New York City Economic Development Corporation: New York City Health + Hospitals FEMA Metropolitan Hospital Flood Wall

Innovative floodwall enables Metropolitan Hospital to withstand a one-in-500-year storm event

Gilbane provided construction management at-risk services for a new flood protection system at NYC Health + Hospitals’ Metropolitan Hospital, a 360,000 SF campus spanning four city blocks. The project delivered a comprehensive flood mitigation system, including three new structures and multiple below-grade utility tunnels, in addition to the renovation of the NYC/NY State Emergency Management Chempack Room. Enhancements also included a campus redesign with new green spaces and picnic areas.

Project Overview

The flood wall’s structural integrity is composed of corrugated sheeting drilled 45 feet underground along the 1800 LF site perimeter wall
A total of eight trees, 87 shrubs, and 4,199 perennials and grasses were planted along with 8,800 SF of sodded lawn
The project included the addition of drainage systems such as pump stations, detention tanks, and outlet control chambers that were installed underground and required structural foundations for support
The hospital remained active during construction with minimal impact on operations

“New Yorkers’ health depends on hardening our critical healthcare infrastructure so that it is protected against the growing threat of climate change. With this new flood wall, East Harlemites will be able to depend on Metropolitan Hospital even in the worst of storms.”
Mark Levine
Former Manhattan Borough President

Quick Stats

Client:
- New York City Economic Development Corporation
Location: New York, NY
Architect:
- STV Incorporated
Size: 360,000 SF
Awards:
- ENR New York, Best Project Award, Water/ Environment
- CMAA Metro New York/ New Jersey Chapter, Project of the Year, $60M to $100M (Building & Infrastructure)