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Protecting Lower Manhattan from Climate Change: A Panel Discussion about the FiDi & Seaport Climate Resilience Plan
April 15, 2026
On April 14, 2026, LAI members and guests gathered for an engaging panel discussion on the FiDi & Seaport Climate Resilience Plan. The panel featured Rachel Aaronson of the NYC Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) and Jordan Salinger of the Mayor’s Office of Climate and Environmental Justice, and was expertly moderated by LAI member Lisa Chamberlain.
The event began with an overview of the so-called “Big U” plan—a series of coastal resilience projects extending from the East River side of Manhattan around to Battery Park City on the Hudson River. The panelists then turned specifically to the FiDi & Seaport component, which is designed to provide two levels of flood protection along the shoreline: a lower level to protect against daily tidal flooding and an upper level to protect against coastal storms. These interventions will also create new park space and support the rebuilding of docks and ferry terminal buildings.
The discussion then shifted to the challenges of designing, implementing, and funding the plan. Panelists outlined the need to strike the right balance among competing priorities—maximizing flood protection, enhancing neighborhood value, minimizing costs, and securing timely project approvals.
The program concluded with a lively Q&A session. Attendees posed thoughtful questions about how the new protections could unlock value for adjacent property owners and businesses, as well as how the expanded green space might better integrate with the city grid.
Thank you to all our members and guests for attending and contributing to such a thoughtful and interactive discussion.
