The NLB is excited to advance plans to relocate the existing structures at 41 Jefferson Avenue in order to restore the public beach and expand parking. Planned improvements include:
- New accessible parking spaces
- Mobimats or a boardwalk for easier beach access
- A small dune system designed to help retain sand and protect the shoreline
These efforts aim to create a beach experience that is welcoming and accessible for all.
Project Details
Supporting Community Access & Sustainability
Expanding public access to the waterfront is central to the NLB’s mission. Acquiring the 41 Jefferson Avenue property allows us to significantly enhance beach accessibility for the Nantucket community. Our planning process focuses on four priorities:
- Reusing existing structures to support year-round housing
- Restoring public beach access
- Expanding public parking
- Promoting environmental stewardship
Relocating Housing Units
The site’s six housing units will be thoughtfully reused to support community needs:
- Five units will be moved to new locations for year-round housing
- Three units → 158 Madaket Road, where the Affordable Housing Trust plans to sell them to middleincome households
- Two units → 159 Hummock Pond Road, to serve as Land Bank employee housing
- The existing garage will be relocated on-site and repurposed for storage
These moves help address critical housing needs while freeing the site for improved public access.
Enhancing Beach Accessibility
Once the buildings are relocated, the property will be improved to create an inclusive beach experience. With its short, flat route to the shoreline, this beach naturally supports visitors with mobility challenges. Planned upgrades include:
- Two new ADA parking spaces added to the 22-space lot
- A boardwalk to the ocean
- Beach wheelchairs stored on-site
These upgrades ensure that community members of all ages and abilities can enjoy the waterfront.
Creating a Protective Dune System
The NLB is partnering with the Woods Hole Group to design a small dune system that will stabilize sand and protect the shoreline in the absence of buildings. The dune system will include:
- Sand fencing to trap and hold windblown sand
- Native plantings, such as American beach grass, to stabilize and build the dune
This natural system is expected to replicate the sediment holding function of the existing structures while enhancing beach habitat.
Looking Ahead
We are thrilled to create a permanently accessible beach environment that benefits the Nantucket community now and into the future. This project reflects the Land Bank’s commitment to:
- Public access
- Environmental sustainability
- Strong partnerships
- Community-driven solutions
We are especially grateful to collaborate with the Nantucket Affordable Housing Trust to support both housing needs and environmental goals—making the 41 Jefferson Avenue project a true community win.
TIMELINE
January 2026-May 2026: Project planning and procurement
April 2026: Project Kickoff. Begin site work for moving housing units off 41 Jefferson property to 158 Madaket Road and 159 Hummock Pond Road
March – May 2026: 158 Madaket Road Property Acquisition Closing and Site Preparation
May – June 2026: Move Off/Move On of structures completed
December 2026: All work completed