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Mexico City’s Metro System Is Sinking Fast. Yours Could Be Next

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Solano‐Rojas and his colleagues found subsidence in the area of an overpass near the Olivos station, which collapsed in 2021 while a Metro train was traveling over it. “We did part of this analysis before 2021, and we detected that that area was having differential displacements,” says Solano‐Rojas. “We were like, ‘Oh, yeah, it looks like something could be happening here in the future.’ We think that it’s not a coincidence that we found this.” Solano‐Rojas was careful to say that the potential contribution of subsidence to the disaster would require further evaluation, and official investigations have cited construction errors and do not mention subsidence.

For this study, the researchers looked at the Metro infrastructure aboveground, not the subway segments—basically, the parts of the system they could verify visually. (The photo below shows the differential subsidence of columns supporting an overpass.) But by providing the system’s operators with information on how quickly its infrastructure might be subsiding, their work can hopefully inform interventions. Engineers can add material underneath railways, for instance, to restore lost elevation. Bolstering subways, though, could be much more challenging. “We don’t have a concrete solution for that,” says Shirzaei. “In most cases, when that happens, it just results in shutting down the project and trying to open a new lane.”

Photo showing a train going across a bridge

Courtesy of Darío Solano‐Rojas

This isn’t just Mexico City’s problem. Earlier this year, Shirzaei and his colleagues found that the East Coast’s infrastructure is in serious trouble due to slower—yet steady—subsidence. They calculated that 29,000 square miles of the Atlantic Coast are exposed to sinking of up to 0.08 inches a year, affecting up to 14 million people and 6 million properties. Some 1,400 square miles are sinking up to 0.20 inches a year.

Differential subsidence is not only threatening railways, the researchers found, but all kinds of other critical infrastructure, like levees and airports. A metropolis like New York City has the added problem of sheer weight pushing down on the ground, which alone leads to subsidence. The Bay Area, too, is sinking. On either coast, subsidence is greatly exacerbating the problem of sea level rise: The land is going down just as the water is coming up.

Wherever in the world it’s happening, people have to stop overextracting groundwater to slow subsidence. Newfangled systems are already relieving pressure on aquifers. It’s getting cheaper and cheaper to recycle toilet water into drinking water, for instance. And more cities are deploying “sponge” infrastructure—lots of green spaces that allow rainwater to soak into the underlying aquifer, essentially reinflating the land to fend off subsidence. Such efforts are increasingly urgent as climate change exacerbates droughts in many parts of the world, including Mexico City, putting ever more pressure on groundwater supplies.

With increasing satellite data, cities can get a better handle on the subsidence they can’t immediately avoid. “I really feel like governments have a chance to use these kinds of studies to have a more structured plan of action,” says Solano‐Rojas.

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A Group Guide to New York City’s Beaches

Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and allow your soul to lead the way to an unforgettable experience. Grab your swimsuit and embark on a journey to explore the enchanting beaches of New York City.

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery, whether you prefer lounging in the sun or engaging in exhilarating activities like surfing. It’s time to release any lingering negativity and ride the wave of relaxation!

New York City offers a plethora of stunning beach options, providing the perfect opportunity to rejuvenate and temporarily leave all your worries behind. Whether you head to the iconic Coney Island or venture off the beaten path to discover hidden gems like Jacob Riis Park, each destination promises a unique escape from the ordinary.

Whether you’re in the midst of arranging a wedding celebration, corporate expedition, or a family getaway, selecting a bus charter in New York for your group opens up a host of advantages.

While public transportation can certainly get you to your chosen beach, dealing with crowded trains and buses can be less than ideal, particularly when you have a sizable group, including children, in tow. Opt for the convenience of a meticulously maintained bus shuttle for a seamless journey that ensures the utmost comfort.

Armed with extensive expertise in orchestrating various types of trips, Comfort Express Bus Rental in New York is primed to provide you with the ultimate transportation solution tailored to meet all your requirements.

Be confident that your travel experience will be in expert hands, guaranteeing you the finest journey possible.

CONEY ISLAND NY

CONEY ISLAND

Indulge in the charm of one of the most iconic summer retreats – Coney Island, a destination that never fails to captivate with its enchanting ambiance. Offering a plethora of activities throughout the entire summer and even in the off-season, Coney Island is an unparalleled haven for self-pampering.

