The Climate Program Office’s Adaptation Sciences (AdSci) Program funded a groundbreaking project that explores the vital role of trust in fostering community acceptance of flood prevention strategies, particularly in coastal areas vulnerable to flooding. Despite the urgency of mitigating flood risks, gaps remain in understanding how institutional trust influences public support for flood protection measures. This innovative research aims to measure the strength of trust in various institutions and its impact on social acceptance of coastal flood adaptations. By utilizing a community-engaged approach, the project incorporates local values, concerns, and needs, ensuring that the strategies developed resonate with the people they aim to protect.