Halcyon Park Storm Drain Replacement Underway In New Rochelle

NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. – At long last, construction work is officially underway to improve the drainage system in Halcyon Park after it was hit hard by Mother Nature in recent years, flooding the area during heavy and occasionally moderate rainfall.

Construction is underway at Halcyon Park in New Rochelle.
Photo Credit: *Contributed*

Assemblyman Steve Otis, City Manager Chuck Strome, Mayor Noam Bramson ,Senator George Latimer, Deputy Commissioner Jim Moran, Council Member Jared Rice, Public Works Commissioner Alexander Tergis, Council Member Barry Fertel and Halcyon Park Neighbor
Photo Credit: *Contributed*

Zak Failla

09/24/2015 5:30 a.m.

The project is estimated to cost approximately $2.7 million, but most of that funding has been secured through state and federal grants – including $1.7 million from FEMA. It will involve replacing the antiquated storm drainage system currently in place and completely overhauling it.

According to developers with the project, enhancements with the new system include a new culvert, increased pipe capacities and new manholes and catch basins. Existing water and gas mains have already been relocated and sanitary sewer pipes will be relocated and replaced.

“This important project will protect dozens of homeowners from chronic flooding and will address one of the most serious safety hazards in our entire community,” Mayor Noam Bramson said when announcing the project. “I am grateful for the strong support of our entire legislative team and for the constructive involvement of so many Halcyon Park residents.”

New York State Assemblyman Steve Otis, who was credited - along with Sen. George Latimer - with securing much of the state funding, noted that it would be inequitable for the state not to pitch in its share of funding for the storm drain replacement project.

Halcyon Park, just south of Iona College, has been the subject of dangerous, frequent flooding in recent years as the East Coast continues to get peppered with seemingly annual “100-year storms.” The project will improve storm water flow and capacity and should reduce flooding frequency in the neighborhood.

“Eight years ago, Halcyon Park was under water. Many of our neighbors had to be evacuated due to flooding and sewage back up,” Halcyon Park Neighborhood Association President Nick Williams said. “Since then, with every heavy downpour, we have lived in fear of recurring flooding and sewage back-up.

“Now, thanks to the efforts of everyone here, we will see the day when these long-needed and expensive upgrades to our ancient infrastructure will safeguard our principal investment: our homes.”

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