Shorelines To Be Preserved With Community Preservation Funds

Just about a year ago, Superstorm Sandy's winds wreaked havoc on the North and South shores of Long Island, ravaging beaches, tearing down barrier dunes. What officials learned from the experience is that more needs to be done to protect and preserve the East End's natural beauty.

To accomplish their goal in part, they intend to buy 'at risk' shorelines across the East End using community preservation funds.

Since 1999, officials on the East End of Long Island have worked to preserve 10,000 acres of farmland and open space using the Community Preservation taxing system, but were never permitted by law to purchase beachfront.

Now, however, with the signing of a new law, East End municipalities can use CPF money to buy undeveloped waterfront space with a goal protecting shorelines that are at risk of coastal flooding due to projected sea level rise and storms.

Specifically, the law, which was signed by Governor Andrew Cuomo this week and brought fourth by New York State Senator Kenneth P. LaValle’s and Assemblyman Fred Thiele, requires towns within the Peconic Bay region — East Hampton, Riverhead, Shelter Island, Southampton and Southold — to consider areas at risk of storm erosion as part of programs financed by a community preservation fund.

It is effective immediately.

"As we approach the one year anniversary of Superstorm Sandy, it is fitting that we take this step to conserve our beautiful and pristine beaches that not only act as a buffer to protect our coastal communities but also represent an emblematic symbol of Long Island’s east end," said Senator LaValle.

Patch wants to know: What beaches should local municipalities look to preserve? Comment below.