The projects will replace aging concrete medians with engineered soils, underground stormwater storage systems and new drainage inlets. Native plants, shrubs, grasses and wildflowers will create green corridors intended to reduce flooding, cool streets and improve neighborhood aesthetics. The upgrades will also include ADA-compliant pedestrian ramps and detectable warning surfaces.
Project breakdown Whitestone: Medians along Francis Lewis Boulevard between 20th Avenue and 21st Road are nearing completion. The 1,105-foot project will capture an estimated 1.11 million gallons of stormwater annually and reduce combined sewer overflows into the East River.Forest Hills: Medians along Union Turnpike between Metropolitan Avenue and 71st Road are scheduled for planting this fall. The 3,245-foot project is designed to manage 2.43 million gallons annually, helping reduce overflows into Flushing Bay.Queens Village: Work on Springfield Boulevard between Lucas Street and Merrick Boulevard is expected to begin later this year. The 1,182-foot project will manage approximately 1.44 million gallons annually and help limit overflows into Jamaica Bay.
Officials described the initiative as an example of using nature-based infrastructure to address increasingly intense rainfall and strengthen neighborhood flood protection while making city streets greener.