NEW YORK CITY — A $60 million project that would grow oysters on man-made reefs off the shore of Staten Island has been approved by the federal government.
The addition, called "Living Breakwaters," is designed to protect the borough from future storms.
The money is part of nearly $1 billion in grants awarded to the state for various storm protection measures.
The "Living Breakwater" is a series of concrete reefs to be built in Tottenville.
"It's great, it's really exciting," said Gena Wirth, one of the projects lead designers. "Now it really hinges upon New York state to advance the project and set the timeline."
The project aims to reduce the height and intensity of waves during storms, Wirth previously said. They also plan to include oysters to the reef.
The oysters will help strengthen the breakwaters and help break waves, Wirth said. They also act as a filtration system for oceans, ingesting water and keeping toxins inside.
