed a watershed field assessment and
provided recommendations for stormwater retrofits to address
Areas of Expertise
• Smart Growth/ Low Impact
Development
• Watershed Planning &
Assessment
• Geographic Information
Systems
• Civil Engineering
• Environmental Engineering
• Stormwater Management
• Site Design
• Low Impact Design
• Training
• Meeting Facilitation
Professional Registrations
• Professional Engineer, MI
Professional Affiliations
• Member, Conservation
Commission, Town of
Falmouth, 2007 to Present
• Waquoit Bay National
Estuarine Research Reserve,
Volunteer
Academic Background
Master of Science, Engineering,
College of Civil and
Environmental Engineering,
University of Michigan
Bachelor of Science,
Engineering, College of Civil
and Environmental Engineering,
University of Michigan
Bachelor of Science, School
of Natural Resources and
Environment, University of
Michigan
www.horsleywitten.com
Sustainable Environmental Solutions
Horsley Witten Group
Newburyport Sandwich Providence
Michelle L. West, P.E.
Project Manager - Water Resources Engineer
water quality issues in four pilot watersheds in the Peconic Bay Estuary region. Conceptually designed
management practices such as stormwater wetlands, swales, sand filters, and bioretention facilities and
ranked projects to aid local communities with implementing the most cost effective and beneficial projects
with limited funds. Prepared watershed assessment guide to support plan development for remaining
watersheds in the area.
Chepachet Village Integrated Water Management Planning and Design, Glocester, RI: Michelle was a
Project Engineer for this village-scale wastewater and stormwater management study in Chepachet Village,
Glocester, RI. The goal of this study was to resolve existing water management issues, using neighborhood-
scale solutions designed to address flooding and water quality issues. Michelle developed a conceptual
design of innovative stormwater solutions for village roadways, incorporating grassed swales, bioretention
systems, infiltration basins, and wet vegetated treatment systems into the existing stormwater management
system. In 2012, the wet vegetated treatment system concept was fully designed and constructed,
integrating stormwater management with the surrounding parkland, historical sites, and wetland areas.
Savin Hill Cove Sediment Erosion and Transport Assessment, Boston, MA: Michelle conducted an
assessment of potential erosion and scour in Savin Hill Cove resulting from proposed changes in stormwater
discharge from improvements associated with the Morrissey Boulevard Drainage Conduit Project. She
evaluated in-channel flows and velocities in the cove using the Storm Water Management Model (SWMM)
RUNOFF module and US Army Corps of Engineers Hydrologic Engineering Center River Analysis System
(HEC-RAS) model.
Upper Charles River Sustainable Stormwater Funding Assessment, Bellingham, Franklin, & Milford,
MA: Project engineer for the assessment and dissemination of a technical report documenting the
feasibility of widespread implementation of stormwater control measures to meet TMDL requirements and
the requirements for a sustainable funding source through a Stormwater Utility structure.
Roger Williams Park, Providence, RI: Project engineer for this EPA funded restoration project to improve
the water quality and biodiversity conditions of the Park’s urban ponds. The focus of this project was on
the development of a water quality management plan to include a watershed assessment including pollutant-
loading analyses, the establishment of long- and short-term water quality goals, identification of feasible
stormwater retrofits, assessment of in-pond treatment options, and design, permitting, and construction
administration of the five highest priority stormwater retrofit BMPs.
Rhode Island Stormwater Design and Installations Manual Update and LID Site Planning and
Design Guidance for Communities: Lead Engineer for this project that updated the statewide Rhode
Island Stormwater manual to incorporate LID practices for all new and redevelopment projects. This
strategy integrated site design criteria with structural stormwater practices for the first time to create a
comprehensive stormwater management approach. She developed and presented training workshops
for agency staff, as well as for engineers and developers, to describe the new manual and introduce new
concepts. She also helped prepare a companion guidance document for Rhode Island municipalities that
facilitates the implementation of LID at the local level.
