Today, June 6, Governor David A Paterson has announced that almost $25 million will be spent on Local Waterfront Revitalization across New York State.
“Across New York State, communities have recognized that their waterfronts can be the foundation for economic revitalization and improving quality of life,” said Governor Paterson. “These funds will allow communities to connect New York residents to the waterfront, particularly in distressed urban neighborhoods where waterfront access is in short supply. I look forward to more New York communities having the opportunity to celebrate the many environmental, cultural and economic benefits that waterfronts provide.”
Judith Enck, Deputy Secretary for the Environment said: “Clean water and vibrant waterfront communities are an exciting and essential goal of these waterfront projects. As we prepare the 2009 celebration of the 400th anniversary of Henry Hudson’s discovery of the Hudson River, Governor Paterson is pleased to work with local governments and community groups across the state which bring people and economic development to our treasured waterfronts.”
Secretary of State Lorraine Cortés-Vázquez said: “New York’s waterfronts are among its greatest assets. Ninety percent of the state’s population and a wide variety of economic activities are concentrated in the communities along its waterfronts – from the largest cities to the smallest hamlets. These grants will help rejuvenate New York’s waterfront communities, bringing new life, business and activity. Today’s grant announcements build on the Governor’s growing record of positive change for community revitalization and the environment.”
Grants were given to projects in every region of the State. On Long Island and the Westchester County shoreline of Long Island Sound there are 13 awards totaling $2,329,598. These awards advance community revitalization and environmental and recreational improvements.
New York City received 10 awards totaling $8,375,952 aimed at improving urban neighborhoods by connecting them to the City’s last great open space – its waterfront.
The Town of Oyster Bay will receive $201,673 for the Implementation of South Shore Bikeway Enhancement Study. The Town of Oyster Bay, in cooperation with the Town of Hempstead and Nassau County, will design and construct the proposed “southern corridor” concept to implement connections between the Bethpage and Jones Beach Bikeways in the South Shore Estuary Reserve.
The concept includes trail extension and widening, traffic signal improvements, and installation of signage at a variety of identified locations. The project will also include development of a brochure and route map.
For a complete list of grant recipients click here: http://www.state.ny.us/governor/press/pdf/press_0606081.pdf
