Jamaica Bay Watershed Protection Plan

New York City Department of Environmental Protection Emily Lloyd, Commissioner October 1, 2007 JAMAICA BAY WATERSHED PROTECTION PLAN EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Importance of the Bay

he value of Jamaica Bay is evident to all T who have watched a glowing sunset while on its waters, or a flight of waterfowl coasting in for a landing. The residents who grew up fishing along its shorelines, boating around the tidal marshes, or exploring the natural areas of the estuary will attest to the value of the Bay as an important part of their lives and their identities. At the same time, the Jamaica Bay landscape is a living-space, The Gateway National Recreation Area at work-space, and travel corridor. These two Jamaica Bay, despite its location in an values reflect an important aesthetic and ultra-urban environment, is a nationally and internationally renowned birding function, but represent only a fraction of the destination. Source: Don Riepe. myriad values and roles associated with Jamaica Bay. Because of its geographic size and very For thousands of years, Jamaica Bay has diverse functioning natural habitats, it is no served as an important ecological resource surprise that Jamaica Bay is a nationally and for flora and fauna. The Bay has evolved internationally renowned birding location. over the last 25,000 years as an important Jamaica Bay retains irreplaceable value for and complex network of open water, salt its self-sustaining ecological functions, as marsh, grasslands, coastal woodlands, well as the proximity of its assets by foot, maritime shrublands, brackish and rail and car to the urban metropolis. A walk freshwater wetlands. The wildlife use of along the beaches of Breezy Point or a these systems is commensurate with this kayaking adventure among the Bay’s complex network of natural systems. These wetland islands can be a true wilderness natural communities support 91 species of escape, with Manhattan as a backdrop. fish, 325 bird species (of which 62 are confirmed to breed locally) and are an important habitat for many species of Issues Facing the Bay reptiles, amphibians and mammals. The Bay is a critical stopover area along the The valuable resources that comprise Atlantic Flyway migration route and is one Jamaica Bay are being lost. The current of the best bird-watching locations in the Jamaica Bay estuary is only about half of its western hemisphere. The 20,000 acres of pre-colonial extent and the salt marsh water, islands, marshes, and shorelines wetlands that have been a defining support seasonal or year round populations ecological feature of the Bay are decreasing of 214 species of special concern, including at an accelerating rate. Over the last 150 state and federally endangered and years, interior wetland islands and perimeter threatened species. wetlands have been permanently removed as a result of extensive filling operations; Jamaica Bay Watershed Protection Plan

shorelines have been hardened and NYCDEP and other City agencies, the bulkheaded to stabilize and protect existing Federal Government through the National communities and infrastructure; deep Park Service (NPS) and other federal channels and borrow areas have been agencies, and New York State through the dredged, altering bottom contours and New York State Department of affecting natural flows; and natural Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) tributaries along with their important and other state departments, have been benefits of balanced fresh water and coarse making considerable efforts to improve the sediment exchanges have essentially water quality of Jamaica Bay. These city, disappeared leaving behind deposits of silts state and federal agencies are taking steps to and particulates from urban runoff. The protect and restore the Bay’s ecological quality of the water is degraded from systems and are studying further options to discharges via Water Pollution Control improve the ecological values of the Bay’s Plants (WPCPs), combined sewer outfalls, watershed. Additionally, non-governmental and storm sewers. These activities have organizations, community groups, and synergistically affected historic flow individuals have dedicated countless hours patterns in the Bay, eradicated natural to improve conditions in the Bay and its habitat, impacted water quality, and watershed, and to encourage others to take modified the rich ecosystem that was present up that cause. This Plan builds upon the prior to the extensive urban development of positive impact made by the combined the watershed. energies and resources of all of these entities. Plan Purpose and Intent The Plan contains two volumes. Volume 1,

Jamaica Bay Watershed Regional Profile, a Under Local Law 71 (LL 71), signed by comprehensive reference document for Mayor Bloomberg on July 20, 2005, the Jamaica Bay, provides information about the New York City Department of diverse landscape of the Bay and its Environmental Protection (NYCDEP) is watershed, water quality of the Bay and required to “assess the technical, legal, current status of the ecological system as a environmental and economical feasibility” whole. It also provides the information of a variety of protection measures as part of needed to identify issues of concern that the JBWPP development process. The face the Bay, setting the stage for objective of the bill is to ensure a developing strategies to address these issues comprehensive watershed approach toward in Volume 2. restoring and maintaining the water quality and ecological integrity of the Bay. The final Volume 2, the Watershed Protection Plan, is JBWPP is intended to provide an evaluation intended to serve as a blueprint for the future of the current and future threats to the Bay management of the Bay and its watershed. and ensure that environmental remediation Volume 2 starts with the vision for the Bay and protection efforts are coordinated in a and issues that need to be overcome to focused and cost-effective manner. LL 71 achieve the vision. For each of the issues, was amended (Introduction No. 376) on objectives for the Bay were developed and, August 16, 2006 to extend the development for each objective, strategies or actions are of the JBWPP by one year. Under that identified to address the objective. amendment, the Draft Jamaica Bay

Watershed Protection Plan was completed Volume 2 includes six major “Categories” on March 1, 2007 and this Final Jamaica that identify the significant issues to be Bay Watershed Protection Plan has been addressed to restore the Bay including: submitted to the City Council on October 1, 2007.

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on sound development and infrastructure • Water Quality practices at multiple levels. • Restoration Ecology • Stormwater Management through Although there are many important steps Sound Land Use that individual citizens and individual • Public Education and Outreach agencies can take, significant additional • Public Use and Enjoyment resources and multi-agency cooperation will • Implementation and Coordination be needed to undertake this huge initiative. The solutions to the problems that face Volume 2 includes recommendations for the Jamaica Bay are not cheap. Despite a robust implementation of hard and soft capital investment program, NYCDEP’s infrastructure projects, innovative budget for capital investments is not alternatives, pilot studies, regulatory limitless and there are many competing initiatives and public outreach efforts. needs for these funds citywide. These Collectively these small and large projects dollars must be carefully programmed for will begin to address water quality and drinking water protection, infrastructure ecological issues facing Jamaica Bay. The repair and maintenance as well as for water following sections provide a brief discussion quality protection of all the City’s of the many Implementation Strategies that waterways. have been identified in the Plan. The Implementation Strategies are also In addition, many of the recommendations summarized on Table ES-1 at the end of this are outside NYCDEP’s authority or mission. Executive Summary. For many of these recommendations, NYCDEP recognizes the direct benefits to NYCDEP has traditionally solved the City’s the Bay that these strategies offer and will need for water and wastewater services with continue to work with other agencies and large, infrastructure solutions. Much of our entities to pursue them. However, other current infrastructure system is a testament City, state and federal agencies experience to these historic engineering marvels such as similar levels of financial responsibility to the City’s magnificent high quality drinking program limited funds throughout the City. water supply system and colossal Therefore, support for projects must be wastewater system that has led to major considered in the context of other agency improvements in the quality of the City’s mandates. Ultimately, the responsible parties waterbodies. Today, new infrastructure overseeing the Bay must share responsibility projects come at a significant cost, while for developing a financial plan for the Bay. achieving more modest incremental improvements. Therefore, the agency is The JBWPP is not a document that is fixed looking for decentralized and integrated in time. The issues facing the Bay are solutions that might be more financially and expected to evolve, and will be recognized environmentally sustainable. NYCDEP in regular Plan updates. Implementation for views sustainability as a central theme in its many of the recommended strategies will approach to protect and preserve Jamaica begin immediately and will be an ongoing Bay, an approach consistent with the collaborative effort. cornerstone of the Mayor’s PlaNYC 2030: to build a sustainable New York City based

