Local pol scores big bucks for Shore Road Promenade

Ridgeites can look forward to smoother sailing along the Shore Road Promenade.

This summer, sinkholes that have long plagued the bike and pedestrian path will see spruce ups thanks to $500,000 in funding secured by the Parks Department at the request of Councilmember Vincent Gentile.

“This is first and foremost a pressing safety issue,” said Gentile, who represents Bay Ridge and Dyker Heights. “This is one of the most scenic stretches in New York City and to see it in this condition is heartbreaking. I want to ensure the safety of all who utilize this path, and I am elated that we were able to secure the funds needed and thankful for the level of commitment from the Parks Department and Commissioner Mitchell Silver.”

According to Gentile, work will begin shortly, starting at 69th Street and moving south along the path. Furthermore, engineers and contractors will observe the areas around pre-existing sinkholes to discern any underlying conditions that may be causing these sinkholes – many as deep as a foot – to re-open.

Residents were quick to applaud the long-awaited action.

“With the summer finally here, I want to enjoy a nice bike ride from time to time and it’s a godsend to not have to worry about falling on my face every three minutes,” said local bike rider Roberto Castellanos, who hopes to reap the benefits of the fixes before next summer rolls along.

Sarah Collins agreed.

“I think the bike path is something that helps make Bay Ridge unique,” said the lifelong resident, noting that it isn’t just for bikes. “It’s a place to exercise and enjoy the scenery of the city and water. I’m glad to see that we are trying to take better care of our home.”

“We will begin to see improvements in just a few short weeks and conditions will be better from there on,” added Gentile, thanking both Silver for his action and Community Board 10 for its constant attention to the issue. “When it’s all said and done, residents will be able breathe a sigh of relief knowing that they will be able to enjoy all our waterfront has to offer without the concern of dangerous sinkholes.”

The promenade was last renovated nearly a decade ago with roughly $20 million in emergency repair funds secured by the city, state and federal governments because of the dilapidated condition of the bike and pedestrian paths.

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