Nassau County Legislator Peter J. Schmitt has announced the start of a new project in this area under the county's $100 million Environmental Bond Act Program. The $100 million Environmental Bond Act Program was created in September 2006 to enable the county to purchase and protect open space, improve parks, improve storm water quality and clean up brownfield properties throughout Nassau County. The Bond Act was voted upon by referendum and approved by 77 percent of Nassau County voters.

The program is geared toward protecting and preserving the environment for generations to come. Under the Bond Act Program, properties were nominated for preservation and selected by an advisory committee of environmentalists and conservationists. The first project will be implemented in the Village of Massapequa Park. The Nassau County Legislature voted unanimously to approve a contract for the installation of 300 catch basin inserts throughout Massapequa Park. The catch basins will improve water quality as they collect storm water runoff from the streets. The basins trap contaminants, oil and other debris and prevent the rubbish from entering the underground water system.

"It is very gratifying to fund a joint program with the Village of Massapequa Park. Our drinking water is a precious natural resource and many people do not realize how easily it can be contaminated. The Environmental Bond Act Program is being put to great use to help keep the water fresh and pure," said Legislator Schmitt.