FEMA Grant to Improve Drainage in New Rochelle Neighborhood

The City of New Rochelle received a grant aimed at improving drainage in a neighborhood plagued with chronic flooding.

A grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency—in the amount of $1,736,141—will help replace what has been deemed an outdated and convoluted storm drainage system in Halcyon Park in the area of Brookdale and Lorenz avenues.

According to information provided by the city, the enhancements will include a new culvert, larger pipes and new manholes and catch basins.

Existing water and gas mains will be moved and sewer pipes will be replaced and moved. New concrete curbs and sidewalks will be installed as well.

Mayor Noam Bramson said the improvements will provide relief from persistent flooding to more than 200 families.

"We are grateful to FEMA for their investment, which allows us to replace aging and inadequate infrastructure at substantial savings to the city," he said, in a prepared statement.

The city is required to provide a 25 percent match—or $578,723—and the City Council is expected to vote on funding this month.

The state Office of Emergency Management will administer the $2.3 million grant.