At a new park in New York, flood protection is hiding right under your feet

Wagner Park in Manhattan has been rebuilt with a hidden 18-foot flood wall, part of a larger $1.7 billion flood protection system for New York City. The park's elevation has been raised, incorporating a stormwater cistern for irrigation and an infiltration system to manage rainfall. The flood wall is largely concealed, prioritizing aesthetic appeal and user experience. The design team aimed to integrate flood protection seamlessly into the park's design, unlike older approaches. The renovated park features improved landscaping, native plants, and sustainable materials to minimize environmental impact. It also boasts expanded space for community events and a new energy-efficient pavilion. The project's design accounts for rising sea levels and projected flood levels in the 2050s. It's a response to Hurricane Sandy's devastation and the increasing likelihood of severe storms due to climate change. The park's flood protection connects to other similar projects, enhancing the resilience of the surrounding area. The project demonstrates that climate adaptation can create improved public spaces rather than solely focusing on purely functional infrastructure.