In a unified call for action, local and state officials joined forces to address the ongoing issue of flooding on Route 59 near the Palisades Mall. This weeks stormy Tuesday night, the problem reared its head for the 17th time in recent memory, leading to road closures and significant inconvenience for Rockland residents.
Clarkstown Supervisor George Hoehmann, Assemblyman Ken Zebrowski, Senator Bill Weber, and Congressman Mike Lawler’s District Leader Rafi Silberberg stood together to address the persistent flooding concerns that have plagued the region, highlighting the urgent need for solutions.
Senator Bill Weber, speaking at the gathering, expressed his gratitude to Supervisor Hoehmann and Assemblyman Zebrowski for their collaboration on this critical matter. He also acknowledged the presence of the media representatives, emphasizing the importance of bringing attention to the issue.
Senator Weber empathized with the frustrations and safety concerns raised by their constituents due to the frequent flooding incidents on Rockland’s primary artery, Route 59. He stressed the importance of maintaining functional transportation infrastructure, especially for Rockland commuters who rely on these routes, rain or shine.
“We don’t have a one-seat ride to NYC; the roads Rockland commuters use need to be functional even during the inevitable inclement weather. We pay some of the highest property taxes in the country; we cannot expect New Yorkers to want to keep living here if their infrastructure is crumbling,” Senator Weber declared.
Senator Weber highlighted that his office had reached out to regional Department of Transportation (DOT) representatives and expressed disappointment that they had yet to provide reassurances or a timeline for resolving the problem. The DOT, he said, had mentioned that addressing the issue would require a multi-agency approach.
However, in response to the lack of clarity from the regional DOT, Senator Weber announced a proactive approach. He had already initiated contact with Congressman Mike Lawler’s office to explore the possibility of securing federal funding for the potential dredging of the Hackensack River, a step towards addressing the root cause of the recurring flooding.
“We don’t need a Band-Aid. We need a long-term plan and the funding to make it a reality! Rest assured, we will all roll up our sleeves, work together, and get this resolved,” Senator Weber emphasized in closing.
The call for action from Clarkstown Supervisor George Hoehmann, Assemblyman Ken Zebrowski, Senator Bill Weber, and Congressman Mike Lawler underscores the urgent need to find a lasting solution to the persistent flooding issue on Route 59. With federal funding prospects in the pipeline and a commitment to collaboration, Rockland residents can hope for a resolution that ensures their safety and convenience in the face of adverse weather conditions.
All this flooding in Rockland is a direct result of corrupt overdevelopment, the same thing is happening in Lakewood. I grew up in monsey and we’ve had much worse storms over the years. The flooding is new and started in recent years.