'Really poor outreach:' Federal storm protection plan concerns Bronx River Alliance

A proposed plan by the federal government on how to protect the coastline from powerful storms is drawing criticism from the Bronx River Alliance.

News 12 Staff

Jun 19, 2019, 9:08 PM

Updated 1,772 days ago

Share:

A proposed plan by the federal government on how to protect the coastline from powerful storms is drawing criticism from the Bronx River Alliance.
Superstorm Sandy devastated parts of New York and New Jersey when it hit in October 2012. A study by the Army Corps of Engineers says the area still isn’t ready if a similar incident happens.
A feasibility study is underway to prevent areas like the Long Island Sound from being vulnerable, but some advocates in the Bronx are deeply concerned with the government's approach.
According to the Army Corps of Engineers study, there are five alternative ideas to prevent a storm surge. Those plans include harborwide surge and beach restoration, surge gates, flood walls and levee systems, perimeters or no action at all.
"There's been really poor outreach. There has been very poor publicity. They've done very little to really engage the community," says Jessica Roff, Director of Advocacy and Engagement at Riverkeeper. 
Advocates with the group say there should be natural features made to protect the coastline, as to not cause damage to the environment.
No plan has been selected yet. When a tentative plan is announced, there will be another study to identify environmental impact. That will be released in 2020.
News 12 reached out to the Army Corps of Engineers for response.


More from News 12
1:55
Tribute held for survivors and victims of high-profile violent Bronx crimes

Tribute held for survivors and victims of high-profile violent Bronx crimes

1:54
Temperatures return to the 60s on Friday for NYC

Temperatures return to the 60s on Friday for NYC

0:24
Councilmember Marmorato meets with Home Depot staff to discuss security measures

Councilmember Marmorato meets with Home Depot staff to discuss security measures

2:03
Council Member Sanchez introduces building inspection, integrity bills after Billingsley Terrace collapse

Council Member Sanchez introduces building inspection, integrity bills after Billingsley Terrace collapse

1:34
MTA rolls out multibillion-dollar plan to protect transit system from major storms

MTA rolls out multibillion-dollar plan to protect transit system from major storms

1:53
Shop Mother’s Day Gifts – Exclusive Offers Up to 75% OFF!

Shop Mother’s Day Gifts – Exclusive Offers Up to 75% OFF!

0:30
Gov. Hochul announces funding to aid flood-prone communities

Gov. Hochul announces funding to aid flood-prone communities

1:35
NYPD: Multiple armed suspects wanted for string of robberies on Bronx train

NYPD: Multiple armed suspects wanted for string of robberies on Bronx train

2:02
Exclusive: Animal rescue group stepping in to help cats in danger of being mauled

Exclusive: Animal rescue group stepping in to help cats in danger of being mauled

0:05
Baseball's oldest living major leaguer, former Yankee Art Schallock, is turning 100

Baseball's oldest living major leaguer, former Yankee Art Schallock, is turning 100

1:54
Bronx Children's Museum offers familiar fun, valuable education for youth and families

Bronx Children's Museum offers familiar fun, valuable education for youth and families

0:19
NYPD: Woman wanted for punching another woman, stealing her phone in Highbridge

NYPD: Woman wanted for punching another woman, stealing her phone in Highbridge

2:07
Council Member Feliz plans to tackle rising vacant storefronts in the Bronx

Council Member Feliz plans to tackle rising vacant storefronts in the Bronx

2:04
Multiplex Cinemas in Concourse Plaza set to close next month

Multiplex Cinemas in Concourse Plaza set to close next month

1:47
Libraries could see new changes following no reversal of $58.3 million budget cut

Libraries could see new changes following no reversal of $58.3 million budget cut

1:46
NYCHA resident says boiler issue causing safety and health concerns

NYCHA resident says boiler issue causing safety and health concerns

2:25
Parked car left in shambles; video shows car smash into it multiple times

Parked car left in shambles; video shows car smash into it multiple times

1:42
New community center focuses on supporting former male inmates on road to recovery

New community center focuses on supporting former male inmates on road to recovery

1:35
The Bronx Museum of Arts new exhibit showcases NYC artists from fellowship

The Bronx Museum of Arts new exhibit showcases NYC artists from fellowship

1:59
NYPD: Fordham shooting kills 34-year-old man, leaves another man critical

NYPD: Fordham shooting kills 34-year-old man, leaves another man critical