Nyack Seeks FEMA Aid in Repairing Marina

Nyack village officials are hoping to receive aid from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to repair the village's marina.

The marina—particularly the west and south bulkheads and beach area in Memorial Park—was damaged this spring during a tempestuous March storm. Village officials estimate the damage caused to the marina basin alone will cost approximately $800,000 to patch up.

"It's a round number," said Village Trustee Steve Knowlton at a Parks Commission meeting this week. "We're still in talks with FEMA." The Parks Commission will play an integral role in facilitating the reconfiguration of the marina, Knowlton added.

The village is still in the process of securing FEMA's help.

"They've helped with small projects in the past," Knowlton said. Recently, FEMA helped to fund repairs of the fishing pier.

"But they're not going tell us what they can pay for this until [the village] has exhausted every other source, like insurance," Knowlton added.

If FEMA does lend aid, it will cover 75 percent of the costs; the state and village will cover 12.5 percent each. Knowlton noted the village's insurance money can cover its portion.

"The long term issue is determining how everyone can coexist down there and best use of marina," Knowlton added, referring to the River Rowing Association and individual boaters.