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Water Quality addition facilities at 26th Ward WPCP. These changes will result in a reduction in The Objectives and Management Strategies the amount of total nitrogen (TN) that is discussed under this Category address a currently being discharged to the Bay. variety of approaches designed to improve the water quality and ecosystem of the Bay Continue to Minimize Sludge and its tributary basins. Included are Processing from other WPCPs in engineered solutions, ecologically Jamaica Bay sustainable practices, and innovative techniques. Engineered solutions rely on NYCDEP will continue its efforts to facilities/infrastructure upgrades that have minimize transshipment of sludge for the potential to eliminate additional nutrient processing in Jamaica Bay. In addition, it and contaminant loading to the Bay or to will not ship sludge from Bowery Bay and maximize the potential of existing facilities. Tallman Island to Jamaica Bay. However, Foremost, the Plan suggests new initiatives NYCDEP requires flexibility because there to reduce nitrogen levels in the Bay beyond are limited options and facilities where those previously proposed by NYCDEP. sludge can be treated and at times Secondary benefits of reduced nitrogen construction and repair work will further loadings to the Bay include potential limit access to facilities. reductions in algae production and chlorophyll as well as slight improvements in dissolved oxygen. Algae and Sea Lettuce Harvesting Pilot Study The Objectives and Implementation Strategies designed to improve the water Algae contains one to six percent nitrogen quality of the Bay are discussed briefly (dry weight), and masses of sea lettuce have below. Several of these strategies are been identified as potentially smothering already mandated/proposed under the CSO saltmarsh vegetation. On a limited temporal consent order and the CSO Long Term and spatial basis, skimmer boats will be used Control Plan (LTCP) as identified in the to harvest sea lettuce and algae where it Jamaica Bay and CSO Tributaries amasses in the waters. This pilot will Waterbody/Watershed Facility Plan determine if skimmer boats are a feasible (WB/WS Plan) submitted to the NYSDEC and cost-effective method to remove these in June 2007. plants. Their removal will also reduce negative aesthetic issues and if processed, OBJECTIVE 1A: REDUCE the removed material has the potential to NITROGEN LOADINGS provide biofuel.

Carbon Addition Facilities at 26th Algal Turf Scrubbers® Ward and Jamaica WPCPs Algal Turf Scrubbers® are an ecologically-

based technology that has the potential to NYCDEP will propose carbon addition at “polish” a percentage of the wastewater 26th Ward and Jamaica WPCPs as potential flow, removing up to an additional 20% of strategies to reduce nitrogen loadings as part total nitrogen for that portion of wastewater of ongoing discussions on the treated, prior to discharge. A small scale Comprehensive Jamaica Bay Water Quality algal turf scrubber pilot will be installed at Protection Plan (CJBWQP) with NYSDEC. the 26th Ward WPCP to determine its This strategy also includes interim carbon potential for more expanded use.

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increase the current inspection rate. This Oyster and Eel Grass Restoration would create a preventative program rather Pilot Study than the current one that is complaint driven.

th Oysters are 26 Ward Sewer Cleaning Project known as a keystone species A sewer cleaning project in the 26th Ward and an WPCP drainage area will be implemented to “ecosystem remove sediments from sewers that have engineer” that been identified as bottlenecks in the system has the ability to along Williams Street, Hegeman Avenue modify it and Flatlands Avenue. The cleaning project environs through will result in an overall annual 212 MG its life processes. reduction of combined sewage discharging A single mature to Jamaica Bay. oyster can filter approximately 2.5 gallons of water per hour Expanded Interceptor Inspection and or 35 gallons per day and can remove and Maintenance sequester within the sediments approximately 20% of the nitrogen it takes The expanded interceptor inspection and in. The natural filtering capabilities of maintenance program will be piloted in the oysters can help remove nitrogen and Rockaway and Oakwood Beach WPCP suspended sediments from the water column drainage areas and subsequently carried out near an eel grass bed and may provide citywide. This program will use sonar sufficient environmental conditions to equipment to identify interceptor cleaning support eel grass. While not typically priorities. occupying the same ecological “niche”, recent studies have recognized the potential 26th Ward WPCP 50 MGD Expansion benefits of linking these restorations. Small scale pilot projects will be implemented to th establish costs, benefits and success. The 26 Ward WPCP will be upgraded to increase the wet weather capacity from 170 MGD to 220 MGD. This will require the Ribbed Mussel Restoration Pilot construction of new primary settling tanks, a Study new chlorine contact chamber, and other related items. Through a pilot study, the filtering capacity and required densities of ribbed mussels to Paerdegat CSO Retention Facility improve water quality will be evaluated.

NYCDEP is currently constructing an off- OBJECTIVE 1B: REDUCE CSO line CSO storage facility adjacent to AND OTHER DISCHARGES INTO Paerdegat Basin. This facility will have the THE TRIBUTARIES TO REDUCE ability to capture and temporarily store 50 PATHOGENS AND IMPROVE MGD of CSO that would otherwise DISSOLVED OXYGEN discharge from the Paerdegat Basin outfall. Once a storm event passes, the stored flow Expanded Sewer Cleaning Program will be redirected to the Coney Island WPCP for treatment. An expanded sewer inspection and cleaning program is under development that will

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Hendrix Creek – Evaluating In-line Jewel Streets Sewer Project Storage Sanitary and storm sewers, a new water As part of the Long Term Control Plan main, and a stilling basin will be constructed (LTCP), further evaluation will be to alleviate contamination from failing performed for a two foot bending weir that septic systems, provide additional would be placed on top of the existing stormwater treatment and reduce flooding concrete weir to provide 100% CSO capture. within the Jewel Street area (Ruby, Sapphire A hydraulic analysis will be performed to and Amber Streets). determine if there is a risk of flooding. Assess Inflow, Infiltration and Other Laurelton HLSS Sewer Problems

High level sewer systems (HLSS) provide NYCDEP will conduct an in-field study of separation of storm and sanitary sewers. An inflows and outflows to identify potential implementation plan for the development of problems such as inappropriate connections. a HLSS in the Laurelton Area will be developed following completion of the Additional Boat Pump-Out Facilities Southeast Queens Drainage Plan in January at the Rockaway WPCP 2008. HLSSs have the potential to reduce CSO discharges during storm events. Personal watercraft in Jamaica Bay

sometimes “pump-out” wastewaters directly Regulators in Bergen Basin into the Bay. This water contains high concentrations of pathogens and other Hydraulic limitations currently constrict wet pollutants associated with human waste weather flow to the Jamaica WPCP. A new products. To help improve water quality and 48-inch inverted siphon and regulator provide an important free service to local improvements will address back-up and area boaters, using matching funds from the overflow problems and will redirect flows to Clean Vessel Act program, NYCDEP has provide more effective treatment. installed two pump-out facilities on Jamaica Bay. NYCDEP is currently developing the Complete Sewer Separation in the designs for a third facility at the Rockaway Rockaways WPCP and is obtaining required NYSDEC permits. NYCDEP will continue to explore a Sewers in the western section of the potential additional location for a fourth boat Rockaway WPCP drainage area have been pump-out station, which would allow for separated; however additional sewer designating Jamaica Bay as a “No Discharge separation in other areas will continue. Zone” for boaters.

Warnerville / Meadowmere Sewer Project

The sewering of the Warnerville and Meadowmere portions of Queens is underway and should be completed in the near-term. This project will eliminate the direct discharge of sewage to the Bay.

