Nassau County and Town of North Hempstead officials recently joined residents on a tour of a Searingtown flood mitigation project. The Aug. 6 visit to the project on the corner of Crescent Drive and Woodville Lane was aimed at keeping the community current on the progress of the work.
“I am extremely pleased to see this project underway,” said town Supervisor Jon Kaiman on arrival at the construction site. “The Town is committed to the swift completion of this project so residents can safely navigate these roads as soon as possible.”
Financed in part by a $688,000 grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, the four-phase project includes installation of larger pumps, an emergency generator and drainage structures for additional storage and groundwater infiltration
In recent years, storm water runoff had flowed to a low point at the intersection of Crescent Drive and Woodville Lane, where it was collected and pumped off site. That intersection suffered frequent flooding, cutting off access for to residential properties for homeowners, guests and emergency vehicles.
“This project is essential to the safety of the homeowners of this neighborhood as it not only ensures that residents can get to or leave their homes during a rainstorm, but that emergency personnel can access these roads as well,” said town Councilman Tom Dwyer.
Bancker Construction, the lead contractor on the project, is currently working on Phase I of the project, which includes a brand-new above ground control panel and other electrical and mechanical upgrades. The work is slated for completion the first week of September. Phase II will consist of the installation of permanent drainage structures, Phase III will include the installation of a permanent generator and Phase IV will include a device that will keep sediment out of the well. Phases III and IV are still in the development stage and will require town board approval.
“After meeting with constituents in this neighborhood, it is apparent how relieved they are that this project is underway,’ County Legislator Wayne Wink said. “It is important that we continue to keep an eye on areas that are prone to flooding to preserve safety for homeowners.”
“It is essential that we continue to locate major flood issues like this one, and identify available grants in order to lessen the impact on taxpayers,” County Legislator Judi Bosworth added.
Norm Sandes, president of the Searingtown Neighborhood Civic Association, who lives on Crescent Drive said he was thankful for the town’s work.
“We are extremely gratified that this work is being done for the residents of this neighborhood,” Sandes
