First-Ever Underwater Ribbon Cutting In Hamptons: Video

HAMPTON BAYS, NY — Elected officials spend lots of time at ribbon cuttings, celebrating the opening of new businesses and completion of work in their towns. But Sunday, a ribbon cutting took place in Hampton Bays that literally made history, and a splash — the first-ever ribbon cutting underwater.

The ribbon cutting took place at the Ponquogue Piers in Hampton Bays, one of the most popular diving spots on Long Island.

The renovation of the Ponquogue Piers, the old Ponquogue Bridge, was recently completed last year after the structure was badly damaged during Super Storm Sandy in 2012.

The underwater ribbon cutting had to be done separately because the tides would not have been suitable on October 11, when the on-land ribbon cutting will take place, town officials said..

(Video courtesy of Eco-Photo Explorers)

In November, after months of anticipation and construction, the renovation of the old Ponquogue Bridge fishing pier was completed and the facility once again open to the public, Southampton Town officials said.

However, in light of fall and winter weather, an official grand opening was delayed as the diving community made plans for the underwater ribbon cutting, a release from Southampton Town Supervisor Jay Schneidermn said.

"This was a monumental effort by the town board, trustees, the engineer design group L.K. McLean Associates and contractor Chesterfield Associates to restore these sections of the bridge that will no doubt become a favorite fishing and diving spot," said Schneiderman.

The $2 million reconstruction project kicked off in December, 2017, five years after Hurricane Sandy damaged both sections of the old bridge. The Federal Emergency Management Administration approved the project and reimbursed the town for the renovation, Schneiderman said.

Improvements include a new sustainable deck and handrail; new bulkheads; new recreational access ramps; improved access and safety; and preservation and protection of the marine environment.

The south side of the bridge is used by divers while the north side is more suitable as a fishing pier; Shinnecock Bay is a favorite location for divers and fishermen for its rich natural habitat of marine life, town officials said.

"We are grateful for the community support on this project that protects the environment and makes this a first class diving and fishing destination," said Southampton Town Trustee Scott M. Horowitz.

The reconstruction project was overseen by Southampton Town's department of municipal works; the town's parks and recreation department will manage the upkeep, care and use of the fishing piers.

The north side of the old Ponquogue Bridge, more significantly damaged by the storm, was stabilized, leaving a 21-foot-wide, 61-foot-long fishing pier, Schneiderman said.