The NYCHA Journal

The NYCHA Journal has informed and inspired residents since 1970, covering the news, contributions, and uplifting stories of the NYCHA community while providing the latest information on Authority initiatives.

Blueprint for Change NYCHA 2.0 Top Story 

Boiler System Upgrades on Track for Winter Debut

Vincent Echavaria

New heating system upgrades are nearly complete for NYCHA residents living at two Brooklyn developments and one property in Manhattan.  

All new equipment has been installed and is awaiting final testing for boiler replacement projects at Fiorentino Plaza and Long Island Baptist Houses in Brooklyn as well as Robinson Houses in Harlem. All three projects are more than 90 percent complete and are slated to be fully operational in February 2021.   

Each of the three projects involved the replacement of two steam boilers along with associated pumps, piping, and valves. Hot water heat exchangers were replaced with 20, 15, and two gas-fired hot water heaters, respectively, at Fiorentino Plaza, Long Island Baptist, and Robinson Houses. The system upgrades will provide more consistent and comfortable heat for residents. 

Ashley Kebreau of NYCHA’s Capital Projects team noted that this effort was made possible with support from Mayor Bill de Blasio.  

“NYCHA is making efforts towards the city’s 80-percent reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by 2050,” Ms. Kebreau said. “NYCHA staff, along with the supporting design and construction teams, have been working continuously to improve the lives of NYCHA residents. Heat and hot water system upgrades were provided to meet the growing demands and ensure safe, consistent, and efficient energy. The residents at these NYCHA developments will be able to enjoy these upgrades this heating season.”   

This work was supported by a combination of City and federal funds. The $13.3 million Fiorentino Plaza project included approximately $12.5 million in federal funds, while the $7.6 million Robinson project involved $7.1 million in federal funding and the $6.4 million project at Long Island Baptist received $5.9 million in federal funds. 

They are among 10 boiler replacement projects that are expected to be conducted across NYCHA’s portfolio through 2023. 

Photo caption: Aerial view of the existing fuel tank and the installed temporary boiler at Robinson Houses in Harlem.