Future Of Beloved Long Beach Boardwalk Hangs In The Balance
LONG BEACH, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) -- Long Beach residents gathered for a public hearing Wednesday night, discussing the future of their beloved boardwalk.
Demolition of the boardwalk, which was badly damaged by Superstorm Sandy, began weeks ago.
Sammy Eduardo, 12, was one of about 80 people at the meeting talking about what they like and miss about the Long Beach boardwalk.
LINK: Weigh In Yourself By Taking A Survey On The Boardwalk Redevelopment
"I like to like meet my friends and ride my bike to school on the boardwalk," he told 1010 WINS' Holli Haerr.
Long Beach Residents Discuss Boardwalk Redevelopment
People divided into tables, with each table getting to discuss what they use the boardwalk for and what they'd like to see in the future when the boardwalk is rebuilt.
"Elevate the boardwalk by eight feet," one person said.
"I grew up here and the boardwalk is a symbol of this town. I mean, to look out my window right now and, I live a block off the ocean, and not see a boardwalk there, it's very odd," said another man.
The results of the hearings will be presented at a public hearing on Feb. 20.
Amy Engel, with Sustainable Long Island, said meetings are scheduled for next Monday and Wednesday.
"It's called an interactive visioning session and it makes sure that every single person has a chance to share their ideas," Engel said.
Most people at the meeting said the same thing: They use the boardwalk all year, they want it rebuilt better and stronger than before.
That's exactly what Long Beach officials hope to accomplish by the summer.
What do you think should happen with the Long Beach boardwalk? Share your thoughts below...
