Congressman Crowley: Queens Needs Federal Aid for Blackouts Now

Congressman Crowley: Queens Needs Federal Aid for Blackouts Now

Chief Deputy Whip Joseph Crowley (D-Queens & the Bronx) today was joined by local elected Queens officials in calling on Gov. George Pataki to request President George W. Bush to declare a state of disaster for northwestern Queens, making the area eligible for immediate federal assistance.

Congressman Crowley said, "In this crisis which has left so many people in the dark without power, Queens residents and small business owners deserve more than assurances and explanations - they deserve federal assistance and it should come without further delay.

"Today, I continued to meet with residents and business owners affected by this major power outage that has reached a dangerous threshold as we approach day six of this terrible situation. It has cost people dearly, and it is shameful that so many people have to endure sweltering conditions for a prolonged period.

"It is evident, that there is not enough being done on all levels to restore power and stop the suffering for thousands. I am joined by local elected officials in calling for Governor George Pataki to declare northwestern Queens a disaster area, and request President Bush to provide federal assistance to get things back to normal."

Congressman Crowley visited residents affected by the blackout in Sunnyside, Renaissance Gardens and Boulevard Gardens, among other areas to ensure that basic necessities such as water and ice were being provided, and inform them of reimbursement and financial assistance available for spoilt food. Rep. Crowley also met with a consortium of Sunnyside business owners to discuss the extent of business lost to them in this crisis.

According to officials from Consolidated Edison (Con Ed), almost 25,000 households and businesses in northwestern Queens are still without power. Projected estimates maintain that over 100,000 people are affected. While some progress is being made, heavy rains have made the Sunday deadline for full restoration unlikely.

http://crowley.house.gov/news/record.asp?id=859