Beach Drive Coastal Resiliency
2026 Engineering Excellence State Finalist
Entering Firm: MSA Professional Services
Client: Village of Fox Point
In 2019, the Village of Fox Point faced a rapidly unfolding environmental emergency along Beach Drive. The picturesque two-mile corridor, with portions just 30 feet from Lake Michigan, experienced record-high water levels and powerful fall storms triggered severe shoreline erosion. Within weeks, up to seven feet of land disappeared in some areas, threatening not only the roadway but also vital utilities including sanitary sewer mains, stormwater systems, and lift stations.
Engineers transformed an environmental emergency into a resilient, long-term coastal solution.
MSA Professional Services played a central role in moving the Village from crisis response to long-term resilience. After temporary concrete blocks provided only limited protection, the team sought and secured a National Coastal Resilience Fund Grant. Through the grant, the engineering team performed wave-climate analysis and numerical modeling to understand the forces driving the shoreline loss. Their expertise guided the development of four concept alternatives, each balancing protection, infrastructure reliability, and environmental stewardship.
The final engineered design is a durable stone revetment system, crafted to withstand future storms, protect critical utilities, and rebuild lost green space. Engineers also integrated stormwater enhancements, native plantings, and improved public access, creating a shoreline that is both stronger and more appealing.
The project stands as a powerful example of engineering leadership in safeguarding communities against evolving coastal challenges.