Introduction

Mike Segar/Reuters

In September, The Times reported that New York City might be “moving too slowly to address the potential for flooding that could paralyze transportation, cripple the low-lying financial district and temporarily drive hundreds of thousands of people from their homes.”

This week, the theory was tested, as Hurricane Sandy flooded parts of all five boroughs. Could sea gates or storm barriers help to prevent future flooding in New York City? Are they cost effective? Or is there a better alternative?