The Climate Ready Boston report, carried out in 2016, predicted that sea levels could rise by 9 inches (22.86 cm) by 2030 as compared with their 2000 levels, by 21 inches (53.34 cm) in 2050 and by 36 inches (91.44 cm) in 2070. In October 2017, the City unveiled an action plan to tackle the problem and provide short and long term protection for the waterfront areas most at risk.

Proposed solutions include the creation of public spaces to increase the amount of permeable land area, or raising the level of roads, parks, squares and promenades. The measures would also help mitigate other effects of climate change, such as heavy rain or extreme heat.