Feasibility Study and Conceptual Design for Affordable Housing, Falmouth and Marion, MA: Assisted
with site evaluation and conceptual design for town-owned property in Falmouth and Marion. Feasibility
criteria included assessing wetlands, identifying priority habitat areas, and evaluating wastewater and
stormwater issues. Site layouts minimize impervious surfaces, preserve open space, and incorporate LID
stormwater management practices such as bioretention facilities and infiltration systems. Attended public
hearings to present alternative concepts and gather feedback from the community.
www.horsleywitten.com
Sustainable Environmental Solutions
Horsley Witten Group
Newburyport Sandwich Providence
Amy Ball has more than 18 years of professional experience as a wetlands
scientist and ecologist specializing in wetland botany and ecology, rare
species and wildlife habitat assessments, wetland restoration and mitigation,
environmental assessment and monitoring, and environmental policy
evaluation. As a project manager and senior ecologist with the Horsley
Witten Group, Ms. Ball manages projects requiring inland and coastal
wetland resource area determinations, wildlife habitat assessments, impact
mitigation, and regulatory compliance. Ms. Ball also manages project
permitting for projects requiring federal, state, regional, and local permits
pursuant to laws, regulations, and policies governing water resource
and rare species protection. Ms. Ball frequently appears before local
conservation commissions and state and federal regulatory authorities
as a project representative or reviewing consultant, and has provided
expert testimony in defense of a wetland boundary determination and as
a municipal consultant at Massachusetts Department of Environmental
Protection adjudicatory hearings.
REPRESENTATIVE PROJECTS
Provincetown Municipal Airport, Provincetown, MA (on-going):
Project manager for wetlands and wildlife components associated with
the implementation of the Airport’s Capital Improvement Program.
Project involvement includes wetland delineation of freshwater and
coastal resource areas, wildlife habitat assessments, and rare species
habitat surveys for four Massachusetts- listed species, as well as
assisting in the preparation of various reports and public presentations.
Responsible for assisting project team with permitting and coordination
with Federal, State, Regional and local regulatory agencies. Required
permits and review include: Section 404 Individual Permit and Section
401 Water Quality Certification (WQC) under the Federal Clean Water
Act; Coastal Zone Management (CZM) Consistency Review; a Decision
from the Cape Cod Commission Development of Regional Impact;
MESA Project Review under the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act
(MESA); and an Order of Conditions under the Massachusetts Wetlands
Protection Act, in addition to review under the National Environmental
Policy Act (Environmental Assessment) and the Massachusetts
Environmental Policy Act.
Sandy Neck Beach Facility, Barnstable, MA: Project manager
responsible for permitting the reconstruction of the existing bathhouse
and concession stand, construction of a storage garage, and extension
of a walking path to improve safety conditions along Sandy Neck
Road. Environmental constraints, including numerous coastal and
freshwater resource areas and rare species habitat within a Massachusetts
designated Area of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC) presented
design challenges for the design team and the Town to present an
Areas of Expertise
• Wetland & Natural Resource
Area Assessments
• Environmental Permitting &
Compliance
• Rare Species
• Coastal Resources
• Training
• Meeting Facilitation
Professional Registrations
• Certified Wetland Scientist,
(C.W.S.) No. 230, NH
Professional Affiliations
• Board of Directors,
V.P. for Education, MA
Association of Conservation
Commissions (MACC)
• Member, Society of Wetland
Scientists (SWS)
• Member, Association of MA
Wetland Scientists (AMWS)
Academic Background
Master of Science, Plant Biology,
University of Massachusetts
Bachelor of Science, Biology,
Muhlenberg College
Wetlands Wildlife of
Southeastern MA Field Course,
University of Massachusetts
Cooperative Extension
Marine Phycology Summer
Field Course, University of
Washington
Barrier Island Ecology Summer
Field Course, Duke University
Amy Miller Ball, CWS
Project Manager - Senior Ecologist
www.horsleywitten.com
Sustainable Environmental Solutions
Horsley Witten Group
Newburyport Sandwich Providence
Amy Miller Ball, CWS
Project Manager - Senior Ecologist
environmentally sound project design that is sensitive to the delicate ecosystem while meeting the needs
of the Town to provide an enjoyable and educational beach facility. Permitting requirements included
obtaining an Order of Conditions under the state and local wetlands laws as well as review under the
Massachusetts Endangered Species Act.
