Coastway

Coastway refers to a type of road or transportation corridor that runs along a coastline, designed to provide direct access to coastal communities and to accommodate the unique geographical and environmental challenges of marine shorelines. The term emerged in the early 20th century, reflecting advances in engineering that allowed for the construction of durable infrastructure on sandy and erodible substrates. Coastways are typically constructed with reinforced concrete or compacted fill, and often employ drainage systems to combat saltwater intrusion, tidal flooding, and erosion.

The design of a coastway must balance traffic efficiency with environmental stewardship. Key considerations include hillside stability, beach nourishment coordination, and the protection of marine ecosystems. Engineers often incorporate elevation grading and seawall components to mitigate wave action, while environmental assessments are conducted to preserve habitats for coastal flora and fauna. Many coastways also feature dual-purpose pathways for pedestrians and cyclists, reflecting a modern emphasis on multimodal transportation.

Examples of notable coastways include the Manchester Bay Coastal Highway in the United States, the South Coast Way in England, and the Makalu Coastway Project in Nepal, each illustrating different engineering responses to local geographies. In some regions, coastways serve as critical evacuation routes during extreme weather events, while in others they are key corridors for tourism, linking resorts and marinas.

Coastways play an essential role in regional development, providing safe, reliable travel while exposing planners to the complex dynamics of living along shifting shoreline environments. Ongoing research focuses on sustainable reinforcement techniques and climate-adaptive design, ensuring coastways remain functional amid rising sea levels and increasingly frequent storms.