DRAINAGE DESIGN CASE STUDY:
Concrete Retaining Wall Drainage | NYC DDC Staten Island Upgrade
The New York City Department of Design and Construction (NYC DDC) upgraded the drainage system behind concrete retaining walls along Huguenot Avenue and Swaim Avenue in Staten Island to reduce hydrostatic pressure and protect critical infrastructure. The new system includes JET Filter maintainable weep holes, helping extend the lifespan of the wall structure and reduce long-term maintenance

Why Concrete Retaining Wall Drainage Matters in Dense Environments
Urban sites like Staten Island are especially vulnerable to:
Water buildup behind retaining walls
Freeze-thaw damage in colder months
Soil erosion and foundation weakening
Structural wall failure without adequate water relief
The NYC DDC project prioritized low-maintenance, long-lasting drainage solutions for long-term reliability in a space-limited city setting.
Solution
Working with Inter Contracting Corp., the team installed:
✅4” ASTM 316/316L Stainless Steel Housing
✅Geotextile Media: Mirafi® Filter-Weave FW 300
✅Strategically installed through concrete barriers for maximum efficiency
These components support long-term hydrostatic pressure relief, protect surrounding structures, and are easily accessible for cleaning and inspection—critical in high-density environments.
At a Glance
Project Location: Huguenot Ave & Swaim Ave, Staten Island, NY
Project Type: Concrete Retaining Wall Drainage
Drainage Components: 30 JET Filter JF4SS Weep Holes
Material Type: Steel Sheet Piling
Owner/Engineer: NYC Department of Design and Construction
Contractor: Inter Contracting Corp.
Completion Date: November 2024
Market Segment: Urban Infrastructure / Drainage
Installed (30) JET Filter JF4SS Units
View Sheet Piling Trifold
