Governor Andrew M. Cuomo yesterday announced a $151 million state investment to build a multi-use elevated promenade to improve the resilience of Staten Island’s east shore and enhance waterfront access for surrounding communities.
The coastal resiliency project, a seven-mile long seawall stretching from Fort Wadsworth to Oakwood Beach, will protect communities from severe coastal flooding, while creating new wetland habitats and recreational amenities, the official statement said.
“This innovative project takes into account the diverse needs of the affected communities, protecting against future devastating weather events, enhancing access to the shore, creating vibrant, thriving wetlands and bringing peace of mind to those living along the Staten Island coastline,” Governor Cuomo said.
Throughout the process, the state has successfully urged USACE to incorporate elements that enhance access to the waterfront and offer recreational amenities to the community.
The seawall will be built up to 20 feet above sea level to protect against a storm at least the size of Sandy – the “300 year-level” storm, while incorporating wetlands and recreational options for a comprehensive coastal resiliency solution.
Leveraging the state’s previous investments in coastal resilience, the project also includes the construction of flood resilient wetlands in Oakwood Beach where the Governor’s Office of Storm Recovery purchased more than 300 properties after Superstorm Sandy.
A final design will be complete in the winter of 2018. Construction is slated to begin in 2019 and be completed in 2022.
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