Imagine the Wall, Charleston sets forth a vision for a series of interconnected, Nature-based Solutions to protect the Charleston peninsula from storm surge, adapt to rising sea levels and reduce flooding from stormwater. Initiated following the release of the Charleston Peninsula Coastal Flood Risk Management Study by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), the vision proposes a protection system that combines natural elements with structural systems that respond to the local conditions of Charleston’s varied shoreline and urban fabric.
Built on the USACE’s report, the team’s solutions serve the idea of nature-based design that combines hard engineering and traditional construction materials with ecological forms such as marshes and oyster reefs. The combined approach offers reduced maintenance costs and living systems that can respond dynamically to future conditions, benefiting both the community and the surrounding natural environment. The proposal also emphasizes multi-functional components by integrating flood protection with green infrastructure, ecological enhancement, and dynamic public space with increased waterfront access in addition to providing flood protection and stormwater management.
The vision proposal intends to broaden the conversation about Charleston’s “Sea Wall” and perimeter protection and initiate discussions between stakeholders that will guide decision making and the creation of a contextual and nature-based protection plan.
Find more about the proposal here.
Status: Unbuilt
