Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins has approved a $1.2 million bond act and signed a key Intermunicipal Agreement (IMA) with the Village of Briarcliff Manor, paving the way for a $2.4 million flood mitigation project at Law Memorial Park. This initiative marks the County’s continued efforts to address the challenges posed by extreme weather.
The project is part of the County’s Storm Water Management Law (SWML) program, which funds municipalities for critical flood control measures. The planned improvements include upgrading two portions of the park’s basin, installing advanced drainage infrastructure along Pine Road to curb overland runoff, and creating an additional outfall from the park’s pond to alleviate recurring flooding. These enhancements aim to enhance the safety of residents and infrastructure in a community that has faced significant challenges due to extreme weather.
The agreement signed with Briarcliff Manor formalizes the County’s contribution to the project. The Village will oversee construction and provide the County with an easement on the project site for the bond’s 30-year term. The County’s funding represents 50% of the project’s cost, with the remaining amount covered by the Village and other sources.
Jenkins said: “Westchester County is leading the charge in building a future that prioritizes safety, sustainability and resilience. By partnering with Briarcliff Manor on this flood mitigation project, we address a long-standing issue and ensure that residents and local infrastructure are better protected against future flooding.”
Briarcliff Mayor Steven A. Vescio said: “The Village of Briarcliff Manor is pleased to partner with Westchester County in addressing long term flooding issues within the Law Park Drainage Basin. The new outlet that will be installed from the pond will ensure that the Village pool isn’t damaged from large storms events, preventing recreational shutdowns and costly repairs. With drainage installation on Pine Road, the regular flooding impacts on residents’ properties due to stormwater transversing the surface will be mitigated. The county’s involvement and support for this project has allowed these greatly needed infrastructure improvements to become a reality.”
The County has prioritized flood mitigation in its long-term capital strategy, with over $116 million allocated to stormwater management projects across Westchester. These investments reflect a forward-thinking infrastructure approach that addresses immediate needs and future climate resilience. As Westchester County moves forward with projects like this, County Executive Ken Jenkins reaffirms his dedication to creating sustainable solutions that benefit all residents.
