Structural strength of materials is also tested, such as in cases of storm wave resiliency. Next, physical hydrodynamic modelling is performed to detect flow of water and possible sedimentation build up. Surveys of habitat documentation, gradations of rock porosity, and recast ecological concrete are all tested for their intended individual functioning and to reach the overall goal- “ foster a dynamic, underwater, new form of habitat.” The first step is a large effort towards existing data collection both within the site at Staten Island and from the proposed design elements. Through a massive multidisciplinary effort, Howe describes how SCAPE’s process leads to significant and accurate data collection to validate their efforts in the eyes of state, local, and federal agencies, those responsible for the protection of coastal areas. “ reimagines coastal risk reduction as a layered approach” between culture, ecology, and risk reduction. The project goes beyond simply installing breakwaters, though, as he describes the feature as just a “moment” within a larger working system. Living Breakwaters is a Rebuild By Design winner and was Howe’ fist project with the firm. SCAPE’s recent coastal work aims to reinvent New York’s edge through their Living Breakwaters project. Further, its these same industrial edges that put pressure on the existing “soft” shorelines, leading to their erosion and demise. “The frequency which with we experience water and its capability of destruction is only increasing,” Howe states as he describes the hard edge’s role in poor stormwater infrastructure. The importance of water does not go unnoticed to Brad Howe, PLA and Senior Associate at SCAPE. Bulkheads and concrete walls create a stark divide between people and the water they live on all the while diminishing critical habitat. There is a structural reasoning- even with over 520 miles of city shoreline, most is what’s considered “hard”. From its soaring skyscrapers to its vast and unique parks system, the fact that water plays a significant geographical and historical role perhaps falls to the wayside. New York City’s landscape has much to offer.
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