Some big changes are coming to Staten Island, and Senator Charles Schumer, New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Commissioner Emily Lloyd, and Department of Design and Construction (DDC) Commissioner Dr. Feniosky Peña-Mora were all present Monday to break ground in celebration.
A new $22 million project will bring the first mid-island Bluebelt to the area which will build catch basins and wetlands to help collect and convey stormwater to where it can be filtered. The project is expected to significantly improve the area’s drainage system.
In addition to the stormwater filtration, large sections of phragmites, a common reed, will be replaced with native plants. Swapping out the phragmites for a more diverse collection of wetland plants will help reduce the risk of brush fires.
These are exciting first steps in helping Staten Island reduce flooding, protect wildlife and property.