Innovative Resiliency Solution: FloodBreak Mitigates Flood Risk in South Boston

Client

Massport (Massachusetts Port Authority)

Location

Boston, MA

Installation Date

2019

Product

Passive Automatic Vehicular Floodgate

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FloodBreak worked with Arrowstreet and Suffolk Construction to provide innovative flood protection for the Parcel K development, a dynamic mixed-use waterfront property in South Boston. Completed in November 2019, the project marked our floodgate debut in Boston, a city increasingly focused on climate resilience and flood mitigation. This installation highlights FloodBreak’s innovative and reliable flood protection solutions tailored to urban environments and the hospitality sector.

Background

When Massport ( Massachusetts Port Authority) created a master plan for underutilized industrial real estate in South Boston, one of the projects was Parcel K, a mixed use development that includes a luxury apartment, Hyatt Place, retail/dining and an underground parking garage.  Working with the City of Boston and private developers, they incorporated innovative resiliency solutions to mitigate flood risk and protect the buildings for the future. They chose the innovative FloodBreak passive automatic flood barrier system to protect the underground garage 24/7 while allowing full access in dry conditions.

Solution

A FloodBreak vehicle floodgate measuring 25’-0” x 4’-9½” is now protecting the underground parking garage at Parcel K.  This innovative flood barrier system is designed to deploy automatically during flood events, passively lifted by the rising water, without human intervention or power.

Key features include: 

  • Self-Activating: Deploys automatically when floodwaters rise, ensuring 24/7 flood protection regardless of when the flood comes.
  • Long service life in marine environments: The components used in the fabrication of our floodgates are specified so that rust or corrosion are not a factor even in harsh environments such as road salt and salt water.

This project underscores FloodBreak’s ability to deliver tailored solutions in the Boston region. By combining functionality with innovative design, the floodgate ensures Parcel K remains resilient against future flood events. 

Results

Since its installation in 2019, the FloodBreak passive flood barrier system has provided Parcel K with the peace of mind knowing that they are protected 24/7 from flood risk without requiring people or power. 

See all of our work in action.