January 22, 2024

The New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is progressing on construction of the underground storage tanks that will capture millions of gallons of combined sewage and rainwater that would otherwise overflow into the Gowanus Canal during rainstorms. This important project complements the US EPA’s on-going Superfund dredging project and will significantly improve the health of the neighborhood. DEP’s project will also create new public waterfront open space and amenities for the Gowanus community.

DEP broke ground on the project in March. In September, crews began construction of an underground concrete wall that will support the removal of soil necessary to build the first tank. The construction site is located along the eastern side of the Canal, bounded by Butler Street, Nevins Street and Degraw Street. We are working hard to reduce any impacts that the construction may have on the surrounding neighborhood.

Working with the US EPA, DEP implemented a robust community air monitoring program to monitor emissions and protect residents and our workers while we undertake this important project. The monitoring program includes eight automatic monitoring stations around the perimeter of the construction site that operate continuously and monitor air quality for particulate matter and chemicals, including petroleum. To date, all air quality readings have been within public health guidelines with the exception of citywide air quality impacts as a result of the Canadian wildfires last summer.

To control any harmless odors that could arise during construction activities, we perform regular inspections, spray excavated soil with non-toxic, odor neutralizing foam, and operate an odor neutralizing misting system. We are also erecting a tent enclosure over select equipment which will further minimize odors from traveling outside of the construction area. All construction machinery used at the site meets US EPA’s and NYC Local Law 77 emissions guidelines, which require the best available technology for emissions control and reduction.