NYC’s Flood Risk Crisis: 80,000 Homes at Risk by 2040
NEW YORK – A concerning new report has emerged from the Regional Plan Association (RPA), highlighting the potential loss of 82,000 housing units in the New York metropolitan area by 2040. This projected loss is attributed to rising sea levels and increased flooding, compounding an ongoing housing shortage in the region.
The Scope of the Threat
The RPA’s assessment forecasts that not only will homes be lost, but approximately 77,300 acres of residentially zoned land, making up about 10.5% of such land in New York City, Long Island, and Westchester, could also be vulnerable to flooding. By 2070, this figure could potentially double if current climate patterns persist.
Communities in Peril
Neighborhoods most susceptible to flooding include:
- Rockaways
- Canarsie
- South Ozone Park
In the suburbs, towns such as Hempstead, Babylon, Islip, and Brookhaven are each predicted to face significant losses, potentially exceeding 6,000 housing units.
Key Statistics
- 82,000 homes at risk of flooding by 2040
- 1.26 million new housing units required by 2040
- 680,000-unit housing deficit under current zoning regulations
- 1.6 million residents could be living in flood-prone areas by 2040
- 77,300 acres of residentially zoned land facing flood threats
A Historical Context
In the wake of Hurricane Sandy in 2012, which severely damaged around 170,000 homes in New York City and along Long Island, efforts to mitigate flooding have intensified. Unfortunately, ongoing climate issues and strict zoning laws, particularly those limiting development to single-family homes, have hindered the ability to expand multifamily housing options, further complicating the housing crisis.
Moving Forward
The RPA urges policy makers to focus on several key areas:
- Develop housing that can withstand flood conditions.
- Consider buying out properties at the highest risk of flooding.
- Promote the construction of more housing outside of identified flood zones.
Conclusion
This new report serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address both climate change and the housing shortage in the New York metro area. Only through proactive measures can the city and surrounding areas begin to safeguard their residents and housing stock from the impending risks of flooding.
