Volunteers needed to maintain Long Island’s hiking trails

By BILL BLEYER, Newsday, link to original post

Help wanted: People to maintain Long Island’s hiking trails. No pay, and opportunities for cuts and bruises and picking up insect bites, but plenty of fresh air and exercise.

The nonprofit Long Island Greenbelt Trail Conference isn’t really putting out ads like this for more volunteers to maintain the 150-mile Island trail network. But it does need more bodies.

Parks agencies in the past had been able to do a lot of trail maintenance. But “lately they are so understaffed and overworked” because of budget cuts that volunteers have been required to do almost all the work, said Nancy Manfredonia, former president of the conference and organizer of an event Sunday at the Trails Information Center in Manorville to acknowledge those who volunteer and try to find more people to pitch in.

“We’ve logged over a half-million hours of volunteer work” over the 34-year life of the organization, Manfredonia said. “We want people to be able to enjoy their hiking experience” so overgrown trails have to be kept wide enough that hikers don’t have to worry about ticks and Lyme disease.

While the organization has 1,200 members and draws many guests on its hikes, it has only about 50 trail maintainers. “We probably need 200 to do a thorough job,” Manfredonia said.

Being a trail volunteer “only entails a love of the outdoors and the ability to clip back the vegetation,” she said.

Nancy Duffrin of Shoreham, a trail maintainer for more than 15 years, leads a crew of about 25 volunteers who spend three hours on Mondays sprucing up the western portion of the 125-mile Paumanok Path, which runs from Rocky Point to Montauk Point.

The retired Stony Brook University administrator said the group uses a brush mower, a regular lawn mower, loppers, hedge trimmers and bow saws. “We’ve learned how to protect against ticks pretty well” by using a spray on their clothes, she said.

Janet Hann of Westhampton has been volunteering for four years and helps Duffrin manage the Monday group. The part-time employee at the Westhampton Free Library said she volunteers because “I believe in giving back. It’s more enjoyable hiking on the trail that’s been maintained.”

Bill Raftery of East Islip, an electronics manufacturing firm employee and volunteer since the mid-1990s, uses an ax to clear fallen trees on the Nassau-Suffolk Trail in Cold Spring Harbor State Park. “It’s good exercise and I get thanks from everybody who uses the trail,” he said. The only downside: “a couple of blisters.” Being a trail volunteer “only entails a love of the outdoors and the ability to clip back the vegetation,” she said.

Click here for the trail maintainer application & to see what sections are available.

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New Report: Seashores (including NY) are already hard hit by climate change

Climate change is already adversely affecting seven national seashores on the Atlantic Coast, from Cape Cod to Cape Canaveral, and those impacts will dramatically worsen if heat-trapping pollution is not reduced, according to a new report from the Rocky Mountain Climate Organization (RMCO) and the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC).

Titled “Atlantic National Seashores in Peril: The Threats of Climate Disruption,” the RMCO/NRDC report contains the first set of maps detailing the portions of Atlantic national seashores that are low lying enough to be at real risk of being submerged by rising sea levels.  Other climate change impacts outlined in the report include the loss of bridges and roads that provide access to the seashores, breakup of barrier islands into smaller segments, extensive beach erosion, and loss of wildlife.

The RMCO/NRDC report documents that Fire Island National Seashore (NS) in New York, Assateague Island NS in Maryland and Virginia, Cape Hatteras NS and Cape Lookout NS, both in North Carolina, and Canaveral NS in Florida, all have a majority of their lands less than one meter (3.3 feet) above sea level, and therefore are at serious risk of inundation by a higher sea level. Also at risk to higher seas are particular sections of the remaining two national seashores covered in the report: Cape Cod NS in Massachusetts and Cumberland Island NS in Georgia.

Scientists say there is a good chance that a hotter climate could push seas at least one meter higher in this century.     The report notes that the Cape Cod, Fire Island, Assateague Island, and Cape Hatteras national seashores already are experiencing rates of sea-level rise well above the global average.

Another concern is rising temperatures that could discourage summertime visitors.  New climate projections included in the report show that, with medium to high emission level, the late-century summer temperatures at Fire Island NS could average 6.5 degrees higher, as hot as those experienced today in Atlantic Beach, NC, and temperatures at Cumberland Island NS could rise 6.3 degrees, matching the current summer climate in desert-bound White Sands National Monument in New Mexico.