Fuller Brook Park Preservation Project, Wellesley, MA (on-going): Wetlands permitting manager for
the rehabilitation of Fuller Brook Park including improvements to an existing multi-use path, and a series
of mitigation of measures to restore habitat and hydrologic function to Fuller Brook and its tributaries.
Permitting and review required through several federal, state, and local regulatory agencies including a
waiver for the use of herbicides on select non-native invasive species on Town-owned property.
Permitting for Stormwater Retrofit Projects, Peabody, MA: As part of a comprehensive City-wide flood
management and stormwater improvements project, Ms. Ball was responsible for local, state, and federal
wetlands permitting of targeted LID retrofit projects in several locations throughout the City of Peabody.
Retrofit sites to date include four locations within existing but unmaintained detention basins within an
industrial park, and one within a brownfields site in the downtown area, each posing particular permitting
complications, requiring careful coordination between the City, the project team, and the permitting
agencies. Some of the retrofit projects permitted during earlier phases of this master plan project were
constructed in 2010.
Eel River Headwaters Restoration Project, Plymouth, MA: Responsible for wetlands permitting at the
State, Federal, and local levels for the precedent-setting restoration effort within the headwaters of the
Eel River. Restoration efforts include converting approximately 40 acres of retired commercial cranberry
bogs to a natural riparian wetland system and removing a portion of an historic stone sawmill dam, and
converting these areas into critical wetland and cold-water stream habitat. Restoration will create a more
natural hydraulic gradient, improving fish passage and overall water quality within the Eel River. Permits
included: Section 404 Programmatic General Permit (PGP) under the Federal Clean Water Act; CZM
Consistency Review; and an Order of Conditions under the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, in
addition to review under National Environmental Policy Act and the Massachusetts Environmental Policy
Act.
Bass Creek, Yarmouth, MA: On behalf of the Town of Yarmouth Massachusetts Wetland Restoration
Program (MWRP), responsible for coordinating permitting at the State, Federal, and local levels for the
restoration of approximately 35 acres of salt marsh by enhancing tidal influence to a degraded salt marsh
along Bass Creek, and restoring a more native plant community and improved water quality. Permits
included: Section 404 (PGP) and Section 401 (WQC) permitting under the Federal Clean Water Act;
CZM Consistency Review; a Chapter 91 Waterways License; MESA Project Review under MESA; and
an Order of Conditions under the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, in addition to review under the
Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act.
4a.The parking lot at Breakwater Landing is subject to sand deposition and pavement
deterioration due to shoreline erosion and rising sea levels.
4b. Breakwater Beach January 3, 2010
1 | Brewster Green Infrastructure Project: Coastal Resilience at Breakwater Beach RFR ENV 14 CZM 07
4c. Breakwater –Rebuilding/replacing the artificial dune in January 2010
4d. Breakwater March 3, 2010. Winter storms removed remnants of dune north end of
parking lot, causing the lot to be undermined. January 2010, sand was placed to provide
additional protection for the remainder of the winter. The sacrificial dune was destroyed;
additional parking area was lost. The parking lot elevation is low, and unless protected, we
may expect additional loss of pavement each year, in part due to the lack of sediment
transport from further west (revetments and groins).
2 | Brewster Green Infrastructure Project: Coastal Resilience at Breakwater Beach RFR ENV 14 CZM 07
4e. March 3, 2010: Stormwater currently collects in the northwest corner of the lot, causing
erosion of the dune as it moves north onto the beach. At times this forms a deep very large
puddle, forcing a hole through the dune over time. The grant proposal would eliminate the
direct stormwater discharge onto the beach, reduce the volume of stormwater generated,
and treat the stormwater through natural bio-swales or porous pavement.
4f. Breakwater Dune Reconstruction with Brandeis University Student Volunteers,
April 2011
3 | Brewster Green Infrastructure Project: Coastal Resilience at Breakwater Beach RFR ENV 14 CZM 07
4g. Breakwater Dune Reconstruction with Brandeis University Student Volunteers,
April 2011
4h. Winter 2012/2013: Photo during storm; waves impacting parking area. Wire in
foreground is from (former) coir logs at north end of parking area at property to west
(Lieb).
