Connect with us

Government

Town of Clarkstown, State and Federal Officials Demand Action for State Route 59 Flooding

Published

on

NEW CITY, NY – Clarkstown Supervisor George Hoehmann and the Town Board, along with Assemblyman Ken Zebrowski, Senator Bill Weber, Congressman Mike Lawler’s office and Highway Superintendent Bob Milone held a press conference today at the site of the recurring State Route 59 flooding and road closures.

In the last year, State Route 59 in West Nyack has been closed 8 times due to rain events, with the 9th time expected this upcoming weekend due to forecasted weather conditions. Town, State and Federal officials joined together calling for the State to take action, since State Route 59 is a state road, with a taskforce of agencies needed to solve this problem.

State Route 59 is used by over 45,000 cars a day. It is a main artery for commercial business in the town and region, and for police, fire and EMS. Every day that the road is closed has catastrophic safety and economic impacts.

Requested actions called for:

State to take the lead in a multi-agency task force approach to solve this problem. Only the state can take this action since it is a state road.

Army Corp. of Engineers to dredge the Hackensack River.

State to add drainage basin capacity in areas impacted by the flooding.

State to increase culvert capacity on Route 303 that is causing the issues on Rt. 59.

Replacing/Repairing CSX bridge that serves as a choke point for water causing more flooding.

Since this is a State Route, the Town of Clarkstown cannot take independent action. Only the state is authorized to do the work necessary to fix this recurring problem.

Supervisor George Hoehmann stated, “We are calling for action and a comprehensive approach to correct the flooding on Rt. 59 in West Nyack. This will require all levels of government to work together, but the state must take the lead and develop a plan. This will also require the federal government to address the Hackensack River, likely allowing dredging and other solutions. I look forward to working with my colleagues in government to fix this problem.”

Assemblyman Ken Zebrowski stated, “Flooding on Route 59 routinely causes traffic issues for drivers across Rockland County. The rise in severe rain storms has only made the problem worse. It is time for the state DOT to take action on this roadway and remedy the cause of this flooding. While the causes are broad and varied, the DOT must serve as the lead agency, developing the engineering remedies so that we can secure the funding and support necessary to fix this roadway. I will continue to work with my colleagues at all levels of government to ensure that they do so.”

Senator Bill Weber stated, “My colleagues and I gathered to address persistent flooding on route 59 near the Palisades Mall as a result of the Hackensack River overflowing each time there is a rainstorm. Together with Supervisor George Hoehmann, Assemblyman Ken Zebrowski, and Congressman Mike Lawler, I am committed to effectively resolving this issue, ensuring the safety of our residents and their ability to pass through Rt. 59 even during a storm. The four of us are collaborating with multiple agencies to finally fix this problem which has occurred eight times last year alone.”

Congressman Mike Lawler stated, “The habitual flooding on Route 59 is a major concern that requires immediate attention. Throughout the appropriations process, I’ve made it a top priority to secure funding for important Hudson Valley priorities, including critical flood prevention projects and infrastructure. In the House-passed appropriations bill for Homeland Security, we secured millions for a project on Jeffrey Court. New York sends far more of our tax dollars to Washington than we receive back. I will never stop fighting for the funding our community needs and look forward to seeing the fruition of this important project.”

Continue Reading
Advertisement

Government

Rockland County Department of Consumer Protection is Warning Residents About a Resurfacing Scam

Published

on

Recent reports from local businesses and residents indicate that scammers are posing as legitimate contracting companies, falsely claiming urgent structural issues to convince homeowners to sign expensive contracts for unnecessary repairs.

In one instance, scammers impersonated a reputable roofing company, Gikas Roofing, and tricked a homeowner into signing a $78,000 contract for fraudulent roof repairs. A similar case involved an elderly woman who paid $60,000 for a roof replacement she didn’t need—only for the scammers to disappear after causing damage to her home.

“These types of scams follow a familiar pattern, with unlicensed contractors using scare tactics to rush homeowners into making costly decisions,” said Rockland County Consumer Protection Director Kimberly Von Ronn. “Our department successfully impounded a vehicle and is working closely with the company being impersonated, along with Orangetown Building and Police Departments, but we urge families to be vigilant.”

Always remember to:

  • Ask for proof of a Rockland County license and insurance. A New Jersey license does not qualify in Rockland County.
  • Do not make immediate decisions under pressure. Take time to research and compare contractors.
  • Never pay in full upfront. Legitimate contractors will provide a written contract and schedule reasonable payments.
  • If approached by an unsolicited contractor, contact Rockland County Consumer Protection immediately.

If you suspect a scam, contact the Rockland County Department of Consumer Protection at [email protected] or 845-364-3901.

Continue Reading

Government

Rockland County Honors Marine Corps Veteran Elizabeth Rubio with 2025 Freedom Award

Published

on

County Executive Ed Day and Director Susan Branam of the Rockland County Veterans Service Agency recognized a female veteran with the Freedom Award Monday, an annual County honor made to female veterans for outstanding service to our nation.

“Acknowledging those who have worked and sacrificed to protect the freedoms we enjoy is crucial, particularly women whose contributions to building and protecting our country have long been overlooked.” said County Executive Ed Day.

The 2025 Freedom Award was presented to Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Veteran Elizabeth “Lisa” Rubio. Rubio, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, served honorably from 2011 to 2019, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant. Throughout her career, she held key roles across multiple commands, including Marine Corps Recruiting Command and U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command. A dedicated leader, she supported multinational training exercises, mentored recruits, and earned multiple commendations, including two Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals.

After her military service, Lisa continued her commitment to others as a Veterans Service Officer in the County of Rockland, securing $12 million in benefits for local veterans and surviving spouses. Now pursuing a law degree, she remains devoted to advocacy and service.

“I am so proud to present this award to Lisa who not only has been a trailblazer as a female Marine, but a dedicated Veteran Service Officer, and now is completing her first year in law school. I have no doubt that she will continue to do well and serve as an inspiration to future generations,” said Veterans Service Agency Director, Susan Branam.

“We thank Lisa for her bravery and continued commitment to our residents. We are proud to list your name among the women recipients of the Rockland County Freedom Award in years past,” concluded County Executive Ed Day.

Continue Reading

Trending