A boat pump-out unit installed in 2000 located at the Coney Island WPCP, Source: NYCDEP Boat Pump Out October 1, 2007 6 Remote Unit. Jamaica Bay Watershed Protection Plan

OBJECTIVE 1C: INCREASE Support Army Corps Ecological DISSOLVED OXYGEN LEVELS IN Restoration Projects in Paerdegat TRIBUTARY BASIN AREAS TO Basin and Fresh Creek IMPROVE ECOLOGICAL PRODUCTIVITY The JBWPP strongly supports the ecological restoration projects proposed by the US Dredge and Recontour Hendrix Creek Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) for tributaries in Jamaica Bay. Hendrix Creek includes a large CSO sediment deposit that has formed at the head OBJECTIVE 1D: DEVELOP A end of the Creek. NYCDEP has undertaken ROBUST SCIENTIFIC the design process to begin dredging MONITORING PROGRAM Hendrix Creek. Following removal of sediment, the bottom will be “capped” with Develop an Enhanced Monitoring clean sand. This project should improve Plan Through Partnerships water quality and reduce the noxious odors from CSO buildup. A collaborative effort between the academic realm and government agencies is essential Dredging of Paerdegat Fresh Creek, to adequately address the enormous scope Bergen, and Thurston Basins and complexity of the interacting ecosystems of the Bay and watershed. In the Implementation schedules for dredging and short term, NYCDEP will coordinate recontouring of Paerdegat Basin, Fresh existing monitoring efforts of DEC, NPS, Creek, Bergen Basin and Thurston Basin USACE and other entities to maximize the have been developed and submitted to effectiveness of current monitoring efforts. NYSDEC for approval in the Paerdegat NYCDEP will also coordinate with Basin LTCP report and the Jamaica Bay and academic institutions to potentially direct Tributary Waterbody/Watershed Plan report. research efforts of students and faculty to Jamaica Bay. Within a year, NYCDEP will Fresh Creek, Bergen and Thurston evaluate the development of an enhanced Basins – In-stream Aeration water quality and ecosystem monitoring program. The following parameters will be Increased DO levels in Fresh Creek can be considered for future monitoring: enhanced attained by adding in-stream aeration water quality sampling, sediment sampling, coupled with dredging to create a water biological and ecosystem modeling, and salt column deep enough to achieve effective marsh monitoring. In addition, NYCDEP is aeration through the full range of tidal completing a pilot study and developing a exchange. full-scale program to monitor floatables in New York Harbor and Jamaica Bay.

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Ecological Restoration restoration efforts is recommended in all cases to help ensure future success through

adaptive management. This Category addresses initiatives that will promote the restoration of the ecology of the OBJECTIVE 2A: RESTORE THE Bay. This effort is focused on tidal wetland communities, particularly marsh islands and SALT MARSH ISLANDS IN peripheral wetlands, but also includes a JAMAICA BAY variety of other habitats that are important to the great diversity of wildlife that frequent Establish Salt Marsh Islands the Bay. This Category also recommends the Wetlands Priority Restoration Review identification of remaining public and Board private vacant lands that may be suitable for acquisition for preservation and/or It is recommended that within 6-months of restoration. Mapping and restoration may the final JBWPP that a Salt Marsh Islands include dunes, beaches, grassland, tidal Wetlands Priority Restoration Review Board marsh, and areas dominated by invasive of multi-agency and local environmental species. Monitoring the success of group representation, possibly under the

On August 2, 2007, the Jamaica Bay Watershed Protection Plan Advisory Committee and National Park Service released a report concluding that the rate of salt marsh loss is accelerating. Their analysis utilized satellite imagery and aerial photography over time to determine recent trends in salt marsh loss. The findings in the report suggest that the rate of loss which was approximately 33 acres per year during 1989-2003 has accelerated for certain marsh islands to 54 acres per year. Source: Jamaica Bay Watershed Protection Plan Advisory Committee.

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proposed Jamaica Bay sub-workgroup of the under the ownership of the New York City New York-New Jersey Harbor Estuary Department of Housing Preservation and Program (HEP), review restoration logistics Development (HPD). NYCDEP is working and begin to establish a priority list of with HPD and DPR to protect these parcels wetland restorations. It is recommended as open space. Protection will eliminate that those wetland complexes that appear to illegal dumping and may provide future be relatively stable based on the data to date stormwater parks or community gardens and be given higher consideration for potential will improve connectivity between the Bay restoration efforts as these likely have the and the land. Restoration plans would be greatest potential for buffering capacity and developed following site assessments. a reasonable expectation of long term stability as compared to those identified with Pursue Acquisition and Restoration the most loss and a high likelihood that they Efforts in Cluster Areas will fail in the short term. A preliminary review of public and privately Salt Marsh Island Wave Attenuator owned vacant land within a one-mile radius Pilot Study of the Bay was performed. The review focused on identifying vacant parcels that NYCDEP will develop and implement a could potentially be acquired to provide the pilot study to determine if the installation of most ecological benefit, based on size, a wave attenuator around a section of a salt proximity to the Bay, and proximity to marsh island would be a cost-effective existing parks and open space. The groups method to slow the rate of wetland loss and of parcels are collectively termed “cluster if the attenuator can capture marsh building areas.” A total of 214 public properties sediments. Recently restored salt marsh having a combined acreage of 208 acres islands are extremely vulnerable to the were identified. The NYCDEP will work damaging effects of wind and wave energies with the Department of Citywide due to their limited vegetative cover and the Administrative Services (DCAS) to evaluate limited benefits of sediment anchoring from these “cluster areas” and to place a “study an underdeveloped root system. These areas hold” until each property can be fully are also vulnerable to erosive forces from assessed for its potential to provide ice flows during the winter months. The use environmental benefits. There could be a of geotextile fabrics, temporary floating potential benefit to acquire private breakwater systems or other biodegradable properties to develop a continuous cluster of materials may be able to effectively armor parcels, pending funding availability. the vulnerable windward fringe of these marshes, allowing sufficient protection Seagirt Avenue Wetland Properties, while the smooth cordgrass (Spartina Far Rockaway, Queens alterniflora) becomes fully established. The JBWPP recommends that multiple OBJECTIVE 2B: PROTECT entities/agencies leverage funding to acquire NATURAL AREAS ALONG THE additional Seagirt Avenue wetland PERIPHERY OF THE BAY properties, which are located in Far Rockaway, Queens, and contain a tidal creek Transfer HPD Properties in the with steep eroding shorelines, fringing Edgemere Section of Queens to DPR wetland, ponds, and filled uplands. This site is considered a high-priority acquisition site A number of undeveloped parcels, totaling by the New York/New Jersey Harbor approximately ten acres, located in the Estuary Program and is also identified on Edgemere Section of Queens are currently

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the New York State Open Space list for Update and Inventory Dune and acquisition. Beach Habitats

Complete the Restoration of the Beaches and dunes are important natural Jamaica Bay Marsh Islands buffers against the forces of wave and wind Ecosystem Project (Elders Point and erosion, and are dynamic landscape features Yellow Bar) and the 8 JBERRT sites that quickly change as a result of wind erosion and deposition. These areas support The eight Jamaica Bay Ecosystem Research several rare plant species, serve as vital and Restoration Team (JBERRT) sites foraging and breeding habitat for selected (including Dead Horse Bay, Paerdegat birds and aquatic organisms, and provide Basin, Fresh Creek, Spring Creek South, aesthetic and recreational opportunities for Hawtree Point, Bayswater State Park, Dubos residents and tourists. In coordination and Point, and Brant Point) have been identified collaboration with multiple agencies and by the USACE as high priority restoration environmental groups, NYCDEP will update sites around Jamaica Bay. These sites have an inventory of all existing dune and beach gone through an extensive review process habitats to create a base GIS map. This and have excellent potential for restoration information can be then used by restoration and providing environmental benefits. practitioners in developing and leveraging Conceptual plans and costs have already future ecological restoration designs. been developed for these projects. The Jamaica Bay Marsh Islands Ecosystem Project at Elders Point East was completed in 2006 and Elder’s Point West is scheduled to be completed in 2008. However, at this point, additional restoration of marsh islands, such as the restoration of Yellow Bar Hassock has not been scheduled. The JBWPP recommends that the funding for the eight JBERRT Projects and for Yellow Bar Hassock be secured and that the restoration efforts move forward.

