Bluebelt

The Bluebelt includes structural and nonstructural stormwater management control measures taken to mitigate changes to both quantity and quality of runoff caused through changes to land use.

The overall goal is to provide the necessary stormwater drainage infrastructure for a 12,000-acre (49 km2) region on the southern end of the island while at the same time preserving the last freshwater wetlands in New York City.

BMPs used in the bluebelt include stormwater wetlands, stream restoration, outlet stilling basins, and sand filters.

In order to integrate the wetlands into the natural ecology, the construction process is advised by restoration specialists since general contractors are typically not trained in proper plant selection and installation.

The planting design focuses on quick establishment of the preferred successional communities that will complement the surrounding landscape, before invasive species take over the site.