The historic storm that hit Westchester County in September 2023 caused significant flooding and travel disruptions in the region. One of the areas severely affected was the Sprain Brook Parkway, a major roadway connecting Yonkers to the Bronx. The parkway was closed due to flooding, causing inconvenience for commuters and residents in the area.
Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency in Westchester County, and the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) worked around the clock to address the flooding and ensure the public’s safety.
Sprain Brook Parkway Flooding
The Sprain Brook Parkway, a 29.59-mile-long parkway in Westchester County, experienced significant flooding during the storm. The southbound ramp to the Bronx was closed, and the parkway was shut down between the split with the Bronx River Parkway in Yonkers and Main Street. The Yonkers Fire Department was called in to pump out water from the basements of homes in a residential cul-de-sac near the parkway, highlighting the extent of the flooding in the area.
Impact on Travel and Transit
The flash flooding caused by the storm had numerous travel and transit impacts in the region. Commuters were urged to exercise extreme caution, and parts of New York City, Long Island, and the Hudson Valley remained under a Flash Flood Warning. The NYSDOT reported several highway closures, including the Southern State Parkway westbound at Exit 13 in the Town of Hempstead. The closure of the Sprain Brook Parkway added to the already challenging travel conditions in the area.
Cleanup and Recovery Efforts
In the aftermath of the storm, the Lower Hudson Valley began cleaning up and recovering from the torrential rains and heavy flooding. Bridge inspection teams were on standby to assess any damaged roads or bridges, and the NYSDOT worked to reopen highways and ensure safe passage for the public. As the floodwaters receded, residents and local authorities worked together to restore normalcy in the affected areas.
The Sprain Brook Parkway flooding during the historic storm in September 2023 caused significant disruptions in Westchester County. The closure of the parkway and other highway closures in the region added to the challenges commuters and residents face. However, the swift response from the NYSDOT and local authorities and the community’s resilience helped in the cleanup and recovery efforts. As the region continues rebuilding, lessons learned from this event will contribute to better preparedness for future storms and flooding.