Track and Inventory Restoration Sites Existing upland marshes and dunes of Jamaica Bay, Source: Don Riepe. An extensive inventory of sites Expand Litter Removal and recommended by others for potential Reduction Programs acquisition and restoration within the

Jamaica Bay watershed has been compiled NYCDEP will work with New York City as part of the preparation of the JBWPP. Department of Parks and Recreation This inventory, identified as the “Jamaica (NYCDPR) to determine whether trash Bay Conservation and Restoration Project collection along the beaches and parks can Inventory” will be updated and utilized for be extended beyond Labor Day. In addition, interagency coordination and to prioritize NYCDEP will continue to work with local acquisition, preservation and restoration groups on future shoreline clean ups and projects. restoration plantings. NYCDEP encourages

participation from other agencies and organizations in these efforts.

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Reduce the Extent of Invasive Determine RTE Restoration Priorities Vegetation and Targets

NYCDEP will work with other government Ecological assessments of Jamaica Bay agencies and environmental organizations to should continue to refine the identification promote the importance of invasive species of where current rare, threatened, and management to the overall health and endangered (RTE) critical habitat areas ecological function of the Jamaica Bay exist. In coordination and consultation with watershed. Invasive species management multiple agencies and other relevant plans that each land managing entity can stakeholder groups, determine realistic RTE implement will be developed in partnership restoration priorities and targets (e.g., which with other agencies and organizations species populations are the most desirable and practical to restore).

Stormwater BMPs these questions to a certain degree, a much more difficult question is: “How much can

be implemented?” The answer to this Controlling stormwater at the source – at question will depend on the development of residences, commercial establishments, and a comprehensive program that will streets – through Stormwater Best potentially include regulatory measures, Management Practices (BMPs) can be incentive programs, and public outreach. effective in reducing CSO and other This effort, being orchestrated through the untreated discharges to the Bay. Modeling Mayor’s Interagency BMP Task Force, `will performed for this Plan shows that after a require coordination between many City ten-year period, lower capture BMPs, such agencies, private interests, and other as rain barrels, rain gardens, and swales for stakeholders. existing development and streets and sidewalks, could achieve a 6% reduction in As positive as the potential benefits are, they untreated discharges to the Bay, which come at a hefty price. However, there is still includes CSOs, and storm sewer discharges. much to be resolved on the costing side of A very aggressive BMP implementation BMPs. The JBWPP utilizes the best effort for new and existing development in available information on the cost of BMP the Jamaica Bay watershed could yield installation in New York City, but there is reductions of 24% in untreated discharges to little information to draw from that is the Bay. An alternative approach that specific to New York City implementation focuses on large rooftops (>5,000 square and there are many uncertainties. One of the feet) through either rooftop detention or key purposes of the pilot studies proposed in green roofs could achieve a 13% reduction this Plan is to develop better cost estimates in untreated discharges to the Bay. Pollutant for both capital and maintenance costs and load reductions including pathogens, to determine which BMPs provide the most nutrients and toxins are comparable to cost-effective results under New York City volume reductions. conditions.

These benefits need to be understood in the The cost-benefit equation will also differ context of what is achievable. For purposes from area to area in the City. In Jamaica of this Plan, a number of what-if scenarios Bay, large CSO storage tanks are cost- were developed. “What if all new effective because there is typically one CSO development and 10% of existing outfall per tributary basin and a storage development were to implement BMPs?” facility can be located so as to capture CSOs “What if all existing large rooftops were to in one location. In other areas of the City, implement BMPs?” While the Plan answers

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CSOs are more diffuse. Either more, smaller homeowners and environmental tanks would need to be built, or sewer organizations. End-of-pipe solutions also construction would be needed to reroute and take long periods of time to become facts on concentrate flows at a tank location. the ground, involving very lengthy design and construction processes. The City has The benefits of BMPs should not be patiently awaited these facilities to be built compared only to hard infrastructure costs. and their effects to be made known; it is In fact, BMPs are embraced by many now time to pursue BMPs with the same municipalities around the country that do not patience and commitment. have CSOs. By addressing stormwater generation at its source and fostering low- The following are Implementation Strategies impact development, BMPs can provide that will facilitate the broader use of BMPs. many benefits that end-of-pipe treatments cannot. In addition to controlling stormwater OBJECTIVE 3A: PROMOTE THE runoff volumes and pollutant loads, some of USE OF ON-SITE BEST the many benefits BMPs and source controls MANAGEMENT PRACTICES IN provide include reducing the urban heat NEW AND EXISTING island effect, greenhouse gas reductions, DEVELOPMENT flood mitigation, habitat, erosion control,

and aesthetic amenities. Pilot and Demonstration Projects

As BMPs become more widely used and as NYCDEP will pursue several pilot studies to contractors and developers incorporate more gather information and address uncertainties BMPs into their developments, lessons will related to costs, benefits, public acceptance, be learned, cost efficiencies will be maintenance requirements, and site identified, and economies of scale will be conditions. The pilots will be carefully accrued. It is NYCDEP’s hope that the monitored once installed to evaluate their Implementation Strategies suggested in this effectiveness. Examples of pilots may Plan, from the many pilot studies that will include: be conducted to the code reviews and the incentive programs that will be explored, ƒ Comparison of green roofs and blue will help lay the groundwork for more roofs (rooftop detention) technologies. widespread acceptance of BMPs in New ƒ Rain barrel give-away program. York City. ƒ Parking lot BMP pilot study. ƒ Residential pilot study at an existing affordable housing complex. ƒ Porous pavement pilot study. Through the Mayor’s Interagency BMP Task Force, strategies for incorporating BMPs into the design and construction of City capital projects will be developed. One of Gaia Institute’s green roof projects in the New York City area. Source: Gaia Institute 2006. Evaluate Rooftop Detention

The future for BMPs is encouraging, but it Rooftop detention consists of collars will take time to see the benefits. It will installed around the rooftop leaders that involve harnessing the resources of many detain flow on the rooftop. Despite its city agencies, private developers, considerably lower cost, only a small

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number of developers now choose rooftop exploratory work is available, funding for an detention over subsurface detention when incentive program is not. Other planned required to provide detention as part of their NYCDEP cost-sharing programs to promote projects. NYCDEP will work to identify water conservation include rebates for opportunities to promote rooftop detention toilets, urinals, and washing machine earlier in the permit process. replacements.

