06 Designing Resilience: Safeguarding the MTA Against Coastal Flooding
COMING SOON



Climate change presents an immediate and severe threat to New York City, manifesting in a myriad of weather-related hazards such as extreme heat, storms, and flooding. Among these challenges, the often-overlooked threat of underground climate change emerges as a critical issue, demanding a meticulous assessment of its impact on infrastructure, particularly subway systems. Originally engineered to withstand different climatic conditions, these systems now confront unprecedented pressures from extreme weather events exacerbated by climate change. As sea levels continue to rise and global temperatures climb, the risk of coastal flooding increases. Hurricane Sandy's destructive aftermath not long ago vividly underscored New York City's susceptibility as a coastal urban center, particularly its aging subway system.


A significant concern revolves around coastal flooding, which severely disrupts transportation networks and leads to excessively high repair expenses. Primarily triggered by storm surge—an increase in water levels propelled by the forceful winds and reduced atmospheric pressure of storms—coastal flooding presents a notable danger. This surge, compounded by factors such as high tide and wave energy, can swiftly erode coastal regions and inflict extensive harm on structures through the corrosive effects of saltwater.


This research endeavors to conduct a comprehensive examination of transportation network placement and associated costs in areas susceptible to coastal flooding. While the primary focus remains on New York City, insights from other U.S. cities and abroad will inform the development of urgent policies and design tools necessary to navigate the challenges of coastal flooding. The report will start by examining the historical choices made regarding the development of transportation networks around bodies of water, shedding light on potential consequences for future communities. It aims to serve as an urgent call for the swift implementation of proactive measures to mitigate the adverse effects of coastal flooding and retrofit vital infrastructure against the escalating risks posed by climate change. To ensure the project's efficacy, interdisciplinary collaboration and stakeholder engagement will be integral, fostering a holistic approach to resilience-building efforts.


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