4 | Brewster Green Infrastructure Project: Coastal Resilience at Breakwater Beach RFR ENV 14 CZM 07
4i. Winter 2012/2013: Post storm parking area looking north.
4j. Winter 2012/2013: Photo at beach looking east. Extensive erosion to dunes.
5 | Brewster Green Infrastructure Project: Coastal Resilience at Breakwater Beach RFR ENV 14 CZM 07
4k. Winter 2012/2013: Looking southeast at north end of parking lot. Protective dune,
sturdy sand fence, coir logs and beach grass plantings eroded away and north end of
pavement is gone.
4l. March 7, 2013 showing additional storm damage to northern end of Breakwater
Landing. Dune subsequently rebuilt.
6 | Brewster Green Infrastructure Project: Coastal Resilience at Breakwater Beach RFR ENV 14 CZM 07
4m. March 26, 2014 storm left debris, wrack and eroded sand from base of dune at sturdy
sand fence located at north end of parking lot at Breakwater.
4n. March 26, 2014 storm left wrack and wind and wave born sand into paved parking
area at Breakwater.
7 | Brewster Green Infrastructure Project: Coastal Resilience at Breakwater Beach RFR ENV 14 CZM 07
4o. April 2, 2014 rebuilding sturdy sand fence and dune at north end of Breakwater
Landing. Beach grass planting to be completed later in the week.
4p. April 2, 2014 Section of completed sturdy sand fence(green oak timbers) prior to
burying with beach sand. Note coir envelope protecting adjacent house west of landing.
See Coastal Engineering plan for Lieb and Breakwater (Att. 2.a.).
8 | Brewster Green Infrastructure Project: Coastal Resilience at Breakwater Beach RFR ENV 14 CZM 07
Brewster Chamber of Commerce
PO Box 1241, Brewster MA 02631
T: 508-896-3500 E: info@Brewster-CapeCod.com
www.Brewster-CapeCod.com
March 18, 2014
Julia Knisel, Coastal Shoreline & Floodplain Manager
Executive Office of Energy & Environmental Affairs
Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management
251 Causeway Street, Suite 800
Boston, MA 02114
RE: Letter of support for the Town of Brewster’s proposal Brewster Green Infrastructure Project:
Coastal Resilience at Breakwater Beach to the ENV 14 CZM 07 Green Infrastructure for Coastal
Resilience Pilot Grant Program
Dear Ms. Knisel,
The Brewster Chamber of Commerce mission is to “strengthen and promote the economic feasibility,
cultural richness, social needs and environmental sensitivity” of Brewster. To that end, we are pleased
to support the Town of Brewster proposal “Brewster Green Infrastructure Project: Coastal Resilience at
Breakwater Beach”.
Businesses on Cape Cod recognize that the environment is our economy. This project will contribute to
the preservation of one of Brewster’s most popular beaches, Breakwater Beach/Landing. Restoration of
this and other Brewster beaches will provide a boost to the economic vitality of the Town and allow
both residents and visitors to be able to continue to enjoy these precious resources. The provision of
interpretive signage at the beach will help educate the public concerning the critical nature of coastal
resilience issues and explain the Town’s efforts to improve water quality for swimming, shellfishing and
habitat.
The proposal includes a significant coastal retreat design for Breakwater Beach, which has one of the
Town’s largest beach parking lots. The project also includes restoration of the former parking area back
to coastal dune habitat, as well as installation of green stormwater control. The engineering evaluation
of this beach will provide short and longer term recommendations for nourishment or alterations and
the effect this will have on the natural systems at Breakwater. The restoration/retrofit will provide
significant ecological benefits, including restoration of beach and dune habitat for wildlife.
Brewster’s 10 beaches are heavily used by both residents and visitors, with a summer population
estimated at 25,000. Breakwater also provides access for emergency response, to shellfish grants, and
for coastal nourishment projects. In recent years, storm damage and annual erosion rates of over 1 foot
have significantly impacted this Town parking area and beach. The Town has invested significant
amounts in recent years to repair this and other landings and the natural systems surrounding them,
including $2,000,000 in salt marsh restoration and coastal retreat projects.