The seven national seashores draw a total of about 11 million visitors a year, contributing to the economy of seven states by generating more than half a billion dollars in spending and supporting nearly 8,000 jobs.  An additional, immeasurable economic value of the seashores is that they contain islands, dunes, and other shoreline features that are the first line of defense protecting human populations and developments from the often devastating effects of winds and surging flood waters from hurricanes, nor’easters, and other coastal storms.

Report author Stephen Saunders, president, Rocky Mountain Climate Organization, said:  “Major parts of each of these seashores, including most lands in five of them, could be lost forever under a higher ocean if we do not stop disrupting the climate. Climate change is the greatest threat ever to our national park systems. These seashores certainly are among the most vulnerable areas.  Human alteration of the climate threatens to undercut our national promise that these special places will be preserved unimpaired for the enjoyment of my children and future generations.”

Theo Spencer, senior advocate, Climate and Clean Air Program, Natural Resources Defense Council, said:  “Massive and preventable damage to national seashores is too high a price to pay for failing to act on climate change.  This report makes clear that if we don’t cut the amount of heat-trapping pollution we spew into the air, these special places that Americans love will never be the same. We’ve made some progress, including national standards to make cars cleaner and more efficient, and new health protections from power plant pollution. But more must be done. For starters, we need to allow the Environmental Protection Agency to continue doing its job controlling heat-trapping pollution that harms our health and the places we love.”

Dr. S. Jeffress Williams, scientist emeritus, U.S. Geological Survey, said:  “Science is compelling that climate is changing, becoming warmer and much more variable. Many impacts are already affecting Atlantic National Seashores and will do so for decades into the future. This new assessment is important for planning for these changes by documenting effects such as sea level rise and warming on both the natural resources in the parks and also the public who visit the parks and value what the parks offer.”

The following is among the key findings about the NY national seashore:

* Fire Island NS, located only 40 miles from Manhattan, has most of its land one meter or less above sea level, primarily on the inland side of the island. Based on projected wave height, susceptibility to erosion, and tidal range, Fire Island has a high vulnerability to shoreline change from sea-level rise.

See the full report for other impacts.

The report also outlines the steps needed to avoid further climate disruption to national seashore areas, including:

* Establishing comprehensive mandatory limits on carbon pollution to reduce emissions by at least 20 percent below current levels by 2020 and 80 percent by 2050;
* Protecting the current Clean Air Act authority of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), allowing EPA to do its job of protecting American’s health by cutting pollution;
* Overcoming barriers to investment in energy efficiency to lower emission-reduction costs, starting now;
* Accelerating the development and deployment of emerging technologies to lower long-term emission reduction costs; and
* Actions by the National Park Service to identify and protect threatened seashore resources and to reduce its own emissions of heat-trapping pollution, combined with visitor education exhibits and programs on climate change threats and examples of emission reduction efforts. With 279 million visits in 2011, the national park system can play a unique role in presenting climate change information to people.

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Long Island Gets NY’s First Bike Share Program

Decobike Bike Share Program in Long Beach NY

by: Joseph Kellard, Long Beach Patch

Filled with a wealth of activities and attractions, New York’s , commute just got easier. Promoting a healthy living and environmentally friendly DecoBike has put its bike’s in the big apple. DecoBike, is currently the first bike-share program in the state of New York, DecoBike’s partnership with the City of Long Beach. New Yorkers can now get from point A to Point B by simply renting a DECOBIKE for periods at a time.

Launching this week DecoBike brings you a true Long Beach lifestyle option – a bike.  Allowing tourist to live like a local, by cruising from the train to the boardwalk, and then to beach, on a comfortable beach cruisers. DecoBike allows you to take advantage of the 2.2 miles of boardwalk or move beyond the boardwalk into the various neighborhoods of Long Beach as you ride in style through the City by the Sea.  With kiosks conveniently located throughout the City, it’s an easy, economical and exciting way to enhance your summer experience.  Ride one way or round trip to a myriad of destinations and enjoy life like a Long Beach local.  With a variety of pricing options to meet any rider’s needs, the possibilities are endless for a stupendous riding experience in Long Beach.

