Brooklyn to receive 7 miles of porous pavement in $32.6 million stormwater project
(UI) — New York City's Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and Department of Design and Construction (DDC) have begun installing seven miles of porous pavement along Brooklyn roadways to better manage stormwater and reduce flooding.
The $32.6 million project aims to prevent 35 million gallons of stormwater from entering the combined sewer system annually, with construction expected to be completed by fall 2025.
“Climate change is bringing with it rainstorms that can overwhelm our sewers and cause flooding across the five boroughs, which is why we are investing in tools that will divert rainwater away from the sewer system, such as porous pavement,” said DEP Commissioner Rohit T. Aggarwala. “Brooklyn got hit particularly hard by Tropical Storm Ophelia last September and this new porous pavement will help to ease pressure on the sewer system and protect residents during future storms.”
The DDC is managing the contract for DEP. Commissioner Thomas Foley highlighted the benefits, stating, “This is the biggest porous pavement installation the city has seen. It will prevent millions of gallons of stormwater from overwhelming the sewer system annually. Porous pavement installations can prevent flooding without the need to go underground and expand sewers.”
Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso expressed support for the initiative, emphasizing its importance in combating the effects of climate change. State Senator Iwen Chu and Assembly Member Robert Carroll also praised the project for its potential to reduce flooding and protect New York Harbor.
Porous pavement allows stormwater to pass through and be absorbed naturally into the ground, reducing the amount that drains into the sewer system. This helps prevent flooding, sewer backups, and overflows into waterways. The pavement is installed along the curb line of streets, where stormwater typically drains towards catch basins, and can withstand the weight of vehicles, including trucks.
The DEP has been piloting various types of porous pavement for several years, but this is the first large-scale implementation. Soil samples are taken before construction to ensure the ground can absorb stormwater. Once approved, the existing roadway is removed along the curb line to a depth of about 24 inches, and drainage cells and stone are added for storage and structural support.
Later this year, contracts are expected to extend the installation of porous pavement to other Brooklyn neighborhoods and communities in the Bronx, with additional projects planned for Queens.
This initiative is part of NYC's broader Green Infrastructure Program, which includes curbside rain gardens, permeable pavers, green roofs, and underground storage. To date, DEP has built more than 13,000 green infrastructure installations, including over 9,000 curbside rain gardens.
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