Construction can play a crucial role in combating the impacts of rising sea levels in New York City and surrounding areas through a variety of innovative techniques and resilient building practices. These strategies aim to protect existing infrastructure, create new developments that are more resistant to flooding, and enhance the natural defenses of the coastline.
One of the primary approaches is elevation. Raising new buildings and even retrofitting existing ones so that their lowest habitable floor is above the projected flood elevation significantly reduces the risk of damage from storm surges and high tides. This can be achieved using stilts, pilings, or raised foundations made of flood-resistant materials like concrete and treated wood. For critical infrastructure like power plants and water treatment facilities, elevation of key components is also vital to ensure continued operation during flood events.
Dry floodproofing is another important technique that involves making buildings watertight below the expected flood level. This includes using waterproof sealants and membranes on walls and foundations, installing watertight shields for doors and windows, and reinforcing walls to withstand the pressure of floodwaters. While this doesn’t prevent flooding around the structure, it can protect the interior and essential systems from water damage.
Wet floodproofing is an alternative approach that allows floodwaters to enter certain parts of a building, such as uninhabited basements or crawl spaces, but utilizes flood-resistant materials that can withstand submersion without significant damage. This method also involves installing flood vents to equalize water pressure on both sides of the walls, preventing structural collapse. Protecting service equipment like HVAC systems and electrical components by elevating them above the anticipated flood level is also a key aspect of wet floodproofing.
Beyond individual buildings, coastal infrastructure projects are essential for protecting entire neighborhoods and boroughs. These include the construction of floodwalls, seawalls, and deployable barriers like flip-up gates. Nature-based solutions, such as the creation or restoration of wetlands, dunes, and living breakwaters (artificial reefs made of rock or other materials), can also help to absorb wave energy and reduce the impact of storm surges while providing valuable ecological benefits.
Furthermore, improved drainage systems and green infrastructure play a significant role in managing storm water runoff, which can exacerbate flooding during heavy rainfall events. Implementing permeable pavements, rain gardens, and green roofs allows water to be absorbed into the ground, reducing the strain on sewer systems and minimizing localized flooding. Properly maintained gutters and downspouts that direct water away from buildings are also crucial.
Finally, smart building technologies and resilient materials are increasingly being incorporated into construction to combat rising sea levels. This includes the use of flood sensors that can trigger automated flood protection measures and the selection of building materials like concrete, brick, and certain types of insulation and drywall that can withstand prolonged exposure to water without degrading or fostering mold growth. By combining these diverse construction strategies, New York can build a more resilient environment capable of withstanding the growing challenges posed by rising sea levels.
The author, John Caravella Esq., is a construction attorney and formerly practicing project architect at The Law Office of John Caravella, P.C., representing architects, engineers, contractors, subcontractors, and owners in all phases of contract preparation, litigation, and arbitration across New York and Florida. He also serves as an arbitrator to the American Arbitration Association Construction Industry Panel. Mr. Caravella can be reached by email: John@LIConstructionLaw.com or (631) 608-1346.
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