Project Description: The Borden Avenue Pump Station is being upgraded to meet resiliency and operational requirements. This is a combined sewer pumping station located in a commercial area of Queens. The upgrade is focused on making the pump station more reliable during extreme wet weather events by installing submersible equipment and elevating critical electrical and control equipment to above the design flood elevation, based on the community Climate Risk Assessment and Adaptation Plan. Key elements of this project include installing new submersible sewage pumps; converting the existing dry well into a wet well; installing new hatches, cranes and hoists, and new electrical and control equipment; and provisions to support increasing capacity, with a corresponding increase to the building footprint.

Improving current and future community sustainability was identified as an important goal for this project, as the focus is on upgrading an existing piece of critical wastewater infrastructure to meet tomorrow’s needs. Detailed resiliency goals and risk evaluations were established, informing the design. The project also prioritizes effective use and management of materials, with specific targets around construction waste diversion from landfills, the amount of project materials obtained from sustainable sources, and use of recycled materials.

Award Level and Status: Envision Gold; Under construction.

Public Agency: NYC DEP. The Department manages New York City’s water supply, providing approximately 1 billion gallons of high-quality drinking water each day to nearly 10 million residents, including 8.8 million in New York City. For more information, visit their website here.