Engel, Schumer, Gillibrand Issue Statement in Support of the Mamaroneck and Sheldrake Flood Risk Management Study

Statement

Congressman Eliot L. Engel, U.S. Senator Charles Schumer, and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today issued the following statement in support of the Mamaroneck and Sheldrake Flood Risk Management Study, which includes plans to alleviate persistent flooding issues in Mamaroneck, New York:

"For too long, residents and businesses in Mamaroneck who live near the Sheldrake and Mamaroneck Rivers have been plagued with a flooding issue that has wreaked havoc on homeowners and the local economy. This persistent problem has cost residents, businesses, and local taxpayers millions in damages. Each time a flood occurred our offices stood ready to assist the community in the recovery, but it became obvious that a more permanent, long-term solution was necessary for the well-being of Mamaroneck residents.

"Following catastrophic flooding, Mamaroneck residents, businesses and their representatives sought federal help, specifically the expertise of the Army Corps of Engineers, to address this endemic flood-risk. In response to this call for help, our offices secured funding to conduct critical flood mitigation studies and to devise a plan to protect against future damage, which the Army Corps has now completed. That is why we support the latest Mamaroneck and Sheldrake Flood Risk Management Study, which includes plans to modify the Sheldrake and Mamaroneck rivers to curtail constant flooding.

"Last week, with the support and unwavering commitment of our offices, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Civil Works Review Board officially advanced plans to widen, deepen and lengthen the Sheldrake and Mamaroneck rivers; construct 8.5-foot retaining walls; remove or replace five bridges; and create a culvert under a railroad station parking lot. Clearing this important hurdle was a huge step toward implementing this plan, which should go a long way toward alleviating constant flooding. We intend to support the congressional authorization for this proposal and will push to see this project through to completion to protect the lives and economic security of the residents of the Village of Mamaroneck.

"Our message to the U.S Army Corps of Engineers was very clear, that all remediation work must be done with the greatest respect for the rights of property owners, and the greatest care to preserve the usefulness and aesthetic beauty of their land. We urge the Army Corps to continue to work cooperatively with local residents, officials and community leaders. This is a vital project for the village of Mamaroneck and we will continue to work lockstep with the to make this plan a reality."

Source