New Yorkers were provided with an update by Mayor Eric Adams on the city’s efforts to protect public safety and property from flooding and the impacts of climate change. The administration has already invested over $1.2 billion in essential anti-stormwater flooding and public safety infrastructure across all five boroughs. These investments include traditional sewer upgrades, as well as innovative green infrastructure solutions. Studies have shown that such investments in anti-flooding infrastructure can prevent seven times the amount of damage compared to the initial investment.
Mayor Adams celebrated significant achievements in five major public safety projects today. The New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and New York City Department of Design and Construction (DDC) completed major sewer upgrades in College Point and Maspeth. These upgrades have tripled the drainage capacity in College Point and doubled it in Maspeth, effectively protecting New Yorkers from potential danger and preventing property damage.
In a remarkable feat, the city has also installed its 200th flood sensor in Corona, Queens this week. This achievement puts Mayor Adams on track to surpass his goal of 500 flood sensors well ahead of schedule. Additionally, the city has broken ground on its first Cloudburst project at the New York City Housing Authority’s (NYCHA) South Jamaica Houses. This project will divert nearly 3.5 million gallons of stormwater away from the sewer system each year. Lastly, the DEP has successfully transformed three acres of concrete medians in Queens Village. These medians now feature subsurface drainage chambers, engineered rock and soil, as well as ornamental grasses and perennial wildflowers. Together, they can manage a staggering 5 million gallons of stormwater, effectively reducing the risk of flooding in the area.
Mayor Adams emphasized that his top priority is to keep New Yorkers safe, which includes safeguarding them from the imminent danger posed by flooding. He stressed the importance of investing in both green and grey infrastructure, as well as flood preparedness measures, to save lives and prevent extensive property damage. Mayor Adams specifically highlighted the significance of these investments for low-income New Yorkers residing in low-lying areas, who often lack the financial means to rebuild after repeated flooding incidents. With a clear focus on public safety and protecting the wallets of New Yorkers, Mayor Adams underscored that these investments are crucial components of their strategies to address climate change, which is resulting in more frequent and severe extreme weather events.
“New York City is taking innovative measures to combat heavy rainfall and protect the city, according to Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. With a focus on maximizing every square foot, the city is transforming itself into a sponge-like environment. The incorporation of small green patches not only adds aesthetic appeal but also has the capacity to absorb large volumes of stormwater. Additionally, ponds and basketball courts serve a dual purpose by providing recreational spaces while also acting as reservoirs for rainwater. The use of porous pavement is another strategy employed to prevent pooling and flooding, as it allows water to be absorbed rather than accumulate on the surface. To address the challenges posed by severe storms like Ida, as well as more frequent ‘five-year’ storms, necessary sewer upgrades are being carried out. Alongside these infrastructure improvements, the city is also prioritizing education and information dissemination. FloodNet sensors play a vital role in providing real-time data, as flooding remains a pressing emergency that demands immediate action to safeguard lives while simultaneously planning for the future.”
“Harlem-Born Nobel Prize Winner Dr. Falkowski Discusses 2100 Harlem Mega Flood on The Danny Tisdale Show (Video)”
Dr. Falkowski, a Nobel Prize winner hailing from Harlem, recently appeared on The Danny Tisdale Show to shed light on the potential 2100 Harlem Mega Flood. During the interview, Dr. Falkowski shared valuable insights and knowledge about this pressing issue. The conversation was captured on video, allowing viewers to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and possible solutions associated with this alarming scenario.
“Our infrastructure was originally designed for a climate that no longer matches our current reality. However, we are actively engaged in the process of updating it in order to safeguard New Yorkers from the risks of flooding,” stated Rohit T. Aggarwala, the Chief Climate Officer and DEP Commissioner of New York City. “Through the implementation of innovative solutions like rain gardens and porous pavement, we are striving to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of our efforts in protecting the city’s residents from the increasingly frequent and intense storms that we are experiencing.”
“According to MOCEJ Executive Director Elijah Hutchinson, the city has made significant progress in flood mitigation and is actively involving the community in the process, three years after Hurricane Ida. He stated that their FloodNet sensors are capable of providing valuable information, such as suggesting alternative routes to school or alerting residents about the need to deploy flood barriers. Additionally, the city agencies will utilize this essential data for planning critical infrastructure projects in the future.”
