“The centerpiece of that proposal is looking at an integrated dike that would run along the northern edge of [Long Beach], primarily to protect against bayside flooding,” said Georgeen Theodore, principal member of the Interboro team. “But it would also create a new recreational space along the north shore of the barrier island that would allow people to connect with the bay.”

The project would be implemented in five stages, and includes plans to replenish sand and soil in lowland areas. Marshlands along the South Shore would be redeveloped, main roads raised and bayfront homes elevated. Storm water swales — plots of vegetation-filled land that filter water naturally — would be created, along with a more ecologically sound infrastructure and new development to strengthen north- and south-running streets.

After Sandy, when Donovan first saw the piles of debris in Long Beach where houses once stood, he said, he knew that something had to be done. “The sad truth is that these storms have been repeated over and over again, throughout the country,” he said. “These storms will strike again. Will we be prepared?”

Of Interboro’s plan, he added, “They have a balance of feasible projects plus a partnership with the affected communities. The Interboro project has created the perfect opportunity for a partnership with the whole community. One of their main goals is to protect the bay and the water. It’s making sure that the citizens have access to clean water to drink and a strong infrastructure to protect them. This is very important for the whole bay.”

A main component of the plan focuses on the North Park community — an area prone to flooding — and includes resiliency measures to protect residents and critical infrastructure there, such as the Long Beach sewage treatment plant, a LIPA substation and the water purification plant.