Town Reopens Park & Kayak Launch Once Destroyed by Mother Nature

Town Reopens Park & Kayak Launch Once Destroyed by Mother Nature

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino, Town Clerk Richard LaMarca and Receiver of Taxes Jeffrey Pravato joined with Biltmore Shores Civic Association in celebrating the grand opening of Alhambra Park in Massapequa. Alhambra Park had previously been a scenic waterfront location enjoyed by local residents that was devastated by Superstorm Sandy in 2012. Through the Governor’s Office of Storm Recovery (GOSR), the Town secured more than $4 million in State funds to restore and improve the facility, including measures to mitigate flooding, create better recreational access and provide overall beautification.

 

“Alhambra Park has long been a favorite destination for residents of our south shore and the overall experience will now be better than before,” said Supervisor Saladino. “Through federal funding, we were able to mitigate flooding and provide for water quality improvements while bringing a facelift to the park and improving its overall appeal. Whether you enjoy a picnic, kayaking or walking on the boardwalk, Alhambra Park will be a favorite destination for this neighborhood.”

 

Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Storm Recovery Katie Brennan said, “Alhambra Park is one of Oyster Bay’s most valuable community assets as it provides both opportunities for recreation and helps mitigate flooding.”

 

Improvements to Alhambra Park included installation of new bulkhead, drainage improvements and installation of green infrastructure to reduce flooding. The design of the facility uses bio-retention areas to naturally treat and filter stormwater runoff, thereby removing pollutants from the water prior to its return to our aquifers. The park also features access to the South Shore Blueway Trail with a kayak and canoe launching area. To further enhance safety and security, security cameras will be placed on site and a timber floating dock is being installed for use by the Town’s Bay Constables and the Nassau County Police Department Marine Bureau.