Question: Provide an update on the Waterfront Small Area Plan Implementation project, impacts of pump station study and NPS decision regarding pump station. (Vice Mayor Bagley)
Response:
The Waterfront Flood Mitigation Project has advanced to the 30% design milestone, and the associated development plan review submissions (DSUP and Grading Plan) were completed as scheduled. As the project team began preparing and evaluating the 30% cost estimates, staff received Council direction in late September 2025 to assess the feasibility and cost implications of relocating the pump station to 1 Prince Street in response to stakeholder and Waterfront Commission requests. The design process was paused, and Task Orders were issued to conduct a cost assessment and tradeoff analysis for the 1 Prince Street alternative. This evaluation is currently underway, and staff anticipates presenting the alternative options to City Council this spring. On February 20, 2026, The National Park Service (NPS) unexpectedly reversed its long-standing support for the City’s deed modification request, which is required to construct the pump station in Waterfront Park as planned. NPS now considers the pump station an “impermissible use” within the park, a position that conflicts with its prior statements and recognition of the project’s public benefits. Due to this change, an alternative approach will be required.
In light of these developments, alternative project concepts are being developed and will be further evaluated. The development review and permitting processes will remain on hold until the feasibility and cost of these alternatives are further assessed. A revised project schedule will be developed accordingly.