Bloomberg: NYC working on storm, climate prep

Mayor Michael Bloomberg says New York City will work on upgrading building codes and evacuation-zone maps, hardening power and transportation networks, and making sure hospitals are better prepared for storms. WAMC’s Dave Lucas reports.

Bloomberg discussed responding to both Superstorm Sandy and global warming in a speech Thursday at a Regional Plan Association meeting. He says the city is still focused on recovering from the Oct. 29 storm. But officials have also started thinking about preparations.

Bloomberg says that as a start, the electric utility Consolidated Edison has agreed to spend $250 million. The goal is to get its electrical, steam and gas systems in shape to withstand a Category 2 hurricane.

Bloomberg says officials also will revisit construction laws. That especially applies to height restrictions that could discourage people from elevating their homes.

Copyright 2012 The Associated Press.