Coalition in Puerto Rico Presents Alternative Solutions to Build Flood Resilience along the Puerto Nuevo River

(SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO – February 27, 2024) - Today the Rio Piedras Watershed Community Coalition publicly presented alternative solutions to build flood resilience and promote climate adaptation through the Puerto Nuevo River Flood Control Project, which was proposed by the Department of Natural and Environmental Resources and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The coalition is made up of various community groups and leaders dedicated to building flood resilience in a way that responsibly protects the river basin and its communities and ecosystems.  

“Environmental Defense Fund supports the requests made by the Rio Piedras Watershed Community Coalition and calls on decision makers to study alternative solutions that will build flood resilience and promote climate adaptation.  

“Solutions we support include community engaged planning and action that meets the priorities of residents and ensures housing needs are met, as well as incorporates the best available science and prioritizes nature-based solutions. We also encourage creating a review committee comprised of multiple levels of government, with coalition representatives to provide guidance from scientists, planners and designers. In addition, we believe it is essential to continue dialogue with the community and seek their participation during the flood planning process.  

“By collaborating alongside the coalition and other relevant stakeholders to revise the Puerto Nuevo River Flood Control Project, the Department of Natural and Environmental Resources and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers can enhance the existing flood damage reduction plans to ensure a future where the Rio Piedras Basin thrives in harmony with the residents and communities it supports.” 

- Braulio Quintero, Director, Puerto Rico, Environmental Defense Fund 

- Emily Steinhilber, Director, Climate Resilient Coasts and Watersheds, Environmental Defense Fund