Office of Borough President James P. Molinaro
Staten Island, New York
Molinaro Expresses Support for Acquisition of New Bluebelt Property
Borough President James P. Molinaro today stated his support for acquisition of property in the Richmondtown area for inclusion in the Richmond Creek Bluebelt.
Last year, the New York City Department of Environmental Protection completed its Bluebelt project at Richmond Creek. Residents of the community strongly believe that the bordering property should be acquired to keep the creek system operating effectively.
“I am very supportive of the Bluebelt system. It is an ingenious method of storm water management. That’s why Councilman Oddo and I have championed three new Bluebelts in the Mid-Island for our Borough. However, it is extremely costly to acquire private property on Staten Island. Even a purchase of small parcels can cost millions of dollars,” Molinaro said.
“The difficulty in acquiring land for the Bluebelt is another prime example of why we need an open space commission. Recently, I asked the City Charter Revision Commission to include a proposition on the upcoming ballot that would create a Borough Preservation Commission. The creation of this body is the only way we can consistently set aside land for purposes such as Bluebelt construction and parkland acquisition. Unfortunately, the Charter Commission denied my request, but I intend to pursue this idea again next year,” Molinaro said.
“In the meantime, I will work with the DEP to identify priority parcels for the Richmond Creek Bluebelt, in the event we can secure funding for acquisition. I applaud Mayor Michael Bloomberg for his support of the Bluebelt over the years, and greatly appreciate the active cooperation of DEP Commissioner Emily Lloyd. Staten Islanders are fortunate to have a City Administration that understands our Borough’s need for Bluebelts as a cost-effective way to prevent flooding and preserve natural areas,” Molinaro concluded.
Councilman Oddo said, “ Borough President Molinaro's support for acquiring environmentally sensitive property within the Richmond Creek watershed is great news for the cause of forever preserving this critical area. Since first meeting with the Richmond Creek Watershed Committee in September 2004, we have been pursuing relief that only the City can provide. The efforts of my office and those of the many civic and community groups who are committed to preserving and protecting this land instantly have been bolstered by the support and assistance pledged by the Borough President. This is a very important step in what has been a long journey, a step I believe that will greatly help in making the acquisition of this land a reality.”
October 13, 2005