Want a cleaner Newtown Creek for future generations? Now is the time to speak up!
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) is currently proposing water quality standards that don’t include any actual improvement or reduction of Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO). The plan will lock us into decades of inaction and fall well short of what NCA, Riverkeeper and local communities are calling for: a water body that meets the Clean Water Act goals and is safe for all.
Here’s what’s at stake:
A proposed $1.6 billion investment could capture 100% of Combined Sewer Overflow discharges from the Creek’s four largest outfalls, eliminating sewage discharges from the entire upper half of the Creek.
Now is the time to speak up. Tell NYSDEC to set a goal of water that’s safe for swimming, require additional sewage reduction projects, and establish a clear, enforceable process for achieving stronger water quality standards.
Newtown Creek’s neighbors have waited long enough. Here’s how you can weigh in:
1. Submit your comment via Riverkeeper petition by November 30th!
2. Comment at an NYSDEC public hearing:
In Person Hearing:
Monday, November 16 @ 2PM
NYS DEC – Region 2 Office
47-40 21st Street
Long Island City, NY 11101
Virtual Hearing:
Thursday, November 19 @ 2PM
Register here
