The first section of the East Side Coastal Resiliency (ESCR) project between East 15th and East 25th Streets has completed on Manhattan’s east side. ESCR, designed by BIG, MNLA, and AKRF, will protect and improve the resiliency of more than 110,000 New Yorkers, critical infrastructure, and numerous schools and libraries by employing raised parkland, floodwalls and gates, and berms while reestablishing public space and improving waterfront accessibility. “As one of the world’s great coastal cities, we know that stronger storms and rising seas are a threat, because no one knows when the next Superstorm Sandy will arrive at our doorstep; but New York City plans to be ready,” remarked Mayor Adams at the celebratory ribbon cutting ceremony. “Today, we are marking the completion of Phase One of East Side Coastal Resiliency – two months ahead of schedule and $10 million under budget. Once the entire project is completed, the protective gates can be deployed when a hurricane or storm surge is headed our way – protecting lives and New Yorkers’ wallets as we safeguard property. Protecting New Yorkers from climate change is a massive undertaking, with millions of lives and billions of dollars on the line – and we’re more than up to the task.” Construction on the second section of ESCR is underway and anticipated to be completed by the end of 2026.
