“The New York waterways provide an exciting source of recreational activities such as boating and fishing, not only during the summer months, but throughout the year,” said Congresswoman Carolyn McCarthy. “I am pleased to learn that here on Long Island, Hempstead will be included in this round of vessels. These patrol boats will assist law enforcement agencies and help to ensure the safety of our waterways and I applaud Governor Cuomo for continuing his efforts to protect both New York residents and tourists.”

Boating has a $2.1 billion impact on the State’s economy. New York is the only state that borders marine tidewaters, the Great Lakes and large interior freshwater lakes, in addition to having an extensive canal system. New York is eighth in the nation for registered watercraft — not including non-powered boats like kayaks and canoes, which make up a large proportion of the boats in the North.

“Intergovernmental cooperation is something that helps governments operate more efficiently and cost effectively,” said Hempstead Town Supervisor Kate Murray. “In this case, we are extremely grateful to New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo and New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Commissioner Rose Harvey for providing a 25-foot Boston Whaler boat for our Bay Constables’ fleet. This new boat will be extremely helpful in BWI enforcement, monitoring of wetlands and conducting various missions in the event of future storms.”

This year’s State budget includes $90 million in New York Works funding for improvements to State Parks and historic sites, including boat launches, marinas and campgrounds. Launched by the governor in 2012, New York Works is advancing repair and improvement projects at 109 State Parks and historic sites across the State.