Mill Basin Waterfront Slated for Improvements

Governor George Pataki and State Senator Carl Kruger last week announced funding for an esplanade project in Mill Basin. The south Brook-lyn legislator said it is part of a larger plan to "maximize use of southern Brooklyn’s breathtaking and historic waterfront and provide, for the first time, safe and enjoyable access to Mill Basin."

The $50,000 esplanade, which will be located on Flatbush Avenue, between Toys "R" Us and Kings Plaza, is one of a dozen Environmental Protection Fund grants awarded by Pataki for open space, recreation and historic preservation projects in Brook-lyn, Manhattan and Queens.

Kruger said, "Governor Pataki deserves thanks for recognizing the value as well as the potential for public use that exists on the Mill Basin waterfront. Once the esplanade is completed, I look forward to further beautification on this site that will only add to Mill Basin’s uses and appeal."

The senator said the esplanade is part of an anticipated "master plan" to construct a boathouse, landing ramp and dock adjacent to the esplanade site. He noted that while "portions of the master plan have been put on hold due to the budgetary restraints of the city, now that the fiscal climate is more secure, I am confident that with the strong support of Councilman Lew Fidler, funding for this project will be restored."

The boathouse, when constructed, will be used initially by the Beach Channel