A New York state of infrastructure: Stuck in traffic during last Saturday’s blackout, Erika Simpson ponders vulnerable infrastructure

Authors

Erika Simpson, University of Western Ontario (Western University)Follow

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

7-19-2019

Journal

London Free Press

Abstract

The article recounts a chaotic evening in New York City during a widespread blackout affecting lower west Manhattan. As thousands were stranded in darkness due to an electrical failure, initially thought to be caused by a fire in a manhole, concerns about infrastructure resilience and disaster preparedness were heightened. The incident underscored the vulnerability of urban electrical grids, prompting reflections on the city's readiness for emergencies like terrorist attacks and climate-related disruptions. Despite disruptions to Broadway and other events, the city showed resilience, highlighting the importance of robust infrastructure and emergency planning in urban centers.

Notes

First published in London Free Press.