Flood Proofing Cities

Venice: Solution
This mobile flood barrier embodies the most substantial engineering aspect of the proposed solution to flooding in Venice. It is part of a multibillion-dollar series of 78 metal gates that will rise off the seafloor at the three entrances to Venice's lagoon whenever acqua alta is forecast, blocking the Adriatic until high tides subside. This project has been controversial, with many experts concerned for the environmental health of the lagoon and advising against what may be only a relatively short-term solution. But the gates are slated to be completed in 2011.