Our Commitment
Tweed-New Haven Airport (HVN) plays a vital role in regional floodplain management and protecting nearby neighborhoods. By design, the airfield helps absorb and detain stormwater — and every day we actively manage the Morris Creek tide gates and drainage systems to help keep local water moving safely and reduce flood risk.
A Legacy of Water-Smart Design
From the airport’s earliest construction in the late 1920s, engineers understood the unique topography of the area and shaped the airfield to detain and release stormwater in a controlled way. Morris Creek was redirected along the airport’s west side to carry watershed flows, and a sub-surface drainage network and turf cover were built to stabilize soils and manage runoff.
This forward-looking design made the airfield a protective buffer for surrounding streets and homes — a role it continues to play today.
Managing Morris Creek Tide Gates
On behalf of the City of New Haven, HVN operates and manages the Morris Creek Tide Gate, which regulates tidal flows to reduce storm surge impacts and saltwater intrusion. Adjustments to the Tide Gates balance flood protection with healthy tidal exchange.
Flood Resiliency
Flood management at HVN is not just about infrastructure — it’s about preparedness. The airport is maintained as a protective buffer for the community, with systems in place to handle stormwater, tidal flows, and extreme weather events. Through daily operations and coordinated planning with our city partners, we ensure water moves safely on and off the airfield.
FAQs
When construction began in 1929, engineers recognized that much of the airport’s site sat below sea level. To manage this, they diverted Morris Creek around the airfield, installed over 12 miles of sub-surface drainage pipe, and graded the field to absorb and detain stormwater. Turf was planted to stabilize soils and support drainage. These choices made the airport itself a flood buffer for surrounding neighborhoods.
The Morris Creek Tide Gate regulates the flow of water between the creek and Long Island Sound. When closed, it prevents high tides and storm surges from pushing saltwater inland. When open, it allows rainwater and runoff from the watershed to drain out while also restoring healthy tidal exchange. This balance reduces flood risk for neighborhoods and keeps local marsh systems thriving.
Yes. The new terminal will be elevated on structural piers above the 100-year flood elevation. Key systems will be placed above flood levels, and the structure will allow water to pass underneath during severe weather events.
Please click on the link below for the RFQ on the On-Call Professional Engineering Services at the airport.