'Really poor outreach:' Federal storm protection plan concerns Bronx River Alliance

A proposed plan by the federal government on how to protect the coastline from powerful storms is drawing criticism from the Bronx River Alliance.

News 12 Staff

Jun 19, 2019, 9:08 PM

Updated 1,771 days ago

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A proposed plan by the federal government on how to protect the coastline from powerful storms is drawing criticism from the Bronx River Alliance.
Superstorm Sandy devastated parts of New York and New Jersey when it hit in October 2012. A study by the Army Corps of Engineers says the area still isn’t ready if a similar incident happens.
A feasibility study is underway to prevent areas like the Long Island Sound from being vulnerable, but some advocates in the Bronx are deeply concerned with the government's approach.
According to the Army Corps of Engineers study, there are five alternative ideas to prevent a storm surge. Those plans include harborwide surge and beach restoration, surge gates, flood walls and levee systems, perimeters or no action at all.
"There's been really poor outreach. There has been very poor publicity. They've done very little to really engage the community," says Jessica Roff, Director of Advocacy and Engagement at Riverkeeper. 
Advocates with the group say there should be natural features made to protect the coastline, as to not cause damage to the environment.
No plan has been selected yet. When a tentative plan is announced, there will be another study to identify environmental impact. That will be released in 2020.
News 12 reached out to the Army Corps of Engineers for response.


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