New York City Department of Design and Construction

DDC is partnering with NYC Water on replacing distribution water mains along 7th Avenue between West 14th Street and West 34th Street, including select cross streets from 6th Avenue to 8th Avenue.

Some of the water mains are 140 years old, so these upgrades will help prevent any future water main breaks.

Located at the busy intersection of Central and Mott Avenues and designed by the renowned architectural firm Snøhetta, the new Far Rockaway Library, which opened in 2024, is as much the centerpiece of the revitalization of Downtown Far Rockaway as it is an inspiring space for learning, discovery, growth, and community connection.

Commissioner Ochoa recently spoke with Brianna, the Youth Justice Coordinator at the library, as well as several students to learn about what makes this library so special and meaningful to them.

cc: Queens Public Library

DDC is building a more resilient Queens.

Yesterday, we cut the ribbon to an upgraded cricket field at Idlewild Park. This $78 million project installed water mains along Springfield Lane and also installed new sewer mains right beneath the field. These upgrades are part of a much more extensive, ongoing project that will make Idlewild more resistant to heavy rainstorms and protect the wetlands.

The work is part of the $2.7 billion Southeast Queens Initiative. The program features over 40 projects designed to alleviate chronic flooding, upgrade storm and sanitary sewers, and reconstruct streets.

With the start of hurricane season, now is the time to prepare. You can find info about the City's hurricane evacuation zones, the hazards you may face from a hurricane, and what to do to prepare here: nyc.gov/KnowYourZone

DDC is delivering projects faster to communities thanks to design-build.

Commissioner Ochoa recently stopped by the Brownsville Multi-Service Center, joined by Assistant Commissioner Bailey, Deputy Director Murjas, and Project Manager Bass for a walk-through of the facility, highlighting some of their favorite spots.

The Center will serve as a community hub equipped with a teaching kitchen, community garden, green roofs and more.

It will also feature the artwork installation “I Am Protected” by Brooklyn-based artist Jazmine Hayes, who was born and raised in East New York. The installation, commissioned by the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs's program, will include four art pieces that will be placed throughout the building and community garden.

DDC will manage the renovations for the Woodside Library, which has proudly served the community since 1937. We will be utilizing an alternative delivery method known as CM-Build (Construction Management-Build), a faster and more efficient method of construction for projects at libraries and cultural institutions.

DDC is calling on qualified CM-Build firms to apply, helping us deliver world-class projects that will serve communities for generations to come.

SOQs are due June 12th.