In a neighborhood where flooding has been a constant problem, the West Hamilton Beach Fire Department received $900 in new devices to combat future tidal troubles, courtesy of state Senator Joe Addabbo and Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato.
The West Hamilton Beach Fire Department, located at 103-23 Davenport Ct., received a water pump, strainer and a hose, according to Pheffer Amato’s office. The pumps include a large 2.9-gallon fuel tank that can run for six hours at a time.
“The need to stay safe with persistent flooding is of utmost importance in the Hamilton Beach community. Preparedness is key, and this water pump will go a long way in ensuring we are ready at a moment’s notice,” Pheffer Amato said.
Deputy Chief Nick Spinelli of West Hamilton Beach Volunteer Fire Department was grateful for the gift and what it will do for the local community.
“When there is high tide, you can barely walk let alone drive your car through the streets of Hamilton Beach. This pump will assist in making the streets safer and protecting our homes,” Spinelli said.
Community Board 10 Chairwoman Betty Braton and the New Hamilton Beach Civic Association President Roger Gendron agreed that while this was no final solution to the flooding problems that the area has faced for years, the gift is a step in the right direction. They also believe that smaller community projects, including work done by volunteer fire departments like Spinelli’s, will further help remedy local flooding problems.
“The civic will work with the West Hamilton Beach Volunteers to come up with a plan of action. Hopefully, this is just the first step in getting a permanent solution to stop the ever-increasing tidal flooding [in] communities all along Jamaica Bay,” Gendron said.
Addabbo was delighted to co-sponsor the project and work toward making the community safer for all.
“This water pump will benefit the entire Hamilton Beach community by helping the fire department make the streets safer for drivers and pedestrians during times of high tide and flooding. I am hopeful this pump and other upcoming mitigation projects will further address the issue of flooding in Hamilton Beach,” Addabbo said.
