October 30, 2023

Watch a recording of this announcment on YouTube

Mid-Island’s New Creek Bluebelt Will Reduce Stormwater Flooding and Fortify Surrounding Communities Against Extreme Weather Due to Climate Change

NEW YORK–Marking 11 years since the week Superstorm Sandy—which killed 44 New Yorkers and caused $19 billion in damages and lost economic opportunity to the city—made landfall in the five boroughs, New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced the completion of a $110 million project to protect the Mid-Island section of Staten Island from flooding, and fortify surrounding communities against climate change-driven extreme weather events by significantly expanding the New Creek Bluebelt. Bluebelts—ecologically rich and cost-effective drainage systems that naturally handle the runoff precipitation that falls on streets and sidewalks—provide both critical support to Staten Island’s drainage infrastructure and beautiful open green space for residents, while creating diverse habitats for wildlife. The New Creek Bluebelt now covers 94 acres and drains a 2,249-acre watershed area.

Read the full Mayoral Press Release.