Repaved ADA-compliant sidewalk and street following infrastructure upgrades. Image Credit: DDC.
On February 27, 2024, the NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), NYC Department of Transportation (DOT), and NYC Department of Design and Construction (DDC) announced the completion of an infrastructure project in Westerleigh, Staten Island. The project upgraded water mains and sanitary sewers, added new storm sewers and improved roads and sidewalks. The entire project cost the City $4.7 million which was $1 million less than predicted and the project was finished on time.
The project started in December 2021 and was designed to fix issues related to flooding on North Avenue, between Livermore Avenue and Neal Dow Avenue and on Forest Avenue between Livermore Avenue and Marianne Street. Overall, 1,300 feet of new storm sewers up to three feet in diameter were installed to alleviate flooding. Around 3,600 feet of cast iron distribution mains and 1,032 feet of 10-inch sanitary sewers were upgraded, and 10 new catch basins were installed with eight being upgraded.
In addition, 1,600 feet of curb and 16 corner pedestrian ramps were upgraded with three new ramps being added. All pedestrian ramps are now in accordance with ADA standards. Half a mile of sidewalk and 10,000 square feet of asphalt road pavement were restored, 13 fire hydrants were added, and new high visibility pedestrian crosswalks were implemented to improve safety.
DEP Commissioner Rohit T. Aggarwala said, “This specific project was initiated by residents reporting chronic flooding conditions to 311, and an investigation by our engineers found that there was an opportunity to add dedicated storm sewers to the area which would create additional drainage capacity and relieve flooding conditions. We are planning to invest more than $800 million for drainage upgrades on Staten Island over the next decade and when our partners at DDC complete these projects under budget, that means there’s more funding for additional work!”
NYC DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez said, “Improving critical pedestrian infrastructure upgrades on one of Staten Island’s busiest commercial corridors has long been a top priority for DOT and we are pleased to have collaborated with our sister agencies to bring this project to fruition. This project, in addition to advancing water main work, delivered upgraded pedestrian ramps, new sidewalks, and crosswalk markings along Forest Avenue which will enhance accessibility and public safety for the community, and we thank local residents and stakeholders for their advocacy.”
NYC Department of Design and Construction Commissioner Thomas Foley said, “This project, which was completed on time and $1 million under budget, will help curb major flooding issues that have affected this area, including water ponding in crosswalks. Improved street conditions make it safer for pedestrians and motorists alike, while upgrades to the area’s water mains and sanitary sewers mean homeowners and businesses will have long-term reliable service. We are delighted to complete this project successfully for the people of Westerleigh.”
New York State Senate Deputy Minority Leader Andrew Lanza said, “These infrastructure and sewer improvements will address flooding and enhance the quality of life for Westerleigh residents and businesses. I would like to thank DEP Commissioner Aggarwala, DOT Commissioner Rodriguez, DDC Commissioner Foley and the numerous workers for their dedication and hard work to bring these projects to fruition and under budget.”
By: Meg Beauregard (Meg is the CityLaw intern, and a New York Law School student, Class of 2024).
NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), NYC Department of Transportation (DOT), and NYC Department of Design and Construction (DDC): “City Installs New Storm Sewers and Upgrades Water Mains and Sanitary Sewers to Alleviate Flooding in Westerleigh, Staten Island” (Feb. 27, 2024).