Acting Secretary of State Apporves Local Plans to Revitalize Fire Island Waterfront

ALBANY, NY (11/15/2010)(readMedia)-- New York State Acting Secretary of State Ruth Noemí Colón announced today her approval of the Village of Ocean Beach Local Waterfront Revitalization Program (LWRP), a long-term land and water use program for the Fire Island Village.

"The Village of Ocean Beach is to be commended for establishing a long-term revitalization program that seeks to strengthen the local economy, expand waterfront access opportunities and protect natural and cultural resources," Acting Secretary Colón said. "The Local Waterfront Revitalization Program establishes a consensus between the Village and the state, assuring that we work in partnership to implement this revitalization strategy. We stand committed to continuing our productive partnership with Ocean Beach to revitalize and protect its community and natural resources."

Village Mayor James S. Mallott said: "The Local Waterfront Revitalization Program is a long-term strategy for revitalization of our community, enhancement of recreational opportunities and protection of Fire Island. The Department of State's support has been a key to advancing our revitalization efforts. The Local Waterfront Revitalization Program not only identifies local needs but also assures that the Village and the state of New York work in partnership to revitalize our community. We greatly appreciate the Department of State's efforts to work as a partner with us."

The Department of State works in partnership with more than 200 communities across the state through the Local Waterfront Revitalization Program, from Sag Harbor on Long Island=s east end to Buffalo along Lake Erie.

A key part of an LWRP is an implementation strategy that describes what the community can do on its own and where it needs help from state and other public agencies. As part of the Village's LWRP, Ocean Beach adopted local consistency review and harbor management laws needed to implement the policies and uses set forth in the program.

Preparation of Ocean Beach's LWRP was financed through a $20,000 Department of State grant, as money from the state Environmental Protection Fund is available to waterfront communities for both the preparation and implementation of these programs.

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