NY storm commission urges flood walls for subways

The measures in the report include:

— Raising some rail lines and signals above projected flood levels.

— Waterproofing subways and electronics sensitive to saltwater.

— Greater attention to the drinking water supply. The state's 30- and 40-year-old wastewater systems statewide were overwhelmed by storms the last two years, the report said.

— Burying key energy lines underground to reduce damage from downed wires.

— A rapid bus transit network in dedicated lanes to reduce dependence on subways in lower Manhattan and allow exits to outer boroughs.

— Well-stocked and disaster-protected safe havens with generators in schools, hospitals and government buildings as well as big-box stores and shopping malls willing to be sanctuaries in exchange for incentives and support.

— Adding water pumps at airports with emergency generators that, along with other measures, would have kept airports open during Sandy. The report notes airports are a critical piece in long-term relief efforts.

— Allowing the growth of new grasses in wetland such as the Fire Island Wilderness breach. This would be part of more natural and man-made barriers that could also increase public access to the shore and reduce "urban heat island effects."

— Installing barriers and gates to prevent flooding of docks and ports.

— A state fuel depot.

— Coordination of skilled residents such as electricians to respond to disaster and training for all residents to respond to disaster.

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Online:

Report: http://bit.ly/VUP7vv