In addition, NYCDEP will investigate the Regulatory and Design Code Changes potential for a program to target the implementation of rooftop detention on The current City Administrative Codes existing large roofs in the Jamaica Bay (Sewer Code and Building Code) are watershed; 2.5% of the rooftops are over directed to controlling the flow of 5,000 square feet and represent stormwater away from lots and into sewers approximately 29% of the rooftop area with the primary purpose of avoiding within the watershed. flooding and standing water and the public health concerns associated with these Economic Incentives conditions. They do not routinely require or promote the use of stormwater detention or Economic incentives such as water and infiltration BMPs for the purpose of sewer rate discounts and public/private cost- minimizing CSOs. The Sewer Code and sharing may be needed to encourage the potentially the Building Code may need to implementation of BMPs, particularly for be revised to better facilitate installation of existing development. Stormwater rates are BMPs on a wider scale. NYCDEP will currently being used by municipalities conduct a review and study of the Sewer across the country to achieve local and Code and closely coordinate with the New regional goals of reducing stormwater York City Department of Buildings generation and paying for infrastructure (NYCDOB) and other agencies on related needs to meet more stringent regulatory codes to evaluate possible code changes. requirements. NYCDEP will undertake a study to evaluate alternative stormwater rate The New York City Department of City structures and their potential revenue and Planning (NYCDCP) has recently proposed ratepayer impacts. parking lot design standards in the Zoning Resolution that apply to commercial and PlaNYC includes an incentive program for community facilities with parking lots that green roofs. Under PlaNYC, the City will contain 18 or more parking stalls or are support the installation of green roofs by 6,000 sq ft or more in size. NYCDEP enacting a property tax rebate to offset 35% worked with NYCDCP to incorporate of the installation cost of a green roof. A stormwater BMPs into the design standards role of the Mayor’s Office Interagency BMP such as street trees and perimeter and Task Force is to investigate possible interior landscaping that would provide incentives that can be used to encourage infiltration to the soils. Additional revisions BMP implementation, and this will be part to the Zoning Resolution are being planned of the Task Force’s Plan to be completed in to require more pervious areas and late 2008. landscaping within new and existing development and additional street trees. To expedite the implementation of BMPs on existing development, NYCDEP will work Technical Assistance with the New York City Soil and Water Conservation District (NYCSWCD) to A BMP Design Manual, specific to the New identify a potential framework for an York City urban environment, will be incentive program. While funding for developed as a companion to the Sewer

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Code. The manual would address high ƒ Enhanced tree pit pilot study to density development areas, drainage issues, incorporate infiltration, retention and Sewer Code and permitting process water harvesting practices into tree interface, and soil, bedrock, groundwater, planting areas. and climate conditions. The manual would include detailed design requirements for public and private development projects and would be developed with input from multiple city agencies. In addition, revisions to the City Environmental Quality Review (CEQR) Technical Manual will be proposed to include a specific section addressing proposed developments in the Jamaica Bay watershed that are subject to CEQR.

Monitor Benefits

A database of public and private BMPs Vegetated swale installed in road within the city will be created and the median. Source : USDA Natural success of various BMPs will be tracked. Resources Conservation Service

OBJECTIVE 3B: PROMOTE THE Tree Planting Initiatives USE OF OFF-SITE BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES Trees capture and transpire significant quantities of rainwater and provide multiple Pilot and Demonstration Projects for additional ecological benefits. A number of Roadways, Streets, and Sidewalks tree planting efforts are planned, many of which will be undertaken as part of the

Mayor’s PlaNYC 2030. PlaNYC 2030 has Impervious surface analyses of the committed to planting one million new street watershed estimate that approximately 30% trees throughout the City and includes of the Jamaica Bay watershed is covered by installing 14 new Greenstreets within the streets and sidewalks alone. Locating off- Jamaica Bay Watershed. Another tree site BMPs along roadways would help to planting effort is planned within East New capture runoff that contains high levels of York to increase the street tree stocking pollutants. Therefore, a variety of off-site level from 52 to 100 percent in the next ten BMP pilot studies will be undertaken to years. East New York was selected under evaluate their effectiveness and address the Trees for Public Health program to uncertainties related to costs, benefits, improve air quality. public acceptance, maintenance requirements, and site conditions. Examples of pilots may include: Pilot and Demonstration Projects for Vacant Lands ƒ BMPs for the reconstruction of the Fresh Creek, Paerdegat and Rockaway Publicly-owned parcels and abandoned Bridges along the Belt Parkway; railroad corridors may provide opportunities ƒ Streetside infiltration swales along for the development of “stormwater parks.” streets and sidewalks; Stormwater parks could treat stormwater ƒ Constructed wetlands to capture and from multiple adjacent parcels and would treat stormwater runoff from roadways; create additional benefits such as opportunities for multi-use, pocket parks, green spaces, and urban habitat. NYCDEP

October 1, 2007 14 Jamaica Bay Watershed Protection Plan

will develop a constructed wetland pilot Particular projects that will be pursued project within a vacant parcel. include the redirection of stormwater flow from adjacent areas and construction of Restoration of Existing Parks to BMPs within Baisley Pond Park and Provide Enhanced Stormwater Springfield Park. Treatment

Existing open space (such as parks, plazas, community gardens, etc.) can be retrofitted with BMPs to treat stormwater runoff.

Public Education and OBJECTIVE 4A: RAISE Outreach AWARENESS OF JAMAICA BAY’S UNIQUE ASSETS AND This Category includes strategies to increase CHALLENGES public understanding of the importance of Jamaica Bay and the impacts of individual Enhance Jamaica Bay-Related actions on the health and sustainability of Educational Curriculum the Bay. Long-term ecological sustainability is directly linked to the actions and attitudes This Implementation Strategy involves of the people that live, work, and play in the continuing to develop the Jamaica Bay watershed. The concept of environmental Educators’ Resource Guide – a document stewardship is that residents understand, currently being developed by the Jamaica value, and care for their environmental Bay Watershed Education Coordinating resources, and thus are motivated to make Committee – to provide a comprehensive decisions that improve the health of the directory of environmental education watershed and the Jamaica Bay estuary. As curricula for kindergarten through 12th people understand the Bay through grade school teachers and other educators exploration, study, and play, they will gain a within the Jamaica Bay watershed. The sense of environmental stewardship and resource guide, once completed, will align voluntarily modify their behaviors and existing curricula and programs with key practices in ways that will have positive topics related to Jamaica Bay and identify effects on water quality, human health, and gaps in existing educational curricula. ecological processes. Organize a “State of the Bay” The Implementation Strategies focus on Scientific Symposium ways to build upon existing education and outreach programs to address learning of all NYCDEP, working with the NYCSWCD types of citizens – watershed residents, and the Jamaica Bay Institute, will organize property owners, business owners, a formalized biennial “State of the Bay” developers, school children, visitors, civic Symposium. Jamaica Bay Institute’s March officials – and include individuals of all 2004 conference on the state of the Bay will ages. Each Implementation Strategy is be used as a model for symposium discussed briefly below. development. A formalized biennial conference would allow continuing information-sharing and coordination between citizens and the scientific

October 1, 2007 15 Jamaica Bay Watershed Protection Plan

community, and potentially compel more chemicals, and promote sound landscaping research efforts in the watershed. In practices. addition, the symposium could be timed with the biennial Jamaica Bay Watershed Protection Plan update process.

