TODT HILL — Repairs to a broken drain on Todt Hill Road have begun in an effort to alleviate chronic flooding on the street, City Councilman Steven Matteo announced.
The Department of Environmental Protection spotted a damaged drainage basin and storm line at Todt Hill and Circle roads while studying solutions to the flooding. Work started on it earlier this month.
"Repairing the drainage infrastructure that was already in place on Todt Hill Road will make it safer for drivers and residents who have to travel on that road frequently, and provide some real relief while other projects work their way through the capital design process," Matteo said in a statement.
"This is not a silver bullet to the flooding problems that have plagued this area, but it certainly will help."
In December, the DEP started a feasibility study to add a new storm drain to Todt Hill Road which is overwhelmed by water during heavy rains.
During the study, DEP engineers found the collapsed drainage basin at the intersection that was connected to a damaged storm pipe, Matteo said. Crews expect the fix to be complete by the end of this month.
"Flooding can impact public safety and the quality of life for residents so we are excited to advance this drainage work on Todt Hill Road," DEP acting commissioner Vincent Sapienza said in a statement.
The city has several projects in the works to help the flooding, including an expansion of a nearby retention pond.
But Matteo previously called on the DEP to study quick fixes while the long term work progresses.
