The Point Association and Rhode Island House Representative Lauren Carson are asking residents of Newport’s Historic Point Neighborhood to participate in a new survey focused on climate resilience, flooding, and sea level rise.
The survey, open exclusively to Point Neighborhood residents, is designed to capture firsthand experiences and priorities related to stormwater flooding and sea level rise. Results will be used to inform future planning, resilience investments, public infrastructure improvements, and historic preservation discussions.
The effort grew out of a community meeting held last March, where residents gathered to discuss recurring flooding in the neighborhood and agreed that a survey would be a valuable next step.
“The Point is one of Newport’s most treasured and historic neighborhoods,” said Carson, who represents Newport’s House District 75 and lived in the Point for several years. “By hearing directly from residents, we can better understand the challenges they face and identify practical solutions to help protect the neighborhood for generations to come.”
The stakes are significant. The Point Neighborhood is widely recognized as having the highest concentration of original Colonial-era homes in the United States. More than half of its homes fall within FEMA-designated flood hazard areas, and Newport’s 2026 Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan specifically identifies the Point/Bridge Street area as particularly vulnerable to sea level rise and coastal flooding.
Residents can take the survey at surveymonkey.com/r/BDRPLT3. Questions can be directed to Rep. Carson at laurenhcarson@gmail.com or 401-523-1143.
