“NYC as a Vernal Pool: Re-thinking Nuisance Flooding” explores the potential of nuisance flooding as an opportunity to address both ecosystem health and urban quality of life. Drawing inspiration from vernal pools—seasonal wetlands that provide critical ecological functions through alternating cycles of flooding and dryness—the project reimagines New York City’s historical identity as a wetland within the harsh urban landscape of today. By understanding vernal pools’ role as overflow systems that support native species and cyclical biodiversity, the research investigates their relevance to urban hydrology and flood management. Centered on a high-nuisance flooding corridor in Longwood, Bronx, the project envisions adaptive infrastructure that integrates ecological principles to create resilient, multifunctional spaces for both natural systems and urban communities.
