Press Release: NYS, May 14, 2004

Governor George E. Pataki today announced more than $2.4 million in Environmental Protection Fund (EPF) grants for twelve open space, recreation and historic preservation projects in Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens. Highlights of the awards include a $320,000 grant for a major restoration to the historic fireboat John J. Harvey, $244,000 for the USS Intrepid, $350,000 to enhance facilities at McCarren Park in Greenpoint and more than $348,000 to improve 30 community gardens throughout New York City.

"From a park in Greenpoint to community gardens and waterfront recreation across the metropolitan area, these grants underscore our efforts to preserve our State's precious natural and cultural resources, expand public access to open space and safeguard local treasures for future generations," Governor Pataki said. "This funding demonstrates our continued commitment to work with local communities to invest in projects that enhance urban neighborhoods and greatly enrich the quality of life for residents here in New York City."

Highlights of the grants announced today include $320,000 to Save our Ships New York for the John J. Harvey fireboat that will support restoration work to the frames, plating decks, wheelhouse, propulsion and other infrastructure of the historic vessel; a $350,000 grant to New York City Parks to support improvements to McCarren Park in Brooklyn, including the establishment of a new skate board park and the resurfacing of a recreation field; a $300,000 grant for exterior renovation work at the New Utrecht Reformed Church.

Across the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan and Queens, the Trust for Public Land will receive nearly $350,000 for improvements to 30 community gardens including the removal of dilapidated fences and installation of new, decorative steel fences to enhance the residential streetscapes and provide a sense of permanency. Additional grants will fund projects to restore the Theodore Roosevelt Monument, the 17th century Old Quaker Meeting House, and increase access to waterfront recreation in Riverside Park and Brooklyn's Mill Basin.

State Senator Martin Golden said, "The New Utrecht Reformed Church has been part of the community since 1827 and is the last vestigate of 17th-18th Century community life left in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn. As the Church faces dire need for renovations and repairs, in order to preserve the historical importance, this funding could not have come at a more crucial time. I applaud Governor Pataki and his administration for recognizing this most important need. The future of this Church was in jeopardy but the State's grant will ensure that this facility continues to inspire a community. Our pleas to save this site have been heard."

Senator Carl Kruger said, "I applaud Governor Pataki for his vision and commitment to the Mill Basin Waterfront Plan. That vision has already secured millions of dollars and has made our dreams and hopes a reality. I am proud to a part of his team."

Robert Lenney, President of Save Our Ships New York, said, "The John J. Harvey has served New York City and the Empire State since 1931and we are happy and proud that this grant will enable her to serve the region for years to come. We thank Governor Pataki and Commissioner Castro for their continuing support of historic vessels." Andy Stone, director of the New York City Program of the Trust for Public Land, said, "We are grateful to Governor Pataki for this investment in the nation's newest and largest urban land trust. Improvements at community gardens throughout New York City are making these community gathering spaces safer, more accessible, and more aesthetically pleasing."

Commissioner Bernadette Castro of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation said, "Through these Environmental Protection Fund awards, Governor Pataki has once again demonstrated an unprecedented commitment to protecting the Empire State's diverse outdoor resources and remarkable historic landmarks. By expanding public access to urban parklands and gardens and helping preserve our maritime heritage, we are improving communities here in the five boroughs and across the state for the benefit of all New Yorkers."

Since 1995, Governor Pataki has committed nearly $108 million from the EPF, Clean Water/Clean Air Bond Act and Land and Water Conservation Fund through the State Office of Parks Recreation and Historic Preservation to support 845 municipal open space, recreation and historic preservation projects in communities across New York State.

Following is a complete list of grants by county:

Kings County

New Utrecht Reformed Church 
Exterior restoration 						$300,000

City of New York Dept. of Parks and Recreation
McCarren Park Sports Complex				$350,000

New York City Economic Development Corp.
Construction of Esplanade at Mill Basin			$ 50,000

New York County

Ukranian Institute of America		
Restoration of Harry F. Sinclair House			$ 70,000

Save Our Ships New York 
Restoration of John J. Harvey					$320,000

City Parks Foundation
Conservation of Theodore Roosevelt Monument		$ 25,000



The Intrepid Museum Foundation
Rehabilitation of Forecastle and Officers Country		$240,000

Riverside South Planning Corporation
Rehabilitation of W. 69th St. Transfer Bridge			$250,000

Community Synagogue
Façade, Roof and Stained Glass Window Restoration	$320,000

Lower East Side Tenement Museum
Interior Restoration of 97 Orchard Street			$ 50,000

Queens County

Flushing Monthly Meeting of the Religious Society 
	Of Friends
Restoration of Old Quaker Meeting House			$100,000

New York City - Multiple

Trust for Public Land						
Enhancements to 30 Community Gardens			$348,115