Environment DEC
From the May 2005 issue
Governor Announces $3.7 Million for Waterfront Projects, Preservation and Recreation on Long Island
Governor George E. Pataki announced 29 Environmental Protection Fund (EPF) grants totaling more than $3.7 million for waterfront revitalization, preservation efforts and increased recreational opportunities in Nassau and Suffolk counties, including projects to expand public access and amenities at waterfront areas.
"Long Island's waterfronts are vibrant areas for commerce, recreation, and the enjoyment of New York's magnificent natural resources," Governor Pataki said. "We have been working closely with municipalities on Long Island to rediscover and revitalize these waterfront areas, realizing the vast potential they offer. As we look forward to Earth Day, we can celebrate the unprecedented commitment we've made as stewards of New York's precious resources."
"We're proud that these new grants will help to promote greater public access to our waterways, restoration of historic treasures and enhancement of parklands and recreation areas in the region. They are investments in local projects that will improve the quality of life for residents on Long Island and generate long-term benefits for all New Yorkers."
DOS Coastal Resources Grant Administration
Native seashore plants and a drip
irrigation system have been installed
in the Hamlet of Oyster Bay
Twenty-three of the EPF grants announced are administered through the Department of State's (DOS) Division of Coastal Resources. The DOS matching grant program for local governments supports the preparation and implementation of Local Waterfront Revitalization Programs (LWRP) and inter-municipal water body management plans, development of coastal educational programs, creation of blueway trails and urban waterfront redevelopment.
Secretary of State Randy A. Daniels said, "Working together, New York State and Long Island communities have developed programs that will protect and enhance our waterfronts, and these grants will allow these communities to implement a variety of revitalization projects. Governor Pataki has provided unprecedented support and assistance for waterfront revitalization, and this latest round of grants is another important investment in our future."
OPRHP Grant Administration
The other six projects are EPF grants administered through the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) and include increasing public access to beaches, restoring gardens and museums and making improvements to local parks.
State Parks Commissioner Bernadette Castro said, "These announcements highlight Governor Pataki's steadfast dedication to preserving the Empire State's diverse natural and cultural heritage. These initiatives, supported through the EPF, will enable communities on Long Island to have greater recreational access to the waterfront, improved public parklands and local historic resources for the benefit of residents and visitors for generations ahead."
Governor's Legacy
Since 1995, Governor Pataki has invested more than $13 billion to protect and preserve New York's environment. This historic commitment includes a record $150 million in EPF funding in the 2005-2006 State Budget, a 20 percent increase over the last year and a six-fold increase in the last decade. Annual funding for environmental programs now totals more than $1.4 billion.
In the last decade, the Governor has committed more than $62 million in EPF support administered by State Parks toward 576 municipal open space, recreation and historic preservation grants to communities across New York State. In addition, more than $58 million has been awarded through the Department of State's LWRP for 621 waterfront projects.
