Senator Gipson Announces Legislation to Make Wappinger Creek an Inland Waterway and Presents Infrastructure Grant for Sidewalks

For Immediate Release: December 2, 2013
Media Contact: Jonathan Heppner | 845.463.0840 | heppner@nysenate.gov     

SENATOR GIPSON ANNOUNCES LEGISLATION TO MAKE WAPPINGER CREEK AN INLAND WATERWAY AND PRESENTS INFRASTRUCTURE GRANT FOR SIDEWALKS

WAPPINGER FALLS, NY – New York State Senator Terry Gipson (D-Dutchess, Putnam) announced legislation (S5408) that would designate the Wappinger Creek as an inland waterway allowing municipalities along the creek to receive federal dollars for infrastructure improvements. Senator Gipson also delivered a $100,000 grant that he secured through the New York State Economic Development Assistance Program for the construction of sidewalks that connect Wappingers Falls' residents to local businesses on the corner of E. Main and Route 9.

“Investing in our local infrastructure is important to growing our economy and the future prosperity of our communities,” said Senator Gipson. “Designating the Wappinger Creek as an inland waterway is an important step towards making towns and villages impacted by the creek eligible for much needed funding to make infrastructure improvements.”

Assemblymember Didi Barrett (D-Mid-Hudson), sponsor of this legislation in the Assembly, stated: "I am proud to sponsor this legislation in the Assembly," said Assemblymember Barrett. "This designation will pave the way for important revitalization funds to flow to communities all along Wappinger Creek."

Designating Wappinger Creek as an inland waterway would allow municipalities along the creek to receive federal dollars for flood mitigation, wastewater management, and waterfront revitalization. The following municipalities in Dutchess County would be eligible: Pine Plains, Milan, Stanford, Washington, Millbrook, Hyde Park, Clinton, Pleasant Valley, LaGrange, Poughkeepsie, Wappinger, Wappingers Falls and Fishkill.

“I want to thank Senator Gipson and Assemblymember Barrett for taking action, working with the Village of Wappingers Falls, and introducing this legislation to aid our efforts in making improvements to the village’s waterfront,” said Village of Wappingers Falls Mayor Matt Alexander. “Additionally, we are thankful to Senator Gipson for this funding for the sidewalk construction on E. Main Street.”

Added Town of Wappinger Supervisor Barbara Gutzler: “Senator Gipson and Assemblymember Barrett’s legislation would allow our town access to new sources of funding to put toward smart investments in mitigating potential flood damage.”

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