Funds Improvements At So. Queens Libraries
Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder secured over $700,000 through the Public Library Construction Grant Program to help renovate the Ozone Park public library and the Sandydamaged Peninsula library in Rockaway Beach.
“Our libraries play an important role in educating our children and families,” said Assemblyman Phillip Goldfeder. “This additional grant funding will go a long way to improve our libraries and help cover the costs of some much needed renovations.”
Goldfeder announced $582,654 was awarded to the Peninsula library located on Rockaway Beach Boulevard and $158,416 to the Ozone Park library located at 92-24 Rockaway Blvd.
After receiving extensive damage from Hurricane Sandy, the Peninsula library is expected to once again reopen its doors early next year. The funding from the Construction Grant Program will cover expenses for interior renovations including: handicapped accessible bathroom, electrical, signage, new roof, security camera system, and help rebuild the new children’s section and adult learning center.
The grant funding secured for the Ozone Park Library will involve interior renovations including: new and renovated restrooms, ceilings and lighting, doors, electrical upgrades and HVAC ductwork.
A recent survey showed a documented need for public library construction and renovation projects totaling more than $2.2 billion. More than 48 percent of the over 1,000 public library buildings in communities across New York are over 60 years old. Another 30 percent are more than three decades old, Goldfeder noted.
“Our public libraries are in need of urgent rebuilding, renovation and upgrading,” he concluded. “Every dime will help ensure our libraries are properly maintained and continue to serve our communities in southern Queens and Rockaway.”
