Funding Needed for Wetlands Restoration
Albany, NY – May 2, 2014 – (RealEstateRama) — Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today requested federal funding from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Emergency Watershed Protection Program for the purchase of 77 properties—75 homes and two vacant parcels—in the communities of Midland Beach and New Dorp Beach on the East Shore of Staten Island.
“New York State has made great progress in helping local communities recover from the effects of Superstorm Sandy, but there is still more work to be done,” Governor Cuomo said. “I am urging Washington to help us protect Staten Island communities by delivering the funding we need for these buyouts. It is imperative that the federal government continues to support our efforts to reimagine this State for the new reality of extreme weather.”
The New York State Department of State has determined these properties were all substantially damaged or destroyed during Superstorm Sandy, were inundated by flooding from Sandy, or sit within a 100-year flood plain. Removal of structures damaged by Sandy and wetland restoration properties will positively benefit the entire floodplain and surrounding residential communities. These parcels will add to adjacent wetlands and storm management systems, such as the NYC Department of Environmental Protection Bluebelt—known as the New Creek Bluebelt—and the NYC Department of Parks and Recreation, including Great Kills Park.
Storm Recovery Director Jamie Rubin said, “NY Rising is committed to ensuring that federal funds are sought and invested in projects that will lead to a stronger, more resilient New York. We strongly believe the USDA Emergency Watershed Protection Program is the right resource to enhance wetlands restorations in Midland Beach and New Dorp Beach, and the model we have developed for NY Rising will ensure the successful return of these properties to Mother Nature.”
Staten Island Borough President James S. Oddo said, “I would like to thank the Cuomo administration for their recognition of how important it is to forever protect areas adjacent to our Bluebelt. Bluebelts work, and are necessary to help alleviate some of the flooding conditions that occur during even small rainstorms in flood prone areas. These properties, once acquired, will help provide a greater measure of protection for the Midland Beach and New Dorp Beach communities, which is so important for residents who have chosen to stay in those neighborhoods. I am hopeful that this funding comes soon so that our Bluebelts can be expanded as quickly as possible.”
Contact Information:
Governor’s Press Office
NYC Press Office: 212.681.4640
Albany Press Office: 518.474.8418
