Congressman Himes and Army Corps detail bridge project to reduce flooding in Port Chester

The Town Council of Greenwich held a significant meeting on April 22, 2025, to discuss the ongoing Byram River Flood Risk Management Project, which aims to mitigate flooding risks for local residents. The project is currently in the design phase, with officials emphasizing the urgency of its completion due to the potential dangers posed by flooding.

Congressman Jim Himes highlighted the complexities involved in the project, which spans both Connecticut and New York. He noted that while the bridges affected by the project are located in New York, the health and safety of Connecticut residents are at stake. This cross-state collaboration adds layers of complexity to the permitting and construction processes, but Himes assured residents that efforts are being made to expedite these steps.

Colonel Kenneth Young from the Army Corps of Engineers reaffirmed the commitment to the project, stating that the team is dedicated to moving forward efficiently. He acknowledged the challenges but expressed confidence in the capabilities of the project team. The goal is to complete the construction of two new bridges over the Byram River within two construction seasons, which is crucial for reducing flooding risks.

The project, which includes the removal and replacement of the existing Route 1 bridges, is designed to alleviate upstream flooding caused by bottlenecks in the river flow. The new bridges will be constructed at a higher elevation and without center piers, which are currently contributing to flooding issues.

In addition to the bridge construction, the meeting addressed other community concerns, such as drainage issues in Greenwich. While the Army Corps of Engineers is focused on the bridges, local officials are tasked with addressing these municipal matters.

As the project progresses, officials are working on obtaining necessary permits and coordinating with various stakeholders, including state departments from both Connecticut and New York. The timeline for the project anticipates starting construction in the spring or summer of 2027, contingent upon the completion of design plans and the acquisition of required easements.

This project represents a critical step towards enhancing flood resilience in the Greenwich community, with officials urging residents to remain informed and engaged as the process unfolds. The collaboration between federal, state, and local agencies underscores the importance of a unified approach to managing flood risks and protecting the safety of residents.