5 foot Sea Level Rise
The chart to the left depicts what Atlantic City is going to look like in 2060. The water level is set to rise 5 feet by that point and will put the majority of the coast underwater. Although the beach itself will not be as underwater, the flooding will increase and the roadways leading to Atlantic City will be completely submerged.
What's at Risk in New Jersey?
There’s a lot at risk from sea level rise and flooding in New Jersey, especially because the state has 141 miles of oceanfront that is host to not only cities and towns, but a complex ecosystem that is home to many species of wildlife. As sea levels continue to rise, some species are losing their habitats and face declining numbers. In addition to the oceanfront beaches that face the threat of erosion from increased ocean water levels, many bay communities are at risk. Many of Delaware Bay’s beaches are narrow, with wetlands immediately inland and could face land loss
Amid rising seas, Atlantic City has no plans for retreat
City leaders have no plans to take state offers to buy and demolish homes in flood-prone areas, according to Rutala.
Officials are spending $100 million, from 2016 through next year, to “fortify and armor” the city from rising sea levels by installing sea walls, pump stations and bulkheads, according to Rutala. Unseen by most tourists, a newly built pump station in Fisherman’s Park pushes ocean water that has come ashore back into the bay. It is common to hear construction crews at work building structures with entrances elevated to strict new height requirements.
