New Report Release: Southwest Yonkers Green Infrastructure Feasibility Study
Building Climate Resilience in Southwest Yonkers
Groundwork Hudson Valley releases the Southwest Yonkers Green Infrastructure Feasibility Study, a groundbreaking report that lays out a vision for tackling urban flooding, combined sewer overflows (CSOs), and the impacts of climate change on local stormwater systems.
This study offers a roadmap for how green infrastructure (GI) practices, such as bioswales, porous pavement, and rain gardens, can transform our neighborhoods into healthier, more resilient, and more equitable places.
Key Findings
- Targeted Solutions for Southwest Yonkers
- A 52-acre sewershed around Riverdale Avenue was studied in depth to identify where green infrastructure would have the greatest impact.
- Smart, Science-Based Planning
- Using hydrologic modeling, stream flow analysis, and sewershed delineation, the report highlights critical opportunities to capture and treat stormwater effectively.
- Proposed Green Infrastructure Network
- Porous pavement to absorb runoff at the source
- A linear network of bioswales along Riverdale Avenue
- A downstream rain garden to further reduce pollutants and flooding
- Proven Impact
- Modeling with national tools (EPA Stormwater Calculator, Green Values® Stormwater Management Calculator) demonstrates the potential for significant runoff reduction and pollutant mitigation.
- Next Steps
- Confirming combined sewer areas
- Coordinating with stakeholders on long-term maintenance
- Engaging architects and engineers for design and cost estimates
Advancing Equity and Sustainability
By reimagining how stormwater is managed, this initiative addresses immediate challenges while advancing long-term sustainability and equity in Southwest Yonkers. The proposed approach prioritizes community needs and delivers meaningful environmental and social benefits.