Safeguarding NYC’s Subway with FloodBreak’s Vent Protection for MTA – NYCT

Client

New York City Transit (NYCT)

Location

New York City, NY

Installation Date

2008

Product

Vent Flood Protection Device

Saves from FLooding

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In 2008, New York City Transit (NYCT) partnered with FloodBreak to create an innovative flood protection device for subway vents, automatically closing during flash floods while allowing airflow during dry times. Following the success of this solution, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) commissioned FloodBreak to design additional vent gate systems post-Superstorm Sandy, resulting in over 1,500 units now protecting vulnerable subway vents across New York City.

Background

In 2008, NYCT was looking for a solution to protect subway vents from flash flooding that would overpower pump systems & flood the subway.

Solution

FloodBreak designed an innovative flood protection device based on their proven passive floodgate technology that would close automatically during flash floods but remain open during dry times and allow critical airflow to move into the subterranean system.

Results

Years later when Superstorm Sandy devastated NYC and the NYCT subway system, the MTA again asked FloodBreak to design a similar vent gate system to protect against coastal storms.  FloodBreak continues to manufacture the custom-sized devices that protect Lower Manhattan and other vulnerable vent openings in other boroughs. Over 1500 units now protect MTA vents.

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