Public art on Conover Street, by Brian Abate

The New York City Emergency Management Department and the Red Hook Community Justice Center partnered for the Red Hook Beautification Project for the Atlantic Basin temporary flood measures. Members from both the Emergency Management Department and the Justice Center proudly announced the completion of the project on Nov. 16.

Pictures that were taken by 10 students who participated in the Justice Center’s “Just Arts Photography” program in the Spring of 2022 are now showcased on the Interim Flood Protection Measures (IFPM) that are along the Atlantic Basin.

“Ten years ago, the Red Hook community was severely impacted by Hurricane Sandy,” said Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol. “And I am so proud of these youth for using their artistic abilities to illustrate the resiliency of our city while educating themselves and others about the mitigation measures New York City uses to protect our communities from future storm surges.”

The “Just Arts Photography” program lasted 12 weeks and encouraged students to explore their artistic self-expression. The Beautification Project allows them to showcase their artwork while also helping the community.

“The Red Hook Community Justice Center was honored to support NYC Emergency Management with our participation in their community beautification project, as an effort to acknowledge our resilience since Sandy and the impact of unity and community healing,” said the Deputy Director of the Justice Center, Marcus Scurry.

There are a lot of great pictures and they certainly make the usually-dreary-looking flood barriers look beautiful.