Project Summary and Introduction

The Nantucket Island Land Bank (NLB) and the Town of Nantucket Sewer and Stormwater Department (TON SSD) are applying for funding from the SNEP Stormwater and Natural Infrastructure Grant. This funding will support the construction of Phase 1 of a restoration project at Lily Pond Park within the Nantucket Harbor Watershed. The project aims to expand the master planning process to other areas within the watershed, including a feasibility study to evaluate conditions and explore green stormwater infrastructure improvements and wetland/stream restoration opportunities.

Current Conditions and Problem Description
Lily Pond Park is a 6.5-acre parcel managed by the NLB, located west of downtown Nantucket. The park suffers from unmanaged stormwater runoff, invasive vegetation, and clogged drainage infrastructure. Drainage issues from the park affect Children’s Beach and the nitrogen load reduction targets set for it.

Site Selection
The project area includes all of Lily Pond Park and the contributing drainage area, which includes seven delineated sub-catchments. The project will focus on the North Liberty Street park entrance to improve the hydrologic, ecological, and recreational functions of the park.

Project Goals
Improve stormwater quality and management.
Address neighborhood impacts such as flooding and invasive control.
Diversify habitats through wetland restoration.
Enhance visitor experience with improved accessibility and educational signage.
These goals align with the SNEP Strategic Plan’s goals of achieving safe and healthy waters, thriving watersheds, and sustainable communities.

Benefits for Environmental Justice Communities
Nantucket has a significant Environmental Justice (EJ) population that will benefit from improved access to recreational areas, better water quality, and enhanced environmental conditions. The project will improve conditions at Children’s Beach and support the bay scallop fishery, which is culturally and economically important to the community.

Priority Topics

1. Stormwater Infrastructure and Roadway Runoff: The project will retrofit existing stormwater infrastructure to treat runoff and reduce pollutant loads.
2. Urban Resilience and Habitat Restoration: Green stormwater infrastructure will be implemented, and wetland habitats will be restored to support biodiversity and improve resilience.
3. Inland Wetlands Restoration: Approximately 2,500 square feet of wetland habitat will be restored, improving water quality and supporting native species.
4. Municipal and Tribal Planning: The feasibility study will guide the comprehensive planning needed for future stormwater management and resilience projects in downtown Nantucket.

Project Timeline
The project is anticipated to have a 4-year timeline. The feasibility study and master plan will be completed in the first year, with construction planned to start after Labor Day 2025 and complete by January 2027.