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Since the Coast Guard announced a proposal that would include the installation of 16 anchor berths across 715 acres on the water between Yonkers and Dobbs Ferry, it has come under fire from local, county and state officials.
Earlier this month, following the public outcry, the Coast Guard extended the public comment period for the plan by 60 days. Just last week, the Westchester County Board of Legislators became the first to pass legislation in opposition of the plan.
“The Hudson River offers a unique natural beauty, and these communities tout the proximity to it as an enormous economic asset,” Stewart-Cousins said. “These towns have invested millions of dollars to spur economic development along the river under the assumption this beauty would not be infringed upon.
“These anchorages threaten the aesthetic value of the wonderful views the river affords and will obstruct free use of the river for boaters, kayakers, swimmers and others.”
Stewart-Cousins added that there are environmental concerns with barges, which are prone to spillage.
“An oil spill would not only endanger revitalization efforts, but also put the health and safety of residents at risk. Creating a parking lot for barges in Yonkers and the Rivertowns will contribute to the industrialization of the Hudson River; a process that New York State and these communities have spent millions of dollars to reverse.”
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