Legislator Calarco announces imminent emergency action to dredge shoaling at the mouth of the Swan River in East Patchogue. The shoaling, caused by severe storms, has become extremely dangeros, making passage even in high tide difficult and at low tide impossible for most boats.
Despite not being on the designated high priority list by the Town of Brookhaven, the conditions prompted the county to seek emergency authorization to remove the ever-growing sandbar. In a very short period time, the Department of Public Works was able to submit and receive permits from the United States Army Corps of Engineer and the New York Department of Environmental Conservation. Permits will allow for both emergency dredging to address the shoaling as well as a 10-year maintenance program. The emergency work will commence in the near future, and will be conducted from the shoreline and may cause periods where boaters will not be able to traverse the area.
"My office worked closely with the offices of Senator Chuck Schumer and Governor Cuomo to obtain the permits from the ACOE and the NYS DEC. I want to thank them and the staff of the Department of Public Works to expedite this process, and as of yesterday, all the permits were approved. The importance of partnerships cannot be understated, especially when it comes to protecting the well-being of our waters and the environment," said Presiding Officer Rob Calarco.
Calarco added “I am so happy to announce this action, as I will ensure that all of the residents who keep or launch their boats from the Swan River will be able to enjoy our waters the summer.”