Staten Island Reporter

Today, Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis and a group of Staten Island elected officials, alongside representatives from the U.S. Army Corps, New York City Department of Environmental Protection (NYCDEP), and New York City Parks, gathered to mark the 12th anniversary of Hurricane Sandy. They provided updates on the first phase of Staten Island's East Shore Seawall project.

The initial phase involves a $132 million contract focusing on the SSSI Drainage Area E. This includes constructing large drainage ponds connected by culverts and various stormwater structures. The overall Seawall project covers earthen levees, floodwalls, and a seawall extending between Fort Wadsworth and Oakwood Beach.

After extensive collaboration with several agencies, including the Army Corps and NYCDEP, legislative measures were put in place to secure a 90/10 federal cost share for the project. Congresswoman Malliotakis stated, "As we commemorate Sandy’s 12th anniversary... we continue to make progress in building a more resilient Staten Island." She emphasized protecting the community and learning from past events.

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand noted the significance of starting construction for the South Shore Coastal Storm Risk Management Project’s Area E: "This critical project marks a significant step in protecting Staten Island’s communities."

Staten Island NYC Parks Commissioner Lynda Ricciardone highlighted ongoing efforts to include waterfront properties in future developments. Anthony Ciorra from the U.S. Army Corps acknowledged collaborative efforts among various governmental levels.

New York State Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton remarked on safeguarding against climate change threats: "It represents our ongoing commitment to investing in infrastructure that not only protects us today but also prepares us for tomorrow."

Assemblyman Michael Tannousis expressed optimism about revitalizing areas affected by Sandy through projects like the Seawall Project.

Assemblyman Michael Reilly reflected on how this signifies unity for Staten Islanders: "We come together as a community... we don’t want to have a repeat of what happened on that tragic day."

Assemblyman Sam Pirozzolo thanked those involved for their leadership: "I would like to thank Congresswoman Malliotakis for her incredible leadership..."

Other local officials echoed similar sentiments regarding resilience and preparation against severe weather events.

The initial construction phase will focus on detention basins and stormwater infrastructure with completion expected in approximately three-and-a-half years. Future contracts will cover levee construction, floodwalls, and an extensive seawall projected between late 2024-2026.