New York Plans $20 Billion Battle Against Climate Change

On Tuesday, Mayor Bloomberg outlined an ambitious $20 billion plan to adapt New York City's infrastructure and built and natural environments to respond to the threats of rising seas and extreme storms.

1 minute read

June 12, 2013, 6:00 AM PDT

By Jonathan Nettler @nettsj

"Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg outlined a far-reaching plan on Tuesday to protect New York from the threat of rising sea levels and powerful storm surges by building an extensive network of flood walls, levees and bulkheads to guard much of the city’s 520 miles of coastline," report Marc Santora and Kia Gregory. "The cost of fortifying critical infrastructure like the power grid, retrofitting older buildings to withstand powerful storms, and defending the coastline was estimated to be $20 billion, according to a 430-page report outlining the proposals."

"In all, the report outlines 250 specific recommendations, including the adoption of adaptable flood walls and other measures to protect some of the worst-hit areas during the October hurricane."

"Mr. Bloomberg said that the price tag was high, but that the cost of not taking action would be greater. Hurricane Sandy did $19 billion in damage to the city, he said, and if a similar storm struck three decades from now, the cost could be $90 billion."

FULL STORY: Bloomberg Outlines $20 Billion Storm Protection Plan

Tuesday, June 11, 2013 in The New York Times

Environment Infrastructure Land Use New York climate change adaptation New York City Hurricane Sandy View More

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