Transforming toxic: a new vision for urban waterways takes shape in Brooklyn
Designers are rethinking one of New York City’s most polluted sites with climate adaptation and community benefits
TL;DR
- The Gowanus Canal, a Superfund site due to heavy industrial pollution, is being revitalized with green infrastructure.
- Climate change impacts like increased storms and sea level rise are being addressed through new retention tanks and resilient design.
- The Gowanus Canal Conservancy and Scape are creating publicly accessible waterfront spaces with a focus on biodiversity, ecological regeneration, and community needs.
- New designs incorporate stormwater management, using native plants and 'street creeks' to filter water.
- The vision prioritizes creating new urban ecosystems adapted to current conditions, rather than restoring a past state.