As the first bike-share program in the state of New York, DecoBike’s partnership with the City of Long Beach offers riders safe travel on the beautiful Long Beach Boardwalk as well as on an array of designated bike lanes on local roads.  Always keeping environmental and physical safety in mind, DecoBike used the July 4th launch of their bike-sharing program to offer riders free safety helmets.  “DecoBike has been inspired by a genuine love for our planet to create opportunities for individuals to pursue alternative means of transportation that enhance personal health and reduce the carbon footprint,” said Ricardo Pierdant, President of DECOBIKE.  “We are excited about our efforts in Long Beach, NY as we know we are providing a unique opportunity for those who visit the city to live like the locals, even for a day.”

Staffed by a knowledgeable and experienced team of Long Beach locals, DecoBike offers riders a true Long Beach experience.  “As a life-long Long Beach resident, I feel fortunate to live and work in such a beautiful part of the world.  Some of my fondest memories are of my riding my bike through town with my mom or my friends.  I am excited to be working with a company that will offer this experience to the hundreds of thousands of individuals who visit our city each year,” said Richard Chimienti, Manager of DecoBike, Long Beach.   In a challenging economic time, DecoBike has used its local-mindedness to put Long Beach locals to work.  “It’s important for DecoBike to become a contributing member of the Long Beach community.  This City has given so much to us and we are fortunate to be able to give back in a unique way now.  Having the opportunity to hire so many young people from Long Beach as part of the DecoBike team allows us to invest not only in our residents, but also demonstrate the benefits of a healthy lifestyle to our guests as well,” said Pierdant.

The forecast is heating up.  Why not head to the beach and enjoy the Long Beach experience like a local – on a DecoBike.

ABOUT DECOBIKE,LLC
DECOBIKE, LLC debuted their revolutionary public bicycle sharing and rental program in the world-famous South Beach Art Deco district as the country’s first green city-wide public transit program, starting in March 2011. In 2012, they have expanded to Surfside, FL and New York giving locals and tourist the chance to live and healthier lifestyle. For more information, please visit our website at www.DecoBikelbny.com.

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Kings Park Trail Extension in Smithtown NY Delayed

Kings Park Trail Extension in Smithtown NY Delayed

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New Bike Path To Jones Beach in Nassau County NY

by Joe Scotchie, Massapequan Observer, link to original post

Recently, state officials and local politicians gathered at various sites in Nassau County to announce the coming construction of multi-use paths, mostly those for bicycle enthusiasts.

Among those is the Ocean Parkway-Jones Beach Access path, which is designed to assist bicyclists traveling to the latter destination.

New York State Transportation Department (NYSDOT) officials said the path would provide a 0.7-mile connection between the end of the 7.5-mile Wantagh State Parkway multi-use path and the Jones Beach State Park East Bath House.  It will be constructed through the Jones Beach Theater parking area to the pedestrian underpass, where new storage will be provided for 100 bicycles.

NYSDOT officials added that the path is scheduled for construction work this fall with a spring 2013 completion date all at a cost of $1 million.

Those same officials, naturally, all hailed the coming construction. “Many residents from all across Long Island ride, run, and walk on the Wantagh Parkway Bike Path every single day,” said State Senator Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr. (R – Merrick). “This project will give them greater access to Jones Beach, which is the crown jewel of the state parks system, and provide a critical link to the planned Ocean Parkway Bike Path.”

“I am pleased that the New York State Department of Transportation and the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation have come together to extend the bike path at Jones Beach which will have numerous benefits to our residents by increasing mobility and accessibility through Jones Beach Park by bicycle and increasing the health benefits of bicycling,” added Assemblyman Dave McDonough (R – Bellmore).

Other projected multi-use paths include the Bethpage State Park extension, which begins through Trail View State to Woodbury Road and the Setauket to Port Jefferson multi-use path. The Setauket project is scheduled to begin construction in August with a May 2014 completion date. No date has been set for the construction or completion of the Bethpage State Park extension.

More than 18 miles of new paths, state officials said, are being added to the state’s 172 miles of on- and off-road bike routes across Long Island.

Officials with the NYSDOT and the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation also traded compliments. “The New York State Department of Transportation is about more than roads and bridges,” NYSDOT Commissioner Joan McDonald said. “Governor Andrew Cuomo’s leadership on smart growth and sustainable development reinforces the critical role bicycle paths play in our multi-modal transportation system.  We’re pleased to partner with the State Department of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation in expanding opportunities for cyclists and pedestrians, and encouraging them to enjoy all the natural beauty Long Island has to offer this summer.”

