By Judy Griffin
I firmly believe that the residents of Nassau County, and the constituents I serve in Assembly District 21, appreciate good government. We have many layers of government, and we serve our constituents best when we partner and work together to resolve issues, provide essential services and take action to positively impact the lives of the people we represent. I value good government, and would like to point out the following example of it.
Good government was at the forefront when we proudly celebrated the grand opening of Whelan Park, in Malverne, on Sept. 4. This was a wonderful opportunity to show how the community benefits when all levels of government work in sync on a shared goal.
The Village of Malverne’s mayor and trustees, former mayors, local and state partners, the commissioner of New York State Homes and Community Renewal and the governor collaborated over several years to bring this project to fruition. I applaud their dedicated efforts in prioritizing this project, and working together to provide a vibrant recreational space that encourages participation in healthy activities and inspires community connection. I was happy to play a role early in the planning of this project, in 2019 and 2020.
One of the best things about Whelan Park is that it offers something for everyone, so now residents of all ages can enjoy this beautiful recreational space. I look forward to seeing my constituents enjoying the two new ball fields, the scenic pedestrian path with exercise stations and educational features, the concession stand and picnic area, the new dog park for animal lovers, and a natural habitat to explore.
Malverne has always been a village that values family, tradition and community, and I have no doubt that Whelan Park will be a cherished gathering place for generations to come. In July it was wonderful to see the park being used for a meaningful community endeavor, when American Legion Post 44 held its Walkathon there. I was thrilled to take part, and to get a sneak peek of the new park.
The extraordinary $6.3 million revitalization and renovation of the park is also an ideal example of how state investment can vastly benefit local communities. I am grateful to Gov. Kathy Hochul for her proactive investment in the areas I represent. This initiative, part of the Mill River drainage program, was administered by Homes and Community Renewal at the direction of the Governor’s Office of Storm Recovery in 2022. This program is vital, because its purpose is to increase the resiliency of communities along the Mill River by managing stormwater, improving habitat and water quality, and increasing recreational access to green space.
This initiative not only provided a revitalized recreational facility, but also strengthened stormwater infrastructure and fortified the area adjacent to Pine Stream to reduce flooding. Although enhancing resiliency and addressing stormwater management to safeguard this area from flooding was the primary focus of the project, I value the combined initiative to benefit the local community. You wouldn’t know by looking at the impressive new ball fields that beneath them lies an underground water-retention basin to contain excess rainwater. The attractive pedestrian paths and surrounding area include permeable pavement, vegetated channels, and grading that were built as natural filters to collect stormwater.
In the years following Hurricane Irene, in 2011, and Superstorm Sandy, in 2012, the state launched several programs to better address flooding. These projects included a Citizens Advisory Council, to ensure that valuable local resident input was a key component. This resulted in strengthened resiliency, fortified the waterways and shorelines against flooding, and improved access to Mill River and streams while enhancing recreational and educational facilities at Hempstead Lake State Park and adjacent areas.
There are so many other exciting potential projects along the shorelines and throughout the 21st District that would enhance our quality of life. I am continually working with the governor’s office, the Assembly majority and local leaders to make investments that will enrich our communities.
This is just one example of what’s possible when the people elected to serve us work together toward the betterment of citizens and our communities. Time spent collaborating and planning, with constructive intentions, almost always ends in good results for taxpayers. We need more of this in our government, and it’s not difficult to achieve. Whelan Park is a shining example of what can happen when government focuses on people, not politics.
Judy Griffin represents the 21st Assembly District.
