State funds $2.5 million seawall project

Assemblyman Khaleel Anderson announced a $2.5 million state investment on Wednesday to fund the stabilization and reconstruction of the seawall at the Beach 43rd Street Waterfront Park. The project aims to provide flood protection for the park and the neighboring homes in Edgemere. The announcement took place on the 14th anniversary of Superstorm Sandy, a date Anderson noted changed the lives of local residents.

The state funding will fully cover the cost of the construction. Anderson stated that the governor is awarding the money specifically to stabilize and rebuild the seawall. He emphasized that the primary goal is to protect the neighbors whose homes are located on the block. The investment ensures the project will move forward without gaps in financing.

Meira Berkower, Chief of Staff to Queens Parks Commissioner Jackie Langsam, provided a timeline for the work. She explained that the process generally requires one year for design, one year for procurement, and one year for construction. Because the site is on the water, the timeline may extend to three or four years. The project is fully funded by the state, which allows for this phased approach.

Jackie Rogers, President of Garden by the Bay and Edgemere Alliance, expressed gratitude for the new infrastructure. She described the seawall as a key element in bringing resources to the community. Rogers said that advocacy and consistent action have led to this result. She emphasized that protecting the residents is the most important aspect of the project.

Malik Sanders, Executive Director of ReAL Edgemere Community Land Trust, called the community a model of resilience. He noted that many people do not pay attention to water issues until they face personal risk. Sanders thanked the state for directing attention and resources to the bay area. He viewed the project as a step forward for the neighborhood.

Kyler Gabb attended the press conference in honor of his brother, former Community Board 14 member Jaden Gabb. Jaden started Project B43 at age 17 to address local needs. In an online statement, Jaden said he believed young people did not need permission to make a difference. He stated that the project made him proud and acknowledged the work his brother has done since.

Other attendees included Amanda Lefton, Commissioner of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. Elizabeth Walsack, Rockaway Parks Administrator, and Felicia Johnson, District Manager of Community Board 14, also spoke. The group of 25 civic leaders and residents applauded after Anderson’s initial remarks. The site overlooks Norton Basin and the old Edgemere landfill.