“Transportation and recreation often go hand in hand,” added NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Commissioner Rose Harvey. “With 18 miles of new multi-use paths, cyclists, runners, hikers and others will have even more opportunities to get out and explore Long Island’s beautiful landscape. I am grateful to Commissioner McDonald and the state Department of Transportation for their partnership in creating these tremendous new resources for safe and healthy recreation.”

Copies of the Long Island bikeways map and additional information regarding Long Island bike facilities may be obtained at http://www.511ny.org/rideshare/ rideshare.aspx?FolderID=149.

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Long Island Kayak Put-In Map

Kevin Stiegelmaier compiled a Google Map that shows all of the Long Island paddling put-ins featured in his book, Paddling Long Island and NYC.  It is by no means done, but it does show many spots across the island.  Just click on the picture of the map on the right side of the screen and it’ll take you there.  

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NY DOT and Parks Commissioners Spotlight Long Island Bicycle Path Projects

New Paths at Jones Beach, Bethpage Park and Setauket to Add More Than 18 Miles to State’s 172 Miles of Bike Routes on Long Island

New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Joan McDonald and New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Commissioner Rose Harvey today visited three new bicycle/multi-use path construction project sites on Long Island, highlighting the more than 18 miles of new path being added to the State’s 172 miles of on- and off-road bike routes across the island. Approximately 24 percent of the state’s highways on Long Island, including most non-interstate and non-parkway roads, accommodate cyclists.

“The New York State Department of Transportation is about more than roads and bridges,” Commissioner Joan McDonald said. “Governor Andrew Cuomo’s leadership on smart growth and sustainable development reinforces the critical role bicycle paths play in our multi-modal transportation system. We’re pleased to partner with the State Department of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation in expanding opportunities for cyclists and pedestrians, and encouraging them to enjoy all the natural beauty Long Island has to offer this summer.”

NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Commissioner Rose Harvey said, “Transportation and recreation often go hand in hand. With 18 miles of new multi-use paths, cyclists, runners, hikers and others will have even more opportunities to get out and explore Long Island’s beautiful landscape. I am grateful to Commissioner McDonald and the state Department of Transportation for their partnership in creating these tremendous new resources for safe and healthy recreation.”

Commissioners McDonald and Harvey were joined by bike enthusiasts and elected officials at the planned Ocean Parkway Jones Beach Bike Access Project site in Hempstead, Nassau County, and at two locations where multi-use paths are under construction: the Bethpage State Park Bikeway Expansion Project site in Oyster Bay, Nassau County, and the Setauket-Port Jefferson Multi-Use Path Project site in Brookhaven, Suffolk County. Combined, the three represent an estimated $11.5 million investment this year in new paths for pedestrians and non-motorized vehicles on Long Island.

Ocean Parkway-Jones Beach Access Multi-Use Path, Hempstead

The commissioners started their day in Hempstead at the proposed Ocean Parkway-Jones Beach Access Multi-Use Path, which will provide a vital 0.7 mile connection between the end of the 7.5-mile Wantagh State Parkway Multi-Use Path and the Jones Beach State Park East Bath House. It will be constructed through the Jones Beach Theater parking area to the pedestrian underpass, where new storage will be provided for 100 bicycles. The project contract is scheduled to be let this fall, with construction completed next spring at a cost of approximately $1 million.

State Senator Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr. said, “Many residents from all across Long Island ride, run, and walk on the Wantagh Parkway Bike Path every single day. This project will give them greater access to Jones Beach, which is the crown jewel of the state parks system, and provide a critical link to the planned Ocean Parkway Bike Path. I’m pleased New York State is making this investment to improve the bike path for all who use it.”

Assemblyman Dave McDonough said, “I am pleased that the New York State Department of Transportation and the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation have come together to extend the bikepath at beautiful Jones Beach which will have numerous benefits to our residents by increasing mobility and accessibility through Jones Beach Park by bicycle and increasing the health benefits of bicycling.”

Bethpage State Park Multi-Use Path Extension, Oyster Bay

The commissioners also viewed construction under way on the Bethpage State Park Multi-Use Path Extension in Oyster Bay. The project is extending the path six miles from a picnic area, through Trail View State Park to Woodbury Road. The existing path dates to the 1970s. An additional 2.4-mile on-road bike-access way is also being provided.