Campaign to Protect Jamaica Bay

NYCDEP will work to create a targeted campaign to provide information to developers, residents, and business owners about how to protect Jamaica Bay through simple pollution prevention steps and best management practices where they live and work. As a first step, NYCDEP is in the process of developing a brochure to identify Encouraging Stewardship. Source : NYCDEP actions that can be taken to conserve water and energy, install on-site stormwater runoff management, minimize the use of household

Public Use/Enjoyment watershed. Each Implementation Strategy is discussed briefly below. The goal of this Category is to enhance public access, recreation, and enjoyment OBJECTIVE 5A: INCREASE opportunities within the Jamaica Bay PUBLIC ACCESS TO JAMAICA watershed. Jamaica Bay is the largest natural BAY area in New York City, and provides opportunities to view wildlife, fish, and Rockaway Gateway Greenway relax and enjoy nature that are a rarity in the

City’s highly urbanized environment. The Rockaway Gateway Greenway will Gateway National Recreation Area (GNRA) establish a continuous approximately 20- is an unparalleled regional resource. Public mile greenway loop around the Bay. When access to many parts of the Bay is currently completed, the loop will connect Floyd limited due to commercial, industrial, and Bennett Field, Fort Tilden, Jacob Riis Park, transportation infrastructure running along and the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge, the perimeter of the Jamaica Bay estuary, providing bike access around the Bay, privately-owned property (such as JFK across bridges and to the Rockaway’s ocean Airport), and bulkheading of much of the beaches. The specific segments, in various Bay’s shoreline. stages of implementation, to be addressed

are: Shore Parkway Path: Pennsylvania The Implementation Strategies discussed in th Avenue to 84th Street and 84 Street to JFK this Category are being undertaken by Airport; Rockaway/Gateway Greenway: NYCDPR, NYCDOT, the National Park Flatbush Avenue, Spring Creek Portion, Service (NPS) and other agencies to build Cross Bay Boulevard, and Rockaway upon existing open space, parks, and Boulevard along Beach Channel Drive. greenways within the Jamaica Bay watershed by providing greater access and amenities to both the Bay and upper

October 1, 2007 16 Jamaica Bay Watershed Protection Plan

Laurelton and Cross Island Parkway Floyd Bennett Field/Gateway National Greenways Recreation Area

This 22-mile path through parkland is being The NPS has identified numerous capital planned and designed by NYCDPR and improvement projects within GNRA, NYCDOT. The route will be located including rehabilitating visitor centers and adjacent to the roadways and will provide a stabilizing the historic hangars at Floyd link between the Brooklyn/Queens Bennett Field. Greenway system, which connects to the rest of New York City and beyond, through OBJECTIVE 5B: INCREASE the upper Jamaica Bay watershed area, and PUBLIC ACCESS TO A WIDER to the Jamaica Bay waterfront. RANGE OF LANDSCAPE TYPES IN THE UPPER WATERSHED Southern Parkway Greenway and Conduit Boulevard Brooklyn/Queens Greenway - Queens

This greenway will also connect the The Greenway Plan for New York City Brooklyn/Queens Greenway system to the includes plans to connect existing parks, waterfront, via the Laurelton Greenway and open spaces, cultural locations, and the through Nassau County. waterfront at Coney Island via existing natural or man-made corridors. The Eastern Far Rockaway North Shore Greenway Parkway Extension, one of the remaining This greenway will connect communities in segments of the Brooklyn/Queens Greenway Far Rockaway with the Rockaway/Gateway to be constructed, will enhance these Greenway discussed above. connections within the Jamaica Bay watershed.

Implementation and A key issue for Plan implementation is funding. A number of the priority Coordination Implementation Strategies are currently unfunded. Partnerships will need to be There are a myriad of federal, state, and city developed between the public and private government agencies, non-governmental sectors to fund these initiatives. And organizations, academic institutions, and coordinated advocacy efforts are needed private interests working to preserve and across the many non-governmental enhance the unique resources of Jamaica organizations working in the Jamaica Bay Bay and reverse the trends of water quality watershed to help to leverage additional degradation and wetland loss. Despite all of funding from state and federal agencies. these efforts, there is a lack of resources to NYCDEP also suggests fostering the do all that needs to get done. Neither development of a Conservancy that would individual organizations nor individual act as an umbrella organization to support agencies, acting alone, can accomplish the efforts to preserve and enhance the Bay. aggressive agenda outlined in this Jamaica Bay Watershed Protection Plan. Only Four strategies should be pursued to through coordinating separate efforts and coordinate the implementation of this Plan pooling resources will the strategies and ensure that its recommendations become recommended in this Plan be realized. actions:

October 1, 2007 17 Jamaica Bay Watershed Protection Plan

ƒ Form a Jamaica Bay Water Quality and auspices of the Soil and Water Ecological Restoration Committee under Conservation District to coordinate the the auspices of the NY/NJ Harbor public education and outreach Estuary Program (HEP) to coordinate components of the plan. the implementation of Water Quality ƒ Monitor and review growth and changes and Ecological Restoration strategies in the watershed over time. NYCDEP under this Plan. The Collaborative could will track new development in the be modeled after, or incorporated into, watershed and coordinate this effort the NY/NJ HEP which provides a with the Office of Environmental working example of multi-entity Coordination and appropriate federal, coordination within this region. State, and City governmental entities ƒ Continue to work through the Mayor’s that have jurisdiction over the Jamaica Office Interagency BMP Task Force to Bay area. The tracking of development implement BMPs by providing a vehicle data and BMP implementation data for cross-agency communication. The coupled with developing a robust Task Force will also play a key role in scientific monitoring program to track formulating City policy with respect to water quality and ecological restoration regulating and/or incentivizing BMP efforts over time (see Water Quality implementation. above), will ensure a comprehensive ƒ Continue the Jamaica Bay Education review of the impacts of changes in the Coordinating Committee under the watershed over time.

October 1, 2007 18 TABLE ES-1: Jamaica Bay Watershed Protection Plan Implementation Strategies Reduce Nitrogen Loading to the Tributaries and Jamaica Bay Implementation Strategy Description Schedule Estimated NYCDEP Cost Funded? Agency Carbon Addition NYCDEP will propose carbon addition at 26th TBD TBD N DEP Ward and Jamaica WPCPs as potential strategies to reduce nitrogen loadings during ongoing LTCP negotiations with NYSDEC. Carbon Addition Interim temporary facilities at 26th Ward will also 36-40 months TBD N DEP be considered. Minimize Centrate Processing from other WPCPs in NYCDEP will continue its efforts to minimize Ongoing NA NA DEP Jamaica Bay transshipment of sludge for processing in Jamaica Bay. Algal and Sea Lettuce Harvesting Pilot Study Harvest excess algae and sea lettuce to reduce Design anticipated to begin $387,000 Y DEP nitrogen and produce biodiesel fuels. Summer 2009. Algal Turf Scrubbers Pilot Study Remove nutrients and contaminants through Design anticipated to begin $350,000 Y DEP benthic organisms, bacteria and phytoplankton. Summer 2009. Oyster Reef Pilot Study Provide clearer water, improved fisheries habitat Design anticipated to begin $600,000 Y DEP through reintroduction of oyster reef. Summer 2008. Reintroduction of Eel Grass (Zostera marina) Pilot Fish habitat/Decreased wetland erosion loss. Design anticipated to begin $350,000 Y DEP Study Summer 2008. Ribbed Mussel Pilot Study Improve water quality and increase fish habitat. Design anticipated to begin $300,000 Y DEP

Nitrogen Reduction & Other Summer 2008. Reduce CSO and Other Discharges to Improve Pathogen and DO levels Implementation Strategy Description Schedule Estimated NYCDEP Cost Funded? Agency Expanded Sewer Cleaning Program Clean sewers programmatically; entire sewer Pilot project 2007; annual program $2.5 million annually plus new Partial DEP system would be cleaned every 7-10 years. to clean 7% of sewers. personnel and vehicles($876,500) 26th Ward/Fresh Creek Sewer Cleaning Clean sediment from selected sewers in 26th Final design in 2007. Project $4 million Y DEP Ward. scheduled to be completed in 2010.

Expanded Interceptor Inspection and Maintenance Inspection program to determine cleaning and Pilot studies in 2008; Citywide $200,000 for pilot; $4-5 million Y DEP maintenance needs throughout the City. Pilot inspection completed in 2010. over next 1-2 years project in fall to inspect E Rockaway interceptor. Sewer System System Sewer Maintenance Implementation Strategy Description Schedule Estimated NYCDEP Cost Funded? Agency 26th Ward 50 MGD Expansion Increase wet weather capacity from 170 MGD to Final design in 2010. Project $467 million Partial DEP 220 MGD. scheduled to be completed in 2015.