“Our city’s needs are evolving as storms become more frequent and intense, and sea levels continue to rise,” stated DDC Commissioner Thomas Foley, highlighting the growing portfolio of climate-related projects. He further added, “In the previous fiscal year, in addition to our coastal resiliency efforts, DDC successfully installed 1,249 rain gardens and infiltration basins, along with an additional 20,478 square feet of porous pavement on city streets. These initiatives help manage stormwater before it reaches the sewer system. Moving forward, in collaboration with DEP, we have ambitious plans to implement more miles of porous pavement, undertake cloudburst initiatives, and establish new Bluebelts. DDC remains committed to adapting alongside the city’s changing needs.”
New York City Emergency Management (NYCEM) Commissioner Zach Iscol emphasized the importance of a comprehensive communication strategy that is inclusive of all residents. Being the emergency management agency for such a diverse city, NYCEM recognizes the need for a multi-channel, multilingual, and multicultural approach. Commissioner Iscol stated, “We are fully aware that flash floods can occur suddenly, posing a significant threat to both life and property. Therefore, we are utilizing every available resource, including NotifyNYC alerts, WhatsApp messages, drones, and invaluable partnerships with community-based organizations and elected officials. Our ultimate objective is to ensure that every New Yorker, regardless of their location or language, receives the essential information required to stay safe during emergencies.”
During the Adams administration, the city has made notable improvements to its drainage system by installing extensive new sewer lines. These upgrades have greatly enhanced the system’s capacity to handle the sudden and heavy rainfall that occurs during storms. Notably, the administration recently completed two major projects in flood-prone areas of Queens, namely Maspeth and College Point.
The Maspeth project, which cost $106 million, involved the construction of over a mile of new, large-scale sewers and nearly a mile of fresh water mains. To minimize disruptions to the local community, innovative construction techniques such as micro-tunneling were employed. These techniques effectively mitigated the adverse impacts of construction.
Similarly, the College Point project, with a budget of $132 million, included the installation of approximately 8.5 miles of new sewer lines and seven miles of additional water mains. Additionally, 300 new catch basins were added to enhance the system’s overall efficiency and effectiveness in managing stormwater runoff.
DEP is taking steps to improve drainage on the streets by installing slotted manhole covers. These covers serve as an additional drainage point, allowing street-level water to flow into curbside catch basins. This is particularly helpful in cases where the catch basin grate becomes clogged with leaves, debris, or litter.
Cloudbursts, such as those experienced during Hurricane Ida, can pose a threat to human lives, cause property damage, disrupt vital infrastructure, and contaminate New York’s water bodies. To combat these extreme rainfall events, the Cloudburst Program in the city employs localized grey and green infrastructure, open spaces, and other innovative approaches to absorb, store, and redirect stormwater. These measures work in tandem to store surplus stormwater until heavy rains subside and the local sewer system can effectively handle the excess water.
“… the city… was selected as a finalist for an additional $100 million in funding for initiatives in the Central Harlem area.”
Other Green Infrastructure
Several other types of green infrastructure can be implemented to enhance sustainability and environmental resilience. These include:
1. Rain Gardens and Bioswales: Rain gardens and bioswales are designed to capture and filter stormwater runoff. They use vegetation and specialized soil mixes to absorb and treat pollutants, reducing the impact on local water bodies.
2. Green Roofs: Green roofs are vegetated rooftops that provide multiple benefits. They help regulate building temperatures, reduce stormwater runoff, and improve air quality by absorbing pollutants. Additionally, they can provide habitat for birds and insects.
3. Permeable Pavements: Permeable pavements allow water to infiltrate through the surface, reducing stormwater runoff. This helps to recharge groundwater and prevent flooding. Permeable pavements can be used for driveways, walkways, and parking lots.
4. Living Walls: Living walls, also known as vertical gardens, are vertical structures covered in vegetation. They not only enhance the aesthetics of a building but also provide insulation, reduce noise, and improve air quality.
5. Urban Forests: Urban forests consist of trees and vegetation in urban areas. They provide numerous benefits, including shade, carbon sequestration, and habitat for wildlife. Urban forests can also help mitigate the urban heat island effect and improve air quality.
