Bosworth: 'Optimistic' on Securing Federal Funding for Town Projects

North Hempstead Supervisor Judi Bosworth (D-Great Neck) traveled to Washington D.C. recently to meet with federal officials to obtain funding for what town officials describe as several "high priority projects," ranging from waterfront revitalization to disadvantaged youth.

Asked about whether the town would secure federal funding to bury utility wires, after a public outcry regarding the PSEG powerline installation project that runs between Port Washington and Great Neck, a spokesman told Patch there was no update yet.

Still, Bosworth was optimistic about securing funds for other North Hempstead projects.

On April 2-3, Bosworth met with Sen. Charles Schumer (D-NY) Sen. Kirsten E. Gillibrand’s (D-NY) staff, Rep. Steve Israel (D-Huntington) and Rep. Carolyn McCarthy, D-Mineola, and several federal agencies.

“I was encouraged by the responsiveness of our federal officials to projects that are so important to the people of the Town of North Hempstead,” Bosworth said, in a statement.  “I am optimistic that we will obtain the funds so that we can undertake a variety of initiatives that will enhance the quality of life in the Town.”

Schumer discussed several environmental and waterfront revitalization enhancements with Bosworth, including shoreline restoration, pond rehabilitation and other improvements.

Bosworth focused on those issues with Israel as well, in addition to clean water initiatives for Manhasset Bay and Hempstead Harbor, securing more funding for the Project Independence senior program and for the Town’s energy needs.

McCarthy, whose district includes New Cassel, met with Bosworth to discuss the ongoing revitalization of New Cassel, an initiative in which McCarthy has played an integral role over the years.  The two discussed bringing a financial institution to Prospect Avenue.

Gillibrand’s staff spoke about potential funding sources for Project Independence and programming for disadvantaged youth.

Bosworth also met with federal agencies, including the National Endowment of the Arts, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Army Corp of Engineers, and FEMA to discuss grant opportunities for the Town.

To secure funding for some of these initiatives, the town must apply for federal grants, a process to begin shortly.

“A collaborative approach throughout all levels of government is critical to getting things done,” Bosworth said.  

“We are extremely fortunate to have a responsive and engaged New York delegation at the federal level,” she added.  “I look forward to partnering with them on so many of these important initiatives for our town.”