This project includes enhancements to a remnant of the original Long Island Motor Parkway and the installation of information kiosks, destination signs and new park-and-bike lots. The $6.5 million bikeway extension is being constructed by the United Fence and Guard Rail Corporation of Ronkonkoma under contract with NYSDOT.

State Senator Kemp Hannon said, “Trails and greenways make our communities more livable, preserve and restore open space, and provide opportunities for physical activity to improve fitness and mental health.”

State Senator Carl L. Marcellino said, “Extending the trail way to the Syosset Railroad Station is an environmentally sound way to move people around Long Island. When someone decides to ride a bike to work, they open up room on our congested road system. And, of course, cyclists produce no pollution, add little wear to our roads and are also improving their personal health as they ride. This is a win-win for everybody.”

Assemblyman Charles Lavine said, “The Bethpage Parkway Bike Path Extension will create a safer path for both experienced and recreational cyclists. This new extension will encourage more Long Islanders to use their bikes and will enhance the vitality of the community as a whole.”

Assemblyman Joseph Saladino said, “New York State residents have always embraced the environment and outdoor recreation. I hope that everyone will take an opportunity to use this trail. I know they will enjoy it.”

Nassau County Legislator Judy Jacobs said, “This is a very important step toward alleviating our dependence on cars by giving people a safer alternative way to get to their destination.”

Mickey Miller, president of the Old Bethpage Citizens Advisory Group, said, “On behalf of the Old Bethpage Citizens Advisory Group, my thanks to the DOT for giving Long Island a world class bike path.”

Setauket to Port Jefferson Multi-Use Path, Brookhaven

Finally, the commissioners went to Brookhaven to tour the site of the Phase II extension of the popular Setauket to Port Jefferson Multi-Use Path. Construction there is scheduled to begin in August and be completed in May 2014.

This $3.4 million, two-mile extension will provide a safe, accessible, non-motorized path between residential, recreational and retail areas between NY Route 25A in Setauket and NY Route 112 in Port Jefferson Station. Porous concrete is being used to facilitate drainage in a new parking field, and information kiosks and new path signs are being installed. Boulders from the property are being reused and placed to prevent ATVs from accessing the path. Two new traffic signals are being provided at Gnarled Hollow Road to enhance safety there for bicyclists, pedestrians and motorists.

Virtually every state road on Long Island features some accommodation for bicycling, except for high-volume highways and parkways where bicycling is prohibited. One particularly picturesque example is the Montauk Highway/NY Route 27, a 37-mile-long, signed, on-road bike route between Southampton and the Montauk Lighthouse. Another is NY Route 114, a three-mile signed bike route between Shelter Island and Sag Harbor, which includes a tranquil ferry ride.

Congressman Tim Bishop said, “With the completion of the Setauket-Port Jefferson Station Greenway, federal funds I secured will continue to enhance our North Shore communities for decades to come. I appreciate the work of everybody who has supported this outstanding resource for bikers, hikers, and nature lovers.”

Senator Ken LaValle said, “The Setauket to Port Jefferson Multi-Use Path will provide a recreational trail that offers a safe venue for bike riders and hikers to enjoy the great outdoors and the beauty of Long Island’s north shore.”

Charlie McAteer, chair of the Friends of the Greenway said, “The Friends of the Greenway acknowledge the great cooperation with the federal, state, county and town governments in the creation of the Setauket to Port Jefferson Station Multi-Use trail. This path is already considered a jewel, tying our two communities together while providing alternative transportation to gas-powered vehicles. Our neighborhood is a better place for the foresight of this Greenway project, the governmental officials who funded it, and NYSDOT Commissioner Joan McDonald and her hard working staff.”

Copies of the Long Island Bikeways map and additional information regarding Long Island bike facilities may be obtained at http://www.511ny.org/rideshare/rideshare.aspx?FolderID=149. General information about cycling in New York State is available at www.dot.ny.gov/display/programs/bicycle.

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NEW “Paddling Long Island and NYC” guidebook

Paddle Long Island and NYC

“Paddling Long Island” is the only book on the market to depict routes and destinations across the whole of Long Island and the New York City area. And it showcases 50 of the very best. It is a diverse selection, too. After all, according to skill level, weather, personal mood, and other factors, a paddler may want open, fast water one day, but a quiet, protected experience at another time, and something in-between later on. It’s all here, from New York City to the far eastern tip of Long Island’s Montauk Point.

