Project Description

This project aims to improve the resiliency and sustainability of East Williamsburg, a community in Brooklyn Community District #1, NYC, facing climate-related threats. Through mapping, site visits, and stakeholder interviews, we identified three core values guiding our interventions: improving waterfront access, prioritizing public health, and greening the neighborhood.

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To address the diverse land uses, we divided the study area into Industry, TAMI, and Live-Work zones. Neighborhood-wide greening is crucial, with tailored solutions for each zone. Our proposal includes reclaiming Newtown Creek for public use through Sponge Parks and waterfront walkways, along with a district-wide green corridor on Metropolitan Avenue to promote zero-emissions mobility and cyclist safety.

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These recommendations form a connected pathway of green spaces, potentially known as “The Green Mitten,” fostering resilience and sustainability. By preserving existing land uses, enhancing public spaces, and addressing multiple challenges simultaneously, East Williamsburg can thrive in the face of future disasters. This project supports the community’s well-being and establishes a vibrant, sustainable neighborhood.