Sullivan’s Island Resilience & Sea Level Adaptation Plan

Weston & Sampson, alongside teaming partners Elko Coastal Consulting and McCormick Taylor, Inc., developed a resilience and sea level adaptation plan for this barrier island.

The island is vulnerable to the long-term effects of storm surge and sea-level rise due to its low elevation, aging infrastructure, and atypical orientation in relation to ocean currents and storms. The plan aligns with the goals and objectives of the town’s comprehensive plan, stormwater master plan, and other regional and statewide planning efforts.

The team analyzed the island’s flooding vulnerability during heavy rain, storm surges, and tidal events. They developed policy recommendations and infrastructure improvements, prioritizing them based on feasibility and effectiveness. Proposed resiliency strategies included nature-based solutions such as bioswales, rain gardens, permeable pavers, living shorelines, and wetland restoration. Key stakeholders were engaged through interviews and multiple public sessions.

Flooding impacts were visualized and provided to the public during engagement sessions, as well as on a web-based story map. The plan was accepted by the town in November 2025 and provides analysis of present and future conditions and site-specific recommendations for building resilience on the island until the year 2050. The recommended adaptation strategies range from community-wide to site level opportunities, that will help Sullivan’s Island continue to thrive for generations to come.