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New York Subway Flood Challenges and Solutions

The Wall Street Journal

The New York City subway system, built in 1904, is heavily affected by flooding due to its coastal position and age. Post-Hurricane Sandy, the MTA invested $7.6 billion in protective measures. Nonetheless, rainfall flooding remains a threat. Engineers like Eric Wilson are exploring an additional billion-dollar investment in new technologies. Measures such as pumps, flood logs, storm doors, and mechanical closure devices work to manage flood risks. Despite the implementation of these measures, more funding and advanced solutions are required to fully protect the subway from the increasing threats posed by climate change.

Highlights

• Post-Hurricane Sandy, the MTA invested $7.6 billion in flood protection.
• Rainfall and groundwater are significant flooding threats even without hurricanes.
• A network of 254 pumps removes 10 million gallons of groundwater daily.
• Flood logs and storm doors are installed at various stations for flood management.
• Mechanical closure devices protect ventilation systems during storm surges.
• The MTA seeks an additional $6 billion for further protective measures.
• Rising sea levels and worsening storms will challenge current systems.
• Outside initiatives such as permeable paving and rain gardens aid in flood prevention.
• Not all resilience measures, like the congestion charge plan, are securely funded.
• The effectiveness of flood protection measures will be tested in future storms.