The Hunters Point North Community Coalition, in partnership with the Long Island City Coalition, has released its Vision Plan for Resiliency, a groundbreaking initiative that places climate-conscious development at the heart of a rapidly transforming neighborhood along the Queens, NY, shoreline. This community-driven plan establishes a framework that balance social, economic, and environmental priorities—fostering sustainable and equitable neighborhood growth by integrating climate resilience into urban development.
Located along the northern shoreline of Long Island City, Hunters Point North has increasingly faced climate-related challenges, from tidal flooding to more severe storm events. The lasting impact of Superstorm Sandy emphasized the critical need for a comprehensive strategy to mitigate these escalating risks. Building on the success of Hunters Point South’s renowned shoreline resiliency park, developed through community-informed master planning, the Vision Plan extends this model northward. By collaborating with the Hunters Point North community to expand the resilient waterfront toward Queensbridge, the plan promotes sustainable development, protects public assets, and supports local businesses, while creating new opportunities driven by the emerging green economy.
The Vision Plan incorporates a range of innovative community planning and design approaches, centered around four key organizing principles: resiliency, equity, balance, and connections. These principles are essential in addressing climate change challenges, particularly in areas prone to coastal hazards like storm surge and sea level rise. VHB played a crucial role on the Nautilus team, providing a combination of neighborhood planning and design, digital stakeholder engagement, GIS analytics, digital modeling, and visualization support.
A significant aspect of the plan involves incorporating innovative approaches, such as integrating smart community technologies like Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure and Climate Monitoring Systems. Additionally, the Vision Plan emphasizes the importance of creating new connections that reduce emissions and activate waterways, further enhancing the neighborhood's overall livability.
“The Vision Plan for Resiliency emerged from an inclusive and community-based planning process, bringing together diverse voices and perspectives,” said Andrew Buck, Senior Urban Planner and Technologist. “This collective effort reflects our shared commitment to transforming Hunters Point North into a model of urban resilience and innovation. It’s a testament to what can be achieved when we work hand in hand toward a common goal.”
As the Hunters Point North community looks toward a resilient future, the Vision Plan stands as a model of sustainable and equitable development, reflecting the area's unique strengths and potential. With a proactive approach and a united vision, Hunters Point North is well-positioned to navigate the challenges of climate change while fostering a thriving, connected community for generations to come.
Learn more about VHB’s resiliency solutions or contact Andrew Buck today.