Implementing these types of green infrastructure can have a significant positive impact on the environment. They can help manage stormwater, reduce energy consumption, improve air and water quality, and enhance overall quality of life in urban areas.
Green infrastructure projects are designed to enhance stormwater management by providing storage and absorption capabilities for excess rainwater, thereby preventing it from overloading the sewer system. In a significant milestone, the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has successfully converted three acres of impermeable concrete medians in Queens Village into a green infrastructure system.
This system has the capacity to collect approximately 5 million gallons of stormwater from the surrounding area, playing a crucial role in mitigating flooding. The DEP plans to continue this transformative effort by converting additional large concrete medians in the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Queens into resilient green infrastructure medians starting next year.
In addition, the city has taken the initiative to install seven miles of porous pavement along the roads of Brooklyn. This innovative solution allows stormwater to permeate through the pavement and be naturally absorbed into the ground. With a budget of $32.6 million, this project aims to mitigate the risk of flooding, sewer backups, and waterway overflows. The completion of this project is anticipated by early 2026. Moreover, there are plans for similar porous pavement projects in the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Queens neighborhoods in the future.
The Adams administration is currently working on a new, three-acre Bluebelt in Staten Island’s Midland Beach neighborhood. Bluebelts are cost-effective drainage ponds that preserve the natural ecology of wetlands, allowing them to effectively manage the precipitation that falls on streets and sidewalks. This project contributes to the city’s existing network of nearly 100 Bluebelts, with the majority located on Staten Island. It also follows the completion of a $110 million expansion of the New Creek Bluebelt in October last year. Bluebelts play a crucial role in the city’s efforts to mitigate inland flooding, and the Adams administration is actively exploring potential locations in all five boroughs to further expand this successful network.
DEP and DDC have recently finished building over 900 curbside rain gardens and infiltration basins in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, and Whitestone, Queens. These rain gardens are expected to intercept around 58 million gallons of stormwater annually, preventing it from entering the sewer system and mitigating flooding, sewer backups, and overflows into waterways. The city has already constructed over 10,500 curbside rain gardens, with 2,300 completed during the Adams administration.
Flood Preparedness
Being prepared for a flood is crucial to ensure the safety and well-being of yourself and your loved ones. With proper planning and proactive measures, you can minimize the potential risks and damages caused by a flood. Here are some essential steps to help you stay prepared:
1. Stay informed: Keep yourself updated with the latest weather forecasts and flood warnings issued by local authorities. Pay attention to news and alerts to stay informed about potential flooding in your area.
2. Create an emergency kit: Assemble an emergency kit that includes essential items such as non-perishable food, water, medication, flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, and important documents. Make sure the kit is easily accessible and everyone in your household knows its location.
3. Develop an evacuation plan: Plan and practice an evacuation route with your family. Identify safe locations to go to in case of a flood and establish a communication plan so that everyone knows how to reach each other. Take into account the needs of children, elderly family members, and pets when creating your plan.
4. Secure your property: Take steps to protect your property from potential flood damage. Elevate important utilities and electrical systems, and consider installing flood barriers or sandbags around vulnerable areas. Clear gutters and drains regularly to prevent blockages.
5. Document your belongings: Take photographs or videos of your belongings for insurance purposes. Keep important documents and valuables in a waterproof and fireproof safe or store them in a secure off-site location.
6. Review your insurance coverage: Ensure that your insurance coverage includes flood protection. Review your policy to understand the extent of your coverage and consider purchasing additional flood insurance if necessary.
7. Stay cautious during a flood: If a flood occurs, prioritize your safety and follow the instructions of local authorities. Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters, as they can be deeper and more dangerous than they appear. Stay away from downed power lines and be cautious of potential hazards.
Remember, preparation is key when it comes to dealing with floods. By taking these proactive measures, you can significantly reduce the impact of a flood on your life and property. Stay informed, stay prepared, and stay safe.
To ensure that New Yorkers are well-informed and ready for the potential risks of flooding caused by heavy rainfall, the city has unveiled a new map. This map provides valuable insights into the extent of flooding that can occur at various levels of rainfall, taking into account both current conditions and projected sea level rise. In July 2022, the city introduced “Rainfall Ready NYC,” a comprehensive guide that emphasizes the shared responsibilities between citizens and the government in addressing the challenges posed by severe storms. Together, we can take necessary actions to safeguard our city today.
