Mayor: New York City Working on Storm, Climate Prep

Mayor Michael Bloomberg says New York City will work on upgrading building codes and evacuation-zone maps, hardening power and transportation networks, and making sure hospitals are better prepared for storms.

Bloomberg discussed responding to both Superstorm Sandy and global warming in a speech Thursday at a Regional Plan Association meeting.

He says the city is still focused on recovering from the Oct. 29 storm. But officials have also started thinking about preparations.

Bloomberg says that as a start, the electric utility Consolidated Edison has agreed to spend $250 million. The goal is to get its electrical, steam and gas systems in shape to withstand a Category 2 hurricane.

Bloomberg says officials also will revisit construction laws. That especially applies to height restrictions that could discourage people from elevating their homes.