The Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy (JBRPC) on Oct. 10 received $350,000 in state funding to support its initiatives to preserve Jamaica Bay’s unique ecosystems.
The funding, which includes $200,000 from the New York State Senate and $150,000 from the Assembly, is sponsored by Senator Roxanne J. Persaud and Assembly Members Jaime Williams and Stacey Pheffer-Amato, according to a press release.
It will support various projects, including ecological restoration and workforce development, as well as educational programming that aims to foster a deeper appreciation for the biodiversity of Jamaica Bay.
“Jamaica Bay is a treasure for our community and a vital habitat for wildlife. This funding will empower the Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy to continue its essential work in preserving our natural resources and educating the public about their importance," Persaud said.
Assembly Member Williams emphasized the importance of protecting the shoreline and wildlife habitats of Jamaica Bay, saying it is the community's "first defense against any storms or hurricanes."
“Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy has repeatedly proven itself as a leader in conservation and will now be able to further implement educational programming, coordinate cleanings and repair our shorelines. Jamaica Bay is the Crown Jewel of NYC and must be protected!" said Assembly Member Pheffer-Amato.
Terri Carta, executive director of JBRPC thanked the elected officials for their leadership in keeping New York City’s largest tidal estuary clean, safe and accessible.
“This transformative multi-year support will enable JBRPC to increase environmental stewardship, broaden ecological education and work with community partners on initiatives like reactivating historic airplane hangars at Floyd Bennett Field for community and cultural programming," she said.