Take a leisurely stroll along the legendary boardwalk, bask in the sun, and enjoy a refreshing swim on the pristine sandy beach. For those seeking more action, engage in beach volleyball, basketball, or handball.

For a dose of cutting-edge entertainment, consider a visit to the captivating Luna Park, boasting a diverse collection of exhilarating rollercoasters. Alternatively, explore the wonders of the New York Aquarium, showcasing a mesmerizing array of marine creatures. No trip to Coney Island would be complete without savoring the iconic Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs.

Location: 1000 Surf Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11224

BRIGHTON BEACH NY

BRIGHTON BEACH

Situated in close proximity to Coney Island, Brighton Beach beckons with its tranquil ambiance set against a backdrop of picturesque natural beauty. For those yearning to escape the relentless hustle and bustle of New York City, Brighton Beach stands out as an idyllic retreat.

Spend your weekend leisurely sunbathing on the sandy shores, indulging in people-watching, or immersing yourself in a myriad of relaxing pursuits that eschew the need for high-energy activities. Additionally, Brighton Beach enjoys a quieter status compared to Coney Island, ensuring ample space for you to unwind and soak in the soothing warmth of the sun.

Should hunger strike, an array of delectable options awaits, as Brighton Beach is renowned for its authentic Eastern European and Russian eateries. Here, you can relish extraordinary delicacies such as pierogies, Georgian flatbread featuring cheese, and tantalizing rice pilaf.

Location: 313 Brightwater Ct, Brooklyn, NY 11235

JACOB RIIS PARK NY

JACOB RIIS PARK

Boasting a pristine sandy beach, a charming pitch-and-putt golf course, an iconic Art Deco boathouse, and enchanting boardwalks, Jacob Riis Park stands as the epitome of a flawless vacation retreat. Among the most sought-after beaches in New York City, it shares its shoreline with a sprawling, mile-long expanse of swim-friendly ocean. Originally conceived by the renowned NYC urban planner Robert Moses, Jacob Riis Park has transformed into a beloved tourist haven, celebrated for its untouched beach and rich history.

The park is equipped with a deluxe golf center, basketball and volleyball courts, and a plethora of playgrounds, ensuring that a day at the beach is as entertaining as it is relaxing. Explore the Riis Park Beach Bazaar, and savor the offerings of local restaurants like The Meatup Grill and Rockaway Clam Bar.

For those in search of the perfect spot to unwind, Jacob Riis Park emerges as the ideal destination, providing an abundance of options to ensure a truly rejuvenating experience.

ORCHARD BEACH NY

ORCHARD BEACH

For a tranquil holiday retreat, fulfilling the dreams of relaxation, Orchard Beach emerges as an excellent choice, often referred to as the “Riviera of New York City.” Nestled in Pelham Bay Park, this stunning man-made beach showcases the picturesque Central Pavilion and a hexagonal boardwalk steeped in 1930s charm. Orchard Beach not only boasts pristine sand but also draws numerous tourists each year with its impeccably maintained volleyball and basketball courts, vibrant bars, and inviting playgrounds.

While Orchard Beach provides an ideal setting for embracing the brilliance of summer, it’s worth noting that accessibility by train is not an option. Therefore, when planning a trip for a sizable group, consider the convenience of renting a comfortable and air-conditioned bus charter, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable journey to Orchard Beach!

Address: Park Dr, The Bronx, NY 10464

STATEN ISLAND’S BEACHES

Discover the distinctive charm of Staten Island through its two enchanting public beaches, seamlessly connected and known as South Beach and Midland Beach. These coastal havens exude a peaceful atmosphere and boast calm waters, transforming them into beloved family destinations. The Franklin D. Roosevelt Beach Boardwalk enhances the appeal, providing an exceptional setting for delightful walks and invigorating jogs. South Beach beckons with opportunities for kayaking, offering breathtaking views of the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge and a captivating encounter with The Fountain of Dolphins.

For those seeking a more active holiday experience, Midland Beach is the perfect destination. Here, you’ll find shuffleboard and tennis courts alongside inviting playgrounds. Don’t miss the chance to bring your kids and revel in the charm of the captivating sea turtle fountain, ensuring smiles all around by the end of your visit.

Location: Franklin D Roosevelt Boardwalk, Staten Island, NY 10305