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Since 2007, Bronxville had endured nearly $30 million in damages during major storms due to periodic flooding in the Midland Valley Drainage Basin near the high school. As a result, the district has proposed a $6.8 million plan, 75 percent of which will be paid through a FEMA grant.
According to Paul Pelusio, the engineer who presented the district’s plan, the plan includes installing a large network of pipes under Hayes Field that would detain floodwater and prevent it from backing up into the school. In addition, a dedicated pipe would be installed, running behind Village Hall to deliver storm water back into the Bronx River.
A storm water pumping station, located on the Midland Avenue side of the school, would also be utilized during and after flooding. The district has allotted five months to ascertain the proper permits and environmental impact reviews.
Because Hayes Field would need to be completely torn up for this project, the Board of Education has also proposed installing a turf field to maximize game and practice space. KG&D, the district’s architects, have proposed a $1.5 million design that would allow the school to maintain its current playground, while creating an additional parking lot on Meadow Road.
According to Superintendent David Quattrone, Board Members have discussed the value of the plan, noting that the plan won't add a new field, but will allow for more scheduling flexibility and a better playing surface for students of all ages.
If approved, the preliminary design for the projects could be finished as early as next month, with the finalized design expected before the end of the summer. The contract is expected to be awarded in October, with construction starting thereafter. The project should be completed by the beginning of the 2015 school year.
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