Village of Roslyn officials recently held a storm water meeting with New York State Senator Michael Balboni, one that focused on needed infrastructure improvements to alleviate the Lumber Road storm water incursions into Hempstead Harbor and Roslyn Creek.

"The Village of Roslyn is a member of the Hempstead Harbor Protection Committee that developed the August 2004 Harbor Management Plan for Hempstead Harbor," said Village of Roslyn Mayor John Durkin. "A part of that plan allowed for the creation of walkways along the shorelines of the harbor within the Village of Roslyn. The east shoreline walkway has progressed with the assistance of private developers. The west shoreline walkway is needed as well. To begin that process, it is important that the infrastructure of Lumber Road and the bulkhead be repaired.

"In addition, adjoining private properties are to be improved to protect the outflow of storm water effluents from reaching Hempstead Harbor," the mayor continued. "A main sewer line near the bulkhead must be relocated to a safer location. The discussions with Senator Balboni have been very positive. Senator Balboni has been a strong advocate of protecting the environment and preserving the public use of waterways in New York State. The senator is aware of the village's storm water improvements and east shoreline progress. He is interested in seeking additional ways to assist us with our progress."

"I am impressed with the progress the village is making in complying with the Phase II Storm Water requirements of the state," Senator Balboni added. "All of us must do our best to protect our environment and its precious waterways. The program offered by the village is an ambitious one and deserves as much assistance as can be generated. I am interested in helping as much as I can."

The Geographic Information System (GIS) is used to show an aerial photo of the Roslyn Creek and Lumber Road area including overlays depicting features such as storm drain system, impervious surfaces, hydrology, streams and waterways.

Mapping of these features allows for a clear overview of how these features interact. The information can then be used as a planning tool for projects such as capital improvements to drainage structures and systems to meet the requirements of the New York State Phase II Storm Water Program. A significant goal of this program is to reduce the amount of contaminants in the storm water prior to it being discharged into the harbors and waterways.