2024 Flood Mitigation Projects Begin

Public Works and elected officials join at the start of construction for the first flood mitigation project located at Harmon Drive and Storer Avenue.
$10M invested for multiple projects across the City in 2024

The City of New Rochelle has announced the launch of the first flood mitigation project as part of its $10 million investment into the City's aging stormwater infrastructure. Located at Harmon Drive and Storer Avenue, the first capital improvement project marks the start of the City's long-term efforts to address and mitigate flooding issues and promote climate resiliency. Set for completion in the fall, the initial project will implement design and construction upgrades throughout the area's stormwater piping to reduce flooding impacts. Over a dozen additional projects are set to be implemented throughout the next 2 years.

As flooding incidents become more frequent due to heightened precipitation and aging stormwater infrastructure systems, the City of New Rochelle is fortifying its preparedness strategies amidst challenges posed by climate change. In 2022, the City undertook a comprehensive citywide hydrological and hydraulic analysis across its six watersheds, to identify drainage problem areas and potential drainage improvement projects. In September 2023, the study was completed and 170 mitigation projects were identified at a total estimated construction value of over $350 Million dollars.

"New Rochelle's comprehensive ten-year flood mitigation plan reinforces our dedication to sustainability and community well-being," said New Rochelle Mayor Yadira Ramos-Herbert. "With $10 million allocated this year, our City is at the forefront of proactive urban planning. This strategic investment in stormwater systems and drainage not only safeguards against flooding but also promotes a future where smart growth aligns with environmental responsibility and economic vitality."

In an effort to address and mitigate climate-driven flooding issues, the City has committed to actioning a multifaceted programmatic approach, including but not limited to the following:

• Citywide ten-year capital mitigation plan: As a result of the drainage study, the City has outlined and is currently executing a ten-year capital project improvement plan, starting with the project located at Harmon Drive and Storer Avenue.
• Enhanced stormwater maintenance program: The Department of Public Works (DPW) has expanded its stormwater and sanitary sewer maintenance capabilities with additional staff and equipment for catch basin cleaning. This initiative aims to shift from reactive to proactive stormwater management, boosting the frequency of catch basin cleaning and reallocating preventive maintenance efforts to flood-prone zones.
• Providing stormwater management resources for homeowners: DPW has developed a resource document that will offer guidance and best management practices for homeowners regarding infrastructure improvements such as cisterns, wells, permeable pavers and rain gardens.
• Design and construction of smaller localized flood mitigation projects: DPW will develop, design and implement smaller flood mitigation projects to address specific problem areas that may have not been captured in the City-wide study, such as extending drainage piping and reconstructing catch basins.
• Potential tax reduction for property owners experiencing flooding: The City is exploring ways to give tax relief for properties that have seen a history of flooding.

Acting City Manager and Public Works Commissioner Wilfredo Melendez said, "The launch of this first flood mitigation project underscores our unwavering commitment to enhancing our infrastructure Citywide, significantly improving resident quality of life. With an integrated approach including maintenance, management, and mitigation we are not just addressing flooding concerns but also paving the way for sustainable growth and environmental stewardship."

"Refreshing our infrastructure is not merely about upgrading drainage systems; it's about preserving the future of our neighborhoods," said District 1Council Member Martha Lopez. "By investing in these crucial projects, we are revitalizing stormwater systems to ensure sustainable development and enhance our community's resilience against natural disasters."

The City of New Rochelle scheduled a series of public meetings for residents and property owners on flood mitigation measures in each of the City's six Council Districts. Upcoming meetings, presentations from past meetings and more information on New Rochelle's 2024 flood mitigation capital projects can be found at https://newrochelleny.com/flooding.

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