The 351 Powers project seeks to build affordable housing on an empty lot in Mott Haven. Image Credit: HPD.

The South Bronx development will include approximately 80 new affordable homes and a building designed to withstand climate change. On August 18, 2022, the Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) began accepting proposals to build an 100 percent affordable, climate resilient housing project in Mott Haven, Bronx. Located on an undeveloped stretch of 351 Powers Avenue, the finished project will include approximately 80 new affordable homes. (more…)

The new floodgate next to Asser Levy Playground. Image Credit: Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office.

The playground and basketball courts feature resilient materials and play equipment designed to withstand inclement weather. On July 18, 2022, the first part of the $1.45 billion East Side Coastal Resiliency project was completed. The East Side Coastal Resiliency project was designed to increase the resiliency and sustainability of the infrastructure along the east side coast of Manhattan to battle rising sea levels and more frequent coastal storms due to climate changes. For CityLand’s prior coverage on the East Side Coastal Resiliency project, click here. (more…)

City and State officials and community stakeholders break ground on the Metropolitan Hospital Flood Wall Resiliency project. Image Credit: NYCEDC.

On May 25, 2022, the New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC), NYC Health + Hospitals, New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray, and community members commemorated the groundbreaking of a new flood protection system project at NYC Health + Hospitals/Metropolitan in East Harlem.  (more…)

Mayor Adams announces his administration’s climate resiliency team. Image Credit: Ed Reed/ Mayoral Photography Office.

The combination of agencies aims to reduce redundancy and enhance integrated work. On January 31, 2022, Mayor Eric Adams announced his administration’s climate leadership team and changes to the City’s executive agencies that handle environmental justice. Three appointments were announced: Rohit T. Aggarwala as the chief climate officer and Commissioner of the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP); Vincent Sapienza as the chief operations officer of DEP; and Kitty Charles-Guzman as the executive director of the new Mayor’s Office of Climate and Environmental Justice (MOCEJ).  (more…)

Slide from the Zoning for Coastal Flood Resiliency Plan proposal. The Plan has been approved by City Council. Image Credit: NYC DCP

The citywide zoning changes will help to keep New York City coastal residents and businesses more prepared for climate change. On May 12, 2021, Mayor de Blasio announced new zoning rules to help protect homes and business located in New York City’s floodplain from climate change. The Zoning for Coastal Flood Resiliency, approved by the City Council earlier that day, helps to withstand and recover from major disasters and rising sea levels. (more…)