Paerdegat CSO Retention Basin 50 MGD facility to capture CSOs. Construction to be completed in $318 million Y DEP 2012. Inflow/Infiltration Study with Corrective Measures Identify and resolve sewer system anomalies. TBD $2 million/yr for engineering N DEP and $5 million/yr for corrective measures

Regulators in Bergen Basin Automation for#2; enlarge #3 orifice; new 48" Regulator #2 construction to begin $14 million Partial DEP siphon under Belt Parkway. in 2007. Remainder TBD.

Complete Sewer Separation in Rockaways Approximately 2,500 acres remain to be separated Ongoing $500 million Partial DEP in the Rockaways Sewer & Treatment Facility Facility & Treatment Sewer Improvements Infrastructure

Jamaica Bay Implementation Strategies 10/1/2007 Page 1 of 6 TABLE ES-1: Jamaica Bay Watershed Protection Plan Implementation Strategies Implementation Strategy Description Schedule Estimated NYCDEP Cost Funded? Agency Laurelton High Level Storm Sewers Separate storm sewers from sanitary sewers. Drainage Plan completed by Jan TBD N DEP, DDC 2008. Then cost and project timeline will be developed. Warnerville / Meadowmere Sewer Project Sanitary sewers, pump station and force main to Under construction; to be completed $30 million Y DEP deliver sewage to Jamaica WPCP. in 2009.

Jewel Streets Storm and Sanitary Sewers Install storm and sanitary sewers. In Design $26 million Partial DEP, DDC New Sanitary and Sewers Storm Implementation Strategy Description Schedule Estimated NYCDEP Cost Funded? Agency Install a Third Boat Pumpout Facility at Rockaway Reduce wastewater discharges from recreational Operational for 2008 boating $21,500 Y DEP WPCP boats directly into Bay. season.

Seek 4th Boat Pump Out and a No Discharge Once a fourth boat pumpout facility has been TBD TBD N DEP Designation for Jamaica Bay installed, DEP will initiate proceedings to create a No Discharge Zone for Jamaica Bay. Boat Pumpouts Increase DO Levels to Improve Ecological Productivity Implementation Strategy Description Schedule Estimated NYCDEP Cost Funded? Agency Dredge and Recontour Hendrix Creek To address CSO mounds, DO and ecological Final Design complete. Dredging $15.7 million Partial DEP goals. schedule TBD.

Pursue Dredging of Paerdegat Basin, Fresh Creek, To address CSO mounds, DO and ecological TBD $203 million for aeration and Partial DEP Bergen Basin and Thurston Basin goals. dredging

Support Army Corps ecological restoration projects To address DO and ecological goals. TBD NA NA USACE in Paerdegat Basin and Fresh Creek Remove CSO Remove CSO Sediment Mounds Implementation Strategy Description Schedule Estimated NYCDEP Cost Funded? Agency Pursue Aerators at Fresh Creek, Bergen Basin and Add oxygen to improve dissolved oxygen levels. Design from 2015 to 2017. $112.3 million N DEP Thurston Basin. Construction from 2018 to 2021.

Investigate Potential for Future Aeration in other Determine the need and efficacy of in-stream TBD TBD N DEP CSO and Non-CSO Tributaries aeration for other creeks in Jamaica Bay. Dissolved Dissolved Oxygen Robust Scientific Monitoring Implementation Strategy Description Schedule Estimated NYCDEP Cost Funded? Agency Enhanced Scientific Monitoring Program Develop enhanced water quality and ecological Announce enhanced monitoring TBD N DEP with monitoring program. Coordinate monitoring program Oct 2008. other among various entities. agencies/

Jamaica Bay Implementation Strategies 10/1/2007 Page 2 of 6 TABLE ES-1: Jamaica Bay Watershed Protection Plan Implementation Strategies Restoration Ecology Implementation Strategy Description Schedule Estimated NYCDEP Cost Funded? Agency Establish Salt Marsh Island Wetlands Priority Board would review restoration logistics and begin Review Board to be initiated shortly NA NA Multi- Restoration Review Board to establish a priority list of wetland restorations. agency

Marsh Island Wave Attenuator Pilot Install prefabricated attenuators to reduce wetland Design anticipated to begin $576,000 Y DEP erosion loss. Summer 2009.

Marsh Island Restoration Elders Point and others. Summer 2008 - Elders Point Elders Point: $3 million from Y (NYCDEP USACE, DEP - cost sharing from portion) DEC, DEP others. Salt Marsh Restoration Marsh Salt Implementation Strategy Description Schedule Estimated NYCDEP Cost Funded? Agency Complete Restoration of Penn Avenue Landfill, Ecological restoration of public land. Landfills currently in construction $20 million landfills; $10 million Y DEP Fountain Avenue Landfill, Paerdegat Basin and and will be completed in 2008; Paerdegat. Springfield Lake Paerdegat start construction 2009. See below for Springfield Lake.

Transfer HPD Properties in the Edgemere Section Continue to transfer 10 acres of land; design and Transfer to occur shortly. TBD N DEP, HPD, of Queens to Parks implement restoration project. Restoration efforts TBD. DPR Pursue Acquisition and Restoration Efforts in Other Determine status of subject properties; design and Field verify sites, place holds on TBD N Multi- Periphery Areas implement stormwater BMPs or restoration. property within 6 mos. Restoration agency TBD. Acquire Seagirt Avenue Properties in Rockaway, Leverage funds from multiple agencies to acquire TBD NA NA Multi- Queens lands. agency Update and Inventory Dune and Beach and Other Update inventory of existing habitats and coverage Begin inventory update in 2008; $400,000 Y DEP, other Habitats using GIS. approximately 1 year to complete. agencies

Expand Litter Removal and Reduction Programs Extend trash collection beyond Labor Day; Ongoing NA NA DEP, DPR NYCDEP sponsored clean-ups and plantings. Reduce the Extent of Invasive Vegetation Promote the importance of invasive species Ongoing TBD TBD DEP, other management. agencies Determine RTE Restoration Priorities and Targets Determine RTE Restoration Priorities and Targets Establish priorities species by NA NA DEP, other in coordinate with relevant stakeholders. October 2008. agencies Land Acquisition and Restoration Along Periphery of Bay

Jamaica Bay Implementation Strategies 10/1/2007 Page 3 of 6 TABLE ES-1: Jamaica Bay Watershed Protection Plan Implementation Strategies On-Site BMPs for New and Existing Development Implementation Strategy Description Schedule Estimated NYCDEP Cost Funded? Agency Green Roof / Blue Roof Pilot Study Monitor effectiveness of blue roof vs. green roof on Design anticipated to begin late $352,500 for Y DEP two existing commercial buildings. Compare 2007. design/construction; Plus results between blue and green roofs. monitoring costs Rain Barrel Give-away Pilot Study Distribute 1,000 rain barrels to homeowners. Design anticipated to begin $138,000 Y DEP Summer 2008.

Parking Lot Pilot Study Two 1.5 acre parking lots retrofitted to comply with Design anticipated to begin late $290,000 for Y DEP new DCP zoning regulations. 2007. design/construction; Plus monitoring costs NYCHA or HPD Pilot Study Retrofit an existing NYCHA or HPD property with Design anticipated to begin $550,000 Y DEP infiltration and detention BMPs. Summer 2009. Evaluate Rooftop Detention Promote on new construction; assess existing Begin in late 2007. $40,000 (see also cost sharing Y DEP & large rooftops. below) SWCD Porous Pavement on DEP Property Install and monitor pervious pavement on DEP Design anticipated to begin $442,000 Y DEP facility parking lots and other areas. Summer 2008.

