Hillsboro Beach is a tranquil residential community of slightly less than 2,000 residents which is 3.2 miles in length and situated on a very narrow peninsula less than 900 feet in width. To the east is the Atlantic Ocean, providing glorious sunrises nearly every day and immediate access to the recreational activities provided by the ocean. Immediately to the west is the heavily used Intracoastal Waterway, also providing inspirational sunsets and affording the residents still more significant opportunities to participate in afloat activities.
Given its location, its very extensive coastline, the fact that some portions of its only road are only inches above sea level, and that like much of South Florida it is situated on porous limestone bedrock, the Town is keenly aware of its relationship to the ocean. On one hand the Town has for decades been taking action to restrict beach erosion and, when necessary, restoring its beaches when erosion became too severe. On the other hand, demonstrating its empathy with the ocean, the Town has one of the best sea turtle nesting protection programs in South Florida.
In addition to its efforts to limit the impact of erosion on its beaches, the Town continues to focus on sea level rise through emphasis on seawall construction and by having the Florida Department of Transportation elevate portions of its only road, which periodically floods at high tide. Additionally the Town is a large contributor on a per capita basis to the Broward County floodplain study which will provide greater insight as to what needs to be done by the County, the municipalities and the residents to prepare for rising sea levels.
