New York City is set to invest $390 million toward infrastructure upgrades in Bushwick, Brooklyn, to address chronic flooding and improve water service. Announced as part of Mayor Eric Adams’ City of Yes for Housing Opportunity initiative, the project will replace three miles of aging sewer pipes and nearly a mile of water mains, modernizing essential infrastructure in the area. Spearheaded by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the Department of Transportation (DOT), work will significantly expand sewer capacity while replacing all lead service lines at no cost to property owners.
The investment targets key areas of Bushwick, particularly Knickerbocker Avenue, where aging infrastructure has long struggled to handle stormwater runoff. The new sewer system will expand capacity in select areas by more than 850 percent, significantly reducing the risk of flooding for residents and businesses. This includes the installation of single-, double-, and triple-barrel box sewers measuring 10 feet by 9 feet, replacing outdated 7.5-foot-diameter pipes. In addition to improved drainage, nearly a mile of new water mains will be installed, offering better water pressure, enhanced fire protection, and reduced risk of water main breaks.
Beyond flood mitigation, the project includes Vision Zero safety enhancements for Knickerbocker Avenue. The DOT will redesign the street to improve pedestrian and cyclist safety while maintaining efficient traffic flow. Slotted manhole covers and nearly 400 rain gardens will be installed to further reduce street flooding by capturing and filtering stormwater before it reaches the sewer system. Newly implemented FloodNet sensors at key intersections will provide real-time flooding data, allowing city officials to monitor conditions and respond to potential emergencies.
Construction is set to begin in 2029, marking the largest infrastructure investment in Bushwick in decades. The funding aligns with the broader City of Yes initiative, which aims to build 80,000 new homes and invest $5 billion in critical infrastructure improvements across New York City.
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“nearly 400 rain gardens”
The idea for these is good, but in practice, many aren’t dug deep enough to actually pool any water. And then there is all the garbage that New Yorkers love to toss into them, plus the weeds. A better plan would be to cover them with metal grates as simple tree wells. This keeps more space on the sidewalk too.
Who are those people willing to stand next to Adams?
Can’t happen soon enough! Hope there isn’t another Ida between now and 2029.