Implementation Strategy Description Schedule Estimated NYCDEP Cost Funded? Agency Stormwater Rate Structure Study Evaluate alternative water, sewer, and stormwater Anticipated to begin in early 2008. TBD Anticipated DEP rate structures and potential credit programs for shortly BMPs. Incentive Programs Being investigated under the Mayor's Interagency Mayor's Interagency Task Force NA NA Mayor's Task Force Report anticipated to be completed Office in Fall 2008. Cost-Sharing Program Investigations Develop potential framework for design/build Begin in late 2008. $40,000 Y DEP & services incentive program. SWCD

Water Conservation Program 60 MGD savings through low flow fixture rebates 2008-2012 $186 million Partial DEP

Economic Incentives and cost sharing. Implementation Strategy Description Schedule Estimated NYCDEP Cost Funded? Agency Zoning Code Parking Lot Design Requirements Add landscaping and bioretention components to Text change certified on June 18, NA NA DCP with commercial and community facility parking lots 2007. Currently in approval process. DEP and over 6,000 sf or 18 spaces. DPR Code Review Review Sewer Code and make recommendations Anticipated to begin Summer 2008. $1 million (including BMP Y DEP for potential revisions to facilitate BMP installation. Design Manual)

BMP Design Manual Create companion guidance document to sewer Anticipated to begin Summer 2008. Part of Code Review cost Y DEP code revisions specific to NYC conditions.

CEQR Technical Manual Revision Revise CEQR Technical Manual to include a End of FY 2008 NA NA DEP/OEC specific section to address proposed developments in Jamaica Bay. Monitor Benefits of BMP Implementation Develop indicators to track effects of BMP To begin once implementation TBD TBD DEP & installations throughout the City over time. strategies begin. Mayor's Office Zoning Code Pervious Surfaces Requirements Potential front yard pervious requirements in R1- Fall 2007 NA NA DCP R5 zoning districts. Regulatory and Design Changes Pilot and Demonstration Projects

Jamaica Bay Implementation Strategies 10/1/2007 Page 4 of 6 TABLE ES-1: Jamaica Bay Watershed Protection Plan Implementation Strategies Off-Site BMPs on Streets, Sidewalks, Highway Right-of-Ways, and Vacant Lands Implementation Strategy Description Schedule Estimated NYCDEP Cost Funded? Agency Belt Parkway Bridges Demonstration Project Attenuate and reduce the direct stormwater In design $95,000 for design; $1.2 Y DEP, DOT discharge through BMPs. million for construction

Streetside Infiltration Swales Pilot Study Install three swales on six sites to capture runoff Design anticipated to begin late $510,000 for Y DEP from a roadway. 2007. design/construction; Plus monitoring costs Constructed Wetlands Pilot Study Construct wetland to capture runoff from a Design anticipated to begin late $510,000 for Y DEP roadway. 2007. design/construction; Plus monitoring costs Tree Pit Pilot Study Install five enhanced tree pits with stormwater Design anticipated to begin late $112,500 for Y DEP subsurface cistern. 2007. design/construction; Plus monitoring costs Vacant Parcels Pilot Study Implement stormwater parks on additional publicly- TBD based on Constructed TBD N DEP owned vacant parcels to capture stormwater Wetlands Pilot Study. runoff. Pilot and Demonstration Projects Implementation Strategy Description Schedule Estimated NYCDEP Cost Funded? Agency Zoning Code Review - Street Trees Potential requirement for new Fall 2007 NA NA DCP developments/enlargements to provide street trees. Regulat ory Implementation Strategy Description Schedule Estimated NYCDEP Cost Funded? Agency PlaNYC Street Tree Planting Street tree planting throughout the city including 23,000 trees planted annually NA NA DPR & Jamaica Bay watershed. citywide. Mayor's Office PlaNYC Greenstreets Initiative Fourteen new Greenstreets within Jamaica Bay Fall 2007; 3,000 new Greenstreets NA NA DPR & watershed. citywide by 2017. Mayor's Office East New York Community Forestry Management Increase street tree stocking level in East New Plant 850 trees in Brooklyn CB 5 NA NA DPR & Plan York. over next 10 years through PlaNYC Mayor's Street Tree Initiative. Office Baisley Pond Park Project Using stormwater BMPs, storm sewers will route Slated for construction in 2010. $3-4 million (estimated) Y DEP stormwater into Baisley Pond. Springfield Park Project Using stormwater BMPs, storm sewers will route In Design; construction is slated to $15 million (estimated) Y DEP stormwater into Springfield Lake. begin in 2009. Open Space and Greening Greening and Space Open Projects

Jamaica Bay Implementation Strategies 10/1/2007 Page 5 of 6 TABLE ES-1: Jamaica Bay Watershed Protection Plan Implementation Strategies Public Education and Outreach Implementation Strategy Description Schedule Estimated NYCDEP Cost Funded? Agency Enhance Jamaica Bay-related Educational Educational Resource Directory Prototype to be completed late $6,000 Y DEP, Curriculum 2007. NYCSWCD

Organize “State of the Bay” Scientific Symposium Coordinate/guide scientific investigations and First symposium Summer 2008. $20,000 not including venue Partial DEP, report scientific findings. Inform Plan updates. NYCSWCD

Create a targeted campaign for developers, Brochure on importance of the Bay, human Brochure to be completed in late $6,000 Y DEP, residents, and business owners to protect Jamaica activities in watershed, and pollutant reducing 2007. NYCSWCD Bay practices. Public Use and Enjoyment Implementation Strategy Description Schedule Estimated NYCDEP Cost Funded? Agency Rockaway /Gateway Greenway Establish an approximately 20-mile continuous Some portions are complete or NA NA DOT, DPR greenway loop around the Bay. nearing completion, others are to be determined. Laurelton and Cross Island Parkway Greenways Establish a 22-mile path through parkland; link Phase I was completed in 2006; NA NA DOT, DPR between Brooklyn/Queens Greenway and Jamaica Phase II is pending additional Bay waterfront. funding Southern Parkway Path and Conduit Boulevard Establish a greenway to connect Brooklyn/Queens TBD NA NA DOT, DPR Greenway system to Jamaica Bay waterfront.

Far Rockaway North Shore Greenway Establish a greenway to connect Far Rockaway In process with current HUD NA NA HUD with Rockaway Gateway Greenway development.

Floyd Bennett Field/Gateway National Recreation Capital projects within Gateway National TBD NA NA NPS Area Recreation Area.

Brooklyn/Queens Greenway -Eastern Parkway Greenway improvement including landscaping, Design underway; to be completed NA NA DOT, DPR, Extension multi-use paths, bike racks, pedestrian ramps, in June 2010. DCP traffic signals, etc. Public Access Public Implementation and Coordination Implementation Strategy Description Schedule Estimated NYCDEP Cost Funded? Agency Jamaica Bay Water Quality and Ecological Under Harbor Estuary Program organizational TBD NA N Multi- Restoration Steering Committee structure. agency BMP Implementation through Mayor's Office Mayor's BMP Task Force to coordinate BMP Ongoing NA NA Multi- Interagency BMP Task Force implementation strategies. agency Education Steering Committee Continue committee's efforts to implement Ongoing $75,000 Partial DEP, education and outreach strategies. NYCSWCD

Monitor and Review Changes to the Watershed Track new development, BMP implementation, and Ongoing TBD N DEP/OEC overall growth in the watershed in coordination with other agencies. Plan ImplementationPlan Raise Awareness

Jamaica Bay Implementation Strategies 10/1/2007 Page 6 of 6