September 12, 2023

The New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is progressing on construction of two underground storage tanks that will capture millions of gallons of combined sewage and rainwater that would otherwise overflow into the Gowanus Canal during rainstorms. This $1.6 billion investment complements the US Environmental Protection Agency’s on-going Superfund dredging project and will significantly improve the health of the canal. The project will also create 3.6 acres of new public waterfront open space and amenities for the Gowanus community.

DEP broke ground on the project in March. This month, crews will begin construction of an underground concrete wall that will support the removal of soil necessary to build the first tank. The construction site is located along the eastern side of the Canal, bounded by Butler Street, Nevins Street and Degraw Street. In order to meet project deadlines mandated by the Federal Superfund Program, work will take place between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 2:00 a.m. for approximately nine months beginning on September 18th.

To reduce impacts to the surrounding neighborhood, crews will install sound curtains to the north, south and east perimeter construction fences to dampen noise and will spray water and foam on soil removed from the ground to reduce dust and odor.

Residents or businesses with any questions or concerns should contact the Community Construction Liaison, Valentina Mascaro, at GowanusCCL@johnson-asberry.com or at 934-216-0209. More information on the Gowanus Canal and the Superfund Cleanup can be found here.