Nassau Bay to test gas-driven pump to reduce storm power vulnerability

City staff and elected officials described preparations for hurricane season and a demonstration of a gas-driven turbine pump designed to reduce reliance on grid power for critical stormwater pumping.

S1 said the city has been preparing for a potentially active hurricane season, ensuring generators are ready and replacing failing aerators at Lake Nassau. He added crews have installed wiring and are planning to trial a gas-turbine pump on Upper Bay Road to allow pumps to operate without electric power. "The that means a plus side is up until 6 feet. It'll run," S2 explained, noting that above that level the motor would need replacement.

Officials said the demonstration aims to evaluate cost-benefit tradeoffs and whether the approach can be implemented at additional locations; S2 and other staff suggested at least three sites were feasible. The city is evaluating durability, quick-connect coupling options and operational logistics for removal when no longer needed.

Separately, S2 noted many of the existing check ("red") valves in discharge lines are old and likely dysfunctional; staff are capping one valve to enable other mitigation work and reduce backflow risks. No formal procurement decision was announced; the demonstration is described as a near-term test to inform future investments.