By Howard Koplowitz
The project includes a plan for new roadways, curbs, tree planting and sewage for an area around Lefferts and Cross Bay boulevards, Albert Road and Hawtree Street.”When the city walks away from (the project), you're going to have a pristine neighborhood and I hope you're going to enjoy it for the next 100 years,” said project manager Barney LaGreca of Daniel Frankfurt, P.C., an engineering and architectural firm based in Manhattan .He said the construction would take 1 1/2 years and portions of traffic would be operating one-way during that period.All water mains in the area will be replaced or relined and sewers will either be lined, which would add another 50 years to their life, or they will be replaced. The area will also be getting additional sewers.LaGreca said the city would need ownership of streets to do the renovations.”Do not be fearful of acquisition,” he told the attendees, adding that his main reason for updating the community on the project was to convince residents they should not be worried in the event that the city would be taking over some of their property temporarily.The board held a voice vote on the issue and no member expressed opposition to the plan.While City Councilman Joseph Addabbo (D-Howard Beach) acknowledges the benefits of such a project to both the community and workers, he does have some concerns.”It's going to be a temporary disruption to our residents on a daily basis.” he said.Addabbo cited a similar project as the basis for his concerns. He said some of his constituents had to “literally walk the plank” when a wood slab was used by pedestrians during sidewalk construction.He also said residents will not be happy to learn that their water will be shut off for a few days. LaGreca failed to mention that possibility during his presentation.Addabbo suggested that a manageable-size committee of civil groups meet with LaGreca in 2006 to make sure the community knows what to expect of the reconstruction process. LaGreca said the city Department of Design and Construction plans on holding such meetings after the final design phase of the project is completed.The board also elected “new” officers at the meeting, but the only nominees for each post held that office last year.Chairwoman Elizabeth Braton also accepted the resignation of Anne Grossberg, a former district manager and current board member, because of personal commitments.Reach intern Howard Koplowitzby e-mail at news@timesledger.com or by phone at 718-229-0300, Ext. 188.
