New York / New Jersey Harbor Navigation Project: Hydrodynamic and Water Quality Modeling

This paper summarizes the application of a three-dimensional (3D) hydrodynamics and water quality model for New York and New Jersey Harbor. The modeling task was performed as part of the Harbor Navigation Study (HNS) and Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Port of New York and New Jersey. The study is a comprehensive examination of the need for navigation improvements within the Port of New York and New Jersey. These improvements, which include deepening of existing channels, are designed to facilitate an economically efficient and environmentally sound port for current and future requirements. The HNS/EIS identifies a recommend plan for improvements to navigation channels in the Port of New York and New Jersey Harbor. The purpose of the 3D modeling effort summarized in this paper was to examine the impacts of channel improvements/deepening on hydrodynamics (tidal elevations, temperature and salinity) and water quality (dissolved oxygen and other parameters) in New York Harbor and its environs.