Beach 108th Street in New York City is part of a strategy to strengthen and promote a more resilient Rockaway West economy. Strengthening the community’s resilience was first proposed in New York City’s comprehensive climate resiliency plan A Stronger, More Resilient New York, and further developed by the Rockaway West New York Rising Community Reconstruction (NYRCR) planning committee.
Homes and businesses were destroyed during Superstorm Sandy in the surrounding area. Our team sought to implement solutions that improve sustainability and resilience while also providing a safe environment.
The project consisted of realigning roadway geometry to improve safety, a dedicated bike path in the center median, widened sidewalks, additional safe parking, and improved lighting for vehicles, bicyclists, and pedestrians. Additionally, stormwater drainage improvements were made that create green streets and address ongoing ponding that occurred at several intersections by capturing stormwater runoff. Our team used porous pavement along curb lines throughout the project corridor as an innovative solution to reduce stormwater flow into the city sewer system. This was the New York City Department of Design and Construction’s first use of porous pavement.