TF Cornerstone files for climate change additions to LIC project

TF Cornerstone is trying to get its new Long Island City project on solid ground in the midst of climate change. 

The developer filed plans with the Department of City Planning last week to build “an undulating edge of cut granite stones” along the southern waterfront at 2-20 and 2-21 Malt Drive, Crain’s reported.

Bud North LLC and Bud South LLC, the development team listed on the plans, said the damage “was caused by inundation of wave action and higher than expected flooding levels” to the area. The modification would serve as a barrier to protect the shore from further wave erosion. 

The development team did not indicate whether they would need to make any further adjustments, but said, “since sea levels are continuing to rise as a result of climate change, wave action and flooding will only continue to worsen in this area.” 

They also did not indicate the costs for the repairs.  

The Malt Drive project, a 33-story high-rise and a building with two towers on a shared podium, was raised to help protect the property from nearby waters. 

The properties contain 1,386 residential units and are supposed to start leasing this summer with a few hundred units subject to the affordable housing lottery. 

Rising sea levels have been forecasted in the coming years and developers cautioned to consider the impact on property. As sea levels rise, water could move further inland and endanger more properties, along with other climate catastrophes like wildfires and the bottom lines of towns and communities, particularly those reliant on property tax values.

-Christina Previte