The New York City Departments of Environmental Protection (DEP) and Design and Construction (DDC) have begun work on a $6.9 million water infrastructure upgrade in the Westerleigh neighborhood of Staten Island.
The project includes the installation of new storm sewers and catch basins, as well as the replacement of water mains, sanitary sewers, and fire hydrants. DEP provided the funding for the project while DDC is managing the construction, which began in January and is anticipated to be completed by winter 2023.
“Shovels are in the ground in Westerleigh and that means we are one step closer to an upgraded drainage system for the residents and businesses in the area,” said DEP Commissioner Rohit T. Aggarwala. “This $7 million investment will greatly improve the quality of life in the neighborhood, and I want to thank our partners at DDC for managing this important work.”
As part of the project, 1,500 linear feet of new storm sewers will be added to the neighborhood to alleviate flooding. To better capture stormwater and direct it to the new drainage system, 12 new catch basins will be installed, and eight old ones will be replaced.
“This project will bring a new peace of mind to residents who’ve dealt with long-time flooding and ponding in the area,” said DDC Commissioner Thomas Foley. “The neighborhood will receive 1,500 feet of new storm sewers, rebuilt and regraded streets along with new curbs and catch basins to capture stormwater when it rains. We are pleased to work with our partners at DEP to bring new infrastructure that will improve the quality of life for the residents and business owners of Westerleigh.”
Complementing the drainage upgrade are improvements to the drinking water distribution system. More than 3,500 linear feet of new water mains made from concrete-lined ductile iron, which is more resilient and less prone to breakage, will be installed to replace older cast iron pipes. Fire protection will be enhanced with the replacement of 12 old fire hydrants and the addition of one new fire hydrant, ensuring firefighters have ready access to the City’s water supply during emergencies. In addition, 1,100 linear feet of new sanitary sewers will be replaced.
“This upgrade for the Westerleigh neighborhood will provide relief to residents who need adequate street drainage in order to feel safe during a major storm,” said Staten Island Borough President Vito Fossella. “This area, like many on Staten Island, has historically seen the impact of flooding which damages properties and lives. I want to thank DEP Commissioner Aggarwala and DDC Commissioner Foley for their efforts to install new storm sewers and catch basins that will help protect this community.”
As part of the final street restoration, 80,000 square feet of roadway, 2,000 square feet of sidewalk and 400 linear feet of curbs will be reconstructed. The roadway, curbs and sidewalks will be graded to help guide stormwater to the area’s new catch basins and ensure adequate street drainage during storms. Compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) will be improved with the installation of five new pedestrian ramps and replacement of seven old ones.
