Waterfront Expansion Plans

Bill de Blasio has announced a $10 billion initiative to extend the East River waterfront by 500 feet, aiming to protect lower Manhattan from rising sea levels and storms. With historical data showing over a foot of sea level rise since 1900, the plan includes creating grassy berms and removable barriers, highlighting the urgent need for innovative flood protection. Interestingly, the city’s foundation is tied to its rich oyster population, with an estimated 3 trillion oysters present before European settlement.