Babylon Receives $300K For Argyle Falls Restoration Project

BABYLON, NY - Village of Babylon officials announced in a press conference on Tuesday that they received $300,000 to restore Argyle Falls.

Most recently, the village was awarded $100,000 as part of the "Jumpstart Grant" by Suffolk County’s Department of Economic Development and Planning.

"Argyle Falls is iconic. It is Babylon Village history whether coming into or leaving the Village," Mayor Ralph Scordino said in a statement. "It adds value to our community and downtown, and will be around for generations to come for everyone to enjoy and create memories."

In addition, over the summer Babylon Village resident Theresa Santmann, who was also present at the press conference, made a $200,000 donation to the Argyle Falls restoration project.

"Over the years, Mrs. Santmann has given so much to our community, to various organizations, her volunteerism and her heart," Mayor Scordino said. "Mrs. Santmann truly shows her love for her hometown every day."

The village will continue to move forward with plans and preparations for restoration while waiting for an additional grant from the New York State Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation fund.

Argyle Falls is an landmark built in the 1920s as a World War I memorial.

The restoration project includes cement patchwork, concrete railing and baluster repair, concrete sidewalk repair and replacement, sandblasting and painting of concrete.

The total cost of the project might reach $500,000.