Hill Neighborhood Green Infrastructure Master Planning

Funded through the Massachusetts Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) Program

The Town of Montague is advancing a climate resilience initiative focused on the Hill Neighborhood in Turners Falls. Much of Turners Falls is designated as an Environmental Justice community, underscoring the importance of equitable climate adaptation and infrastructure investment.

Why This Project Matters

The Hill neighborhood sits on elevated terrain with sandy soils that naturally drain downhill toward the Connecticut River. As extreme rainfall events have become more frequent and intense due to climate change, the Town has experienced growing concerns about stormwater runoff, erosion, and infrastructure vulnerability.

In recent years, heavy rain events have led to:

• Increased erosion along steep slopes

• Strain on local drainage systems

• Risk of roadway washouts

• Temporary road closures

Protecting public safety, maintaining reliable access to homes, and safeguarding infrastructure are top priorities of this project.

Areas of Concern

Oakman Street (West Side of the Hill)
Stormwater flows downhill from Oakman Street toward the Thomas Memorial Golf Course and eventually into a drainage channel constructed along Montague City Road with support from a FEMA grant. Continued erosion in this area poses a risk that severe rainfall could undermine the roadway, potentially making it impassable and restricting access to nearby residences.

Millers Falls Road & Eastern Slopes
On the eastern side of the Hill, several residential streets sit directly above the Connecticut River. In August 2020, a significant washout forced the temporary closure of a section of Millers Falls Road and required engineered repairs. Similar vulnerabilities remain in steeply sloped areas adjacent to the River.

Project Goals

Through MVP funding, the Town aims to:

• Evaluate stormwater patterns and erosion risks in the Hill neighborhood

• Identify green infrastructure solutions to better manage runoff

• Improve slope stabilization and drainage systems

• Increase resilience to extreme weather events

• Protect critical transportation routes and residential access

Green infrastructure strategies may include nature-based solutions such as enhanced drainage design, stormwater infiltration practices, slope stabilization, and vegetation improvements to slow and absorb runoff before it causes damage.

Learn More

Residents are encouraged to stay engaged as this project moves forward. Updates, planning materials, and opportunities for public input will be shared on this page as they become available.

This project reflects the Town’s commitment to proactive climate adaptation, infrastructure protection, and environmental justice for all residents.

Upcoming Events

• Neighborhood Focus Group Meeting @ Sheffield Elementary School: Thursday, March 12 at 6pm
• Community Design Workshop @ Shea Theater: Monday, April 13 from 4:30-6pm; Thursday, April 16 from 6-7:30pm
• Demonstration Rain Garden Installation @ Sheffield Elementary School: Date and Time TBD

Please also feel free to share any comments or feedback about the project or related areas of concern via this form: https://forms.gle/6ftaeR9UUN36bes27