West Haven Tour – June 2015

On June 11, 2015, CAFM and UConn’s Connecticut Institute for Resilience and Climate Adaptation (CIRCA) sponsored a session with the City of West Haven including a discussion and rout of the City’s coastal resiliency initiatives.  The City of West Haven suffered extensive damages as a result of both Tropical Storm Irene and Superstorm Sandy and is taking steps to address coastal flooding.  Approximately 35 people attended the session.

The City has been successful in securing grant funds for resiliency projects, notably the buyout of flood damaged and vulnerable properties.  Attendees were given a guided tour of the sites where resiliency measures have been undertaken or are planned to be implemented.

The tour began with a presentation at West Haven City Hall and a welcome from Mayor Edward O’Brien.  West Haven staff presented an overview of the City’s flood-impacted areas and provided a summary of projects that have been undertaken or are planned.  In addition to property buyouts and home elevations, various infrastructure projects have been initiated including self-regulating tide gates to allow normal daily exchange of tidal waters into bay areas but incorporate floats to close the gates during periods of extreme high tides.  Other projects include elevation of coastal roadways to minimize damage and provide reliable access during floods.  Improvements to the sewage treatment plan effluent outflow are planned, as this line has suffered damage from coastal erosion and is vulnerable to further damage from coastal flooding.

Attendees who are CFM’s are eligible for 1 CEC for this session.  If you do not receive your certificate by mail, please contact us at contactCAFM [at] gmail.com.