The administration is taking advantage of drones to effectively communicate flood warnings to residents in low-lying communities. This demonstrates the administration’s dedication to utilizing cutting-edge technologies to improve emergency response in the city. Drones offer the advantage of being able to target specific geographic areas. In the recent flood events of early August 2024, drones were deployed to flood-prone neighborhoods to broadcast pre-recorded warnings in both English and Spanish.
This summer, DEP has collaborated with elected officials, community boards, and local organizations to organize Flood Preparedness Town Halls. These informative events have been a platform for distributing approximately 2,000 flood kits to residents. The flood kits consist of flood barriers, sump pumps, and flood sensors, equipping residents with the necessary tools to safeguard their properties from the detrimental impacts of extreme weather. During these town halls, senior staff and engineers have been present to shed light on the city’s efforts in strengthening neighborhoods in the face of climate change.
So far, successful sessions have been conducted in Throggs Neck, Bronx, Red Hook, and Bushwick, Brooklyn, as well as Jamaica, Queens. Upcoming events are scheduled for September 17 in the Rockaways and September 24 on Staten Island. Additionally, DEP has distributed over 9,000 60-gallon rain barrels across New York City, free of charge. These rain barrels are simple to install and can be connected directly to a property’s gutter or downspout, enabling them to capture and store stormwater from rooftops. By collecting and storing this water, the rain barrels help reduce the volume of stormwater entering the city’s sewer system, thereby mitigating flooding while also safeguarding the health of local waterways.
“New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar announced that $1.2 billion has been invested in infrastructure to prevent a recurrence of the devastating flooding caused by Hurricane Ida, which claimed 13 lives three years ago. To safeguard the city, various measures have been implemented across all five boroughs, including sewer upgrades, installation of 200 flood sensors, the introduction of the groundbreaking Cloudburst stormwater management project, and the creation of 3 acres of bioswales. These initiatives aim to prevent the overwhelming of the sewer system, street and home flooding, and the resulting extensive damage. Rajkumar emphasized the importance of utilizing taxpayer dollars for flood hazard mitigation, as studies indicate that every $1 spent in this area can save $7 in recovery costs. Through these collective efforts, the goal is to ensure the safety and well-being of all New Yorkers, effectively halting the detrimental impact of future floods.”
“I am delighted to see Mayor Adams making a significant investment of $1.2 billion in crucial projects aimed at combating flooding and mitigating storm damage,” expressed New York State Assemblymember David I. Weprin. He further emphasized the urgency of such initiatives due to the devastating impact Hurricane Ida had on New York three years ago, resulting in loss of life and catastrophic property damage. Recognizing Mayor Adams’ proactive approach, Assemblymember Weprin shared his experience of attending a flood preparedness event organized by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). Homeowners were provided with informative presentations and essential tools such as sump pumps, flood barriers, and flood sensor alarms. These measures, combined with infrastructure upgrades targeting sewage systems and public safety, will effectively prevent the kind of destruction witnessed during Hurricane Ida. Assemblymember Weprin expressed his gratitude to Mayor Adams and his administration for their dedication to enhancing the safety of New York City residents.
New York State Senator Toby Ann Stavisky expressed her gratitude for the ongoing efforts to address flooding issues in the neighborhood. She commended the creation of green spaces to replace concrete medians, which was announced last year. Senator Stavisky emphasized the importance of dedicated funding for stormwater infrastructure in Eastern Queens, recognizing the commitment to mitigate flooding for the constituents. She extended her thanks to the mayor and the New York City Council for prioritizing these projects not just in this neighborhood, but throughout the city.
Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson stressed the need for innovative solutions to address the increasing impact of climate change on the city. She emphasized the importance of mitigating the risks of flooding in urban areas to protect lives and enhance coastal resilience in communities. Reflecting on the lessons learned from Hurricane Ida, neighborhoods like Kingsbridge, City Island, and Throggs Neck, which were severely affected, will greatly benefit from the citywide Stormwater Mitigation Efforts. Gibson expressed gratitude to Mayor Adams, the New York City Department of Environmental Protection, and the New York City Department of Design and Construction for their collaborative efforts and dedication in deploying necessary resources to safeguard residents and the city as a whole.