Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced the kickoff off a $60 million “Living Breakwaters” barrier that will provide critical defenses against coastal erosion and grow the natural habitat for finfish, shellfish and crustations on the south shore of Staten Island. The Governor’s Office of Storm Recovery will today begin gathering data to assist in construction of Living Breakwaters to ensure full consideration for the natural environment.

“This project will make Staten Island the model for resilience and innovation,” said Governor Cuomo in a press statementlaunching the project. “It is fitting that the first Rebuild by Design project to be implemented will be to protect these communities from the severe weather that is a result of our changing climate.”