Army Corps Proposes Buying Out 210 Jamaica Bay Homes
The federal agency cites rising tides that threaten to make low-lying areas in Queens inaccessible, though local leaders argue residents want protection first.
By Jason Cooper ·
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is proposing to voluntarily buy out 210 homes in Queens. The agency identified these structures as at risk because rising tides could leave six inches of water near them at high tide. That depth of water reaches the bottom of most passenger vehicles and can destabilize adults on foot.
The proposed buyouts are part of a coastal storm risk feasibility study for Jamaica Bay. The plan targets low-lying neighborhoods including Hamilton Beach, Howard Beach, Old Howard Beach, and Lindenwood. The agency defines inaccessibility based on the six-inch threshold, which it notes increases the risk to life safety and evacuation.
Local residents and officials reacted strongly to the proposal. Roger Gendron, president of the New Hamilton Beach Civic Association, stated that the community response has been unanimous in its resistance to leaving. He noted the area has been home to residents for more than 100 years. Gary Robertson, a resident of Hamilton Beach, described walking through water to reach his home as a regular occurrence during moon tides.
City Council Member Joann Ariola said homeowners deserve meaningful flood protection. She argued that while residents accept the risk of living on the water, the current level of risk is too high. She emphasized the need for physical barriers rather than just financial incentives.
The Army Corps says its comprehensive plan includes flood walls, berms, and storm surge barriers. These protection measures require additional study and funding before they can be finalized. The agency told CBS News New York that it is incorporating community feedback and expects to finalize its report next year.
Chief Nicholas Spinelli of the West Hamilton Beach Fire Department pointed out that the community has dealt with the same coastal flooding since 1993. He noted that emergency responders have had to navigate the streets by boat during past events. Gendron is currently pushing for tide gates as a first step and is seeking additional federal funding from congressional representatives.
If the plan is approved and receives congressional funding, voluntary buyouts could begin as soon as 2032.
Source: KDKA-TV
