Report by NYC’s Mayor Bloomberg Will Lay Groundwork for Vital National Discussion

WASHINGTON, DC (June 11, 2013) – Later today, New York City Mayor Bloomberg will unveil a report he commissioned in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy on the state of city’s preparedness during Hurricane Sandy and in preparation for future storms. The following is a statement from BlueGreen Alliance Executive Director David Foster:

“Mayor Bloomberg is leading an important discussion on the state of the city’s infrastructure, especially as we enter another hurricane season. It is a discussion that more mayors and community leaders should have because it will better protect communities and benefit local economies. This report also builds off the important report released in January by NYS2100 that makes recommendations to improve the strength and resilience of New York State’s infrastructure and workforce needs.

“When it comes to our roads and bridges, wastewater, transit and communications systems, we get what we pay for. Hurricane Sandy revealed long-term investments in these systems have been deferred for too long. There’s a tremendous need to fix New York’s infrastructure and that of other vulnerable communities across the country in a way that also recognizes the effects of climate change.

“Fixing our failing systems can also help address climate change by reducing water and energy waste. In New York City in 2008, the water supply system leaked an estimated 36 million gallons of water a day. Though strides have been made to quell the leaks, the fact remains that those leaks don’t just waste precious water, they also waste the energy needed to pump the water, creating more greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change. Even a five percent reduction in water leaks nationally could stop 225,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide from being emitted and would save enough energy to power 31,000 homes. We can reduce pollution, create good jobs for workers, and keep our communities safe by acting now.

“We applaud Mayor Bloomberg’s leadership on this important issue and look forward to furthering this discussion with national leaders.”