Brewster Chamber of Commerce
PO Box 1241, Brewster MA 02631
T: 508-896-3500 E: info@Brewster-CapeCod.com
www.Brewster-CapeCod.com
Among towns on Cape Cod, Brewster is a proven leader in protecting and restoring its natural coastal
ecosystems. Over the last decade, the Town restored 11 acres of salt marsh at Quivett Creek; 10 acres of
salt marsh at Namskaket Marsh; 21 acres of salt marsh surrounding Freemans Pond, the Town’s only salt
pond; and a further 20 acres of salt marsh at Paine’s Creek in the Stony Brook Valley. In addition,
Brewster and its partners have preserved more than one-third of its land as open space for conservation
and water resource protection.
Sincerely,
Ms. S. Kyle Hinkle
Executive Director
April 2, 2014
Julia Knisel, Coastal Shoreline & Floodplain Manager
Executive Office of Energy & Environmental Affairs
Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management
251 Causeway Street, Suite 800
Boston, MA 02114
Re: Letter of support for the Town of Brewster’s proposal Brewster Green Infrastructure Project: Coastal
Resilience at Breakwater Beach to the ENV 14 CZM 07 Green Infrastructure for Coastal Resilience Pilot Grant
Program
Dear Ms. Knisel,
I am pleased to support Brewster’s proposal of a Brewster Green Infrastructure Project: Coastal Resilience at
Breakwater Beach to the Massachusetts Coastal Zone Management (CZM) Department for funding towards
the Town’s efforts to increase the resiliency of one of Brewster’s most popular bayside recreation areas.
The Community Preservation Act (CPA) is designed to help communities protect their most unique natural,
community and built features that give towns their special character, while advancing smart growth and
sustainable development. The fund must be used to acquire/create/preserve Open Space and Recreation
(passive) lands, acquire/preserve/rehabilitate/restore Historic Resources, create/preserve/support Community
Housing, and acquire/create/preserve/ rehabilitate/restore land for Recreational (active and passive) use.
The state recently changed the allowed uses of Community Preservation Committee (CPC) funds for
Recreation. This change has allowed our committee to approve a number of recreation applications for CPC
funds that restored or preserved recreation areas. Brewster’s Beaches and Landings are among the most
important recreation areas in Town and are the main reason for our ever expanding tourist economy. The
Town’s year round population of 9,820 increases to an over 25,000 seasonal population.
The CPC was pleased to approve the Department of Natural Resources application for matching funds
towards this CZM grant application and send it to the Board of Selectmen for inclusion on the spring 2014
Town Meeting warrant.
We based our approval on the Town’s integration of coastal science, data on our changing coastline, estimates
of future sea level rise, and the public participation process in guiding our planning and installation of a
sustainable program for this beach. This work will be led by the Town’s Department of Natural Resources and
will include the Conservation Commission, the Planning Department, the Department of Public Works, and our
Fire & Rescue Department as our Emergency Management Coordinator. The engineering firm we are
partnering with are experts in their field, and Brewster has a record of successful projects with them.
Town of Brewster
Community Preservation
Committee
2198 Main Street
Brewster, Massachusetts 02631-1898
(508) 896-3701 x 133
Fax (508) 896-8089
This Green Infrastructure Project at Breakwater Beach incorporates future planning for sea level rise and
protection of this beach area for the foreseeable future. A key facet of CPC approval is the fact that this beach
will not need to be the subject of repeated applications for CPC funds for more preservation needs, since
future needs are incorporated within this project. Applications need to be fiscally responsible to obtain CPC
support.
As the Committee responsible for approving such funding requests for Town Meeting vote, we believe the work
laid out in this proposal is critical to restoration of this popular recreational park, a vital asset to the economic
vitality of the Town. Brewster has demonstrated experience in managed retreat and coastal restoration. We
urge you to support this important proposal to build Green Infrastructure and Restore Breakwater
Beach/Landing.
Sincerely,
Elliot G. Carr
Elliot G. Carr, Chairman
Brewster Community Preservation Committee