Dr. Peter Wasserman and his father have been dentists at 6011 Riverdale Avenue, Bronx, NY for 45 years. Wasserman Sr. purchased the building decades ago. They serve clients in the Bronx and Yonkers.
Due to their popularity, their practice has grown exponentially. The building itself is well maintained and periodically updated. Yet recently, things began to change. Wasserman dreads when it rains.
Peter Wasserman states that new construction on neighboring buildings has lead to flooding and a shift in the direction of water flow from the area above and behind his building. His building has been flooded twice in two years. Water as high as six inches destroyed flooring, computers, and dental equipment. Laminated flooring installed six months ago will now have to be stripped and replaced.
An investigation by DEP reports that the storm drains servicing 6011 Riverdale Avenue are intact. Wasserman maintains that it is the rear of the building that is vulnerable. Calls to the NYC Dept. of Buildings have been frustrating and produced few results.
On Tuesday, September 12, 2023, a weary Peter Wasserman continued to receive patients. Due to the rain and the flooding, he had remained at the office from Monday night until 1:00am Tuesday morning. The office was open replete with pumps, fans, water and a dedicated staff.
Sometimes, the effect of climate change is local.