Author Kevin Stiegelmaier describes the best times to paddle the 50 harbor, inlet, bay, and river routes; alerts readers to each paddle’s difficulty level and estimated length; and suggests side trips, optional trip extensions, and alternate routes to paddle depending on weather conditions. The easy-to-follow maps he included, complete with GPS coordinates and driving directions, add to this book’s high value.

Canoeing and Kayaking New York

You’ll remember Kevin as the author of the helpful guide “Canoeing & Kayaking New York.”

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The 10 Best Hiking Trails in Long Island

The 10 Best Hiking Trails in Long Island

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For bikers, turning the old LIRR Rockaway line into a greenway is the QueensWay to go

By Andrea Crawford / NEW YORK DAILY NEWS, link to original post

Friends of the QueensWay formed as a coming together of all the communities along the abandoned right of way that was once the Rockaway Branch spur of the Long Island Rail Road. Since its formation, multitudes of people around the world have expressed support.

As of today, an online petition calling on the City of New York to convert the Rockaway line to a park has 1,426 signatures which include those of more than 300 people from the Forest Hills/Rego Park area, more than 700 people from Queens and those of people from nearly 50 countries around the world.

Most importantly, the potential of this project has ignited an outpouring of support from Queens residents who are confronted with the paucity of available safe, scenic bicycle routes in the borough. The ability to bicycle around Queens and perhaps get to a safe park, such as Forest Park, a jewel in city park system, is extremely limited, and in fact, can pose danger to anyone but the most experienced cyclist.

The ability for residents from South Ozone Park and Rego Park to safely ride through their own neighborhoods and meet up in Forest Park is most certainly an ambitious project, but one that is feasible by converting this long-abandoned right-of-away into a greenway.

The Rockaway line was decommissioned 50 years ago and is currently owned by the city. Since decommissioning, communities have developed around the old tracks but the land itself has been left desolate and covered in debris. Much of the old tracks are gone but the beautiful trestles remain, with the right-of-way weaving through Forest Park, Little League fields, industrial neighborhoods as well as through residential areas. This 3.5 miles of unused, city-owned land inspired the 1,426 people (at least) who have signed on to support the creation of new open space.

The opportunities of creating the QueensWay are endless – families would be able to walk, run, stroll or bike for miles, uninterrupted, through the entire Borough of Queens. As evidence shows in similar rails-to-trails conversions across the country, business, economic and cultural activity would be catalyzed, property values would increase while public safety and health would improve. Communities throughout the borough would be connected as the line would link five subway lines, more than a dozen schools, at least nine shopping districts and two other greenways that currently exist in Forest Park.

Finally, the conversion to a park would reclaim derelict land that acts as an attraction for dumping, illicit activity and graffiti from Forest Hills to South Ozone Park. Once the city’s Bike Share program, which begins this year, reaches Queens, the potential for the QueensWay will be fully unlocked.

While we commend our friends in the Rockaways for their continued advocacy for improved transit to their community, it is hard to believe that reactivation of the Rockaway Line is the right solution. Studies have shown that it would be infeasible – costs would be in the billions as a result of its current state of disrepair from having been abandoned for more than 50 years and the fact that the line currently runs next to schools, ballfields and hundreds if not thousands of homes, circumstances that could present numerous dangerous situations.

Further, there are alternatives that can be explored to improve transportation, such as implementation of Select Bus Service on Cross Bay and Woodhaven Blvds., increased A-train express service; licensing of a Fast Ferry to Lower Manhattan and Midtown and re-opening of the Woodhaven station underneath Atlantic Ave. on the LIRR’s Atlantic Branch.

Friends of the QueensWay feels strongly that to ensure a successful park, a significant amount of planning must be conducted that includes the participation of a variety of stakeholders. That is why we are thrilled to have the support and commitment of the Trust for Public Land – the country’s most successful creator of parks. As a first step, we will conduct a thorough feasibility study to determine, among many other things, the current condition of the line, how the park will be maintained and operated and what will be the cost to construct the ultimate vision. Once all of this information is parsed, we will be able to accurately make a presentation to the public and government why investments in the QueensWay constitutes a sound investment that will benefit the residents of Queens for generations to come.

Andrea Crawford is Chairwoman of Community Board 9 and a member of the Steering Committee of Friends of the Queensway

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