The tide gate system in the Town of Fairfield is crucial to managing tidal flow within marsh and low-lying areas. Without tidal flow, the environmental health of the marsh, a natural flood buffer, can be severely compromised or overwhelmed. Due to aging infrastructure, RACE is working with the Town to assess and replace several tide gates, including the three deteriorated tide gates at South Pine Creek pictured above.

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Significant hydraulic modeling analysis of tidal flow was performed for varying storm and tide conditions as well as sea level rise predictions to determine the required pipe and tide gate sizes. Based on these investigations, RACE provided the Town alternative designs for culvert and tide gate device options.

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Following the selection of an alternative by the Town, RACE proceeded into design and permitting of the concrete headwalls, drainage pipes, tide gates, embankment riprap, and the tidal mitigation.  ​

Construction is near complete - three new self-regulated tide gates (SRT) and two manual sluice gates are being installed to improve the drainage system for tidal flow and storm surges. The SRT system allows for the passage of tidal water upstream and closes off flow once the water level exceeds a set elevation. This type of system allows for continued growth of wetlands upstream while minimizing potential flooding. Additionally, two manual sluice gates provide further drainage intervention during significant rainfall and coastal flooding emergencies.

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Upon completion of the construction this fall, the rough grading and wetland restoration will be the final phase in Spring 2026.

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Posted 9/24/2025

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