Government

Nyack Mayor Joe Rand Provides Update on Two Major Revitalization Projects

Published

1 year ago

June 10, 2025

NYACK, NY – Village of Nyack Mayor Joe Rand provide updates bout the two major revitalization projects going on right now: the NY Forward Downtown Revitalization program, and the Memorial Park Improvements Project.

Nyack Mayor Joe Rand – To all my Nyackers and Neighbors,

We have so much going on with Village planning, that it’s hard to keep track. So I want to take a moment to clarify the two major revitalization initiatives going on.

1. THE NY FORWARD GRANT

As you know, in March we were awarded a $4.5M downtown revitalization grant from New York State. Right now, we are in the process of soliciting proposals from the public (including nonprofits, private businesses, and individuals) for how to spend that money. As part of that process, you can do the following:
* Come to our next NY Forward Local Planning Committee, when we will be providing updates on where we are and discuss the Open Call for Projects. That’s Wednesday, June 11, 5:30-7:30PM at Village Hall. The public is invited and will have an opportunity to comment.

* If you have an idea for a project, make sure to review the “Call for Open Projects” on the Nyack NY Forward website at www.nyacknyf.com/open-call-for-projects. And then if you’re interested, fill out a project proposal – you can get the form at this link: https://nyack.link/NYFProject

* If you’re a local business owner, take 5 minutes to fill out the Business Owner Survey to share your thoughts on what Nyack needs to do to revitalize the downtown. The survey is here: www.nyack.link/NYFbizsurvey

you have any questions about NY Forward, post in the comments. You can also email NyackNYF@vhb.com for more formal feedback.

2. MEMORIAL PARK IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT

A totally separate initiative is the Memorial Park Shoreline Improvements Project, which is a grant-based program that focuses on rehabilitating and redesigning the existing waterfront pathway along Memorial Park’s shoreline. Planned enhancements include new landscaping, seating and overlook areas, shade trees, updated lighting, and public art and memorials.
We have a committee that has been working with a consultant to come up with ideas for the shoreline park, and has identified two very attractive plans for the waterfront. I’ve attached both of the plans (Plan A and Plan B) as images to this post so you can see them.

More importantly, you can share your thoughts on these plans on a survey that has been set up to get public input. Go to the link here: www.surveymonkey.com/r/MPNyack

It will take ten minutes and you’ll have your voice heard about what we should be doing to improve the park.

Government

Turn Food Scraps Into Compost with Rockland’s Recycling Program

Published

1 week ago

July 18, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

After a summer barbecue or family gathering, those leftover food scraps don’t have to end up in the trash.

Rockland County is encouraging residents to join its Food Scrap Recycling Program, which diverts food waste from landfills and turns it into nutrient-rich compost.

Food scraps that end up in landfills produce methane, a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. By recycling items such as fruit and vegetable peels, coffee grounds, eggshells, and other food waste, residents can help reduce emissions while creating a valuable resource for agriculture and landscaping.

County officials say the program is easy to join and can make a meaningful difference in reducing a household’s environmental footprint.

From banana peels and watermelon rinds to leftovers from backyard cookouts, every bit of food waste recycled helps keep organic material out of landfills.

Residents interested in participating can learn more and sign up through the county’s Food Scrap Recycling Program.

Government

Rockland Health Department Issues Hudson River Recreation Update

Published

3 weeks ago

July 5, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

The Rockland County Department of Health is advising residents that the Yonkers Wastewater Recovery Facility has been fully operational since July 3, while reminding the public to follow state health guidance when recreating on the Hudson River this holiday weekend.

According to the department, the New York State Department of Health and the Department of Environmental Conservation have been coordinating with Rockland and Westchester counties, New York City, and other partner agencies following the wastewater system disruption.

Health officials said residents should not drink untreated Hudson River water under any circumstances. They also advise against swimming or participating in activities that involve full-body immersion at beaches that remain closed.

However, officials said recreational activities involving partial contact with the water—including boating, kayaking, and fishing—are considered safe. Anglers are encouraged to review New York State Department of Health fish consumption advisories before eating their catch.

The Rockland County Department of Health said it will continue working with state and local agencies to monitor conditions.