NYC announces $68 million plan to reduce flash flooding with Brooklyn Bluebelt

New York City has announced a $68 million stormwater resiliency initiative aimed at reducing flash flooding in and around Brooklyn’s Prospect Park through construction of the borough’s first urban Bluebelt system.

The plan will use nature-based stormwater infrastructure to manage intense rainfall, protect nearby neighborhoods and reduce pressure on the combined sewer system. Improvements include enhancements to Prospect Park Lake and surrounding wetlands, along with new detention areas and green infrastructure designed to slow, store and absorb stormwater. The effort builds on an existing $20 million lakeshore restoration project and aligns with the city’s broader climate adaptation strategy.

“Today’s announcement marks a major step forward in protecting Brooklyn from the growing threat of climate-driven flash flooding,” said Mayor Eric Adams in a press release. “By investing up to $68 million to create Brooklyn’s first-ever Bluebelt at the iconic Prospect Park, we’re harnessing the power of nature-based solutions to strengthen the park’s lake and wetlands, and better manage intense rainfall.”

The project is expected to provide flood protection benefits for surrounding communities including Windsor Terrace, Kensington and Prospect Park South, while also improving ecological conditions within the park. Construction is anticipated to begin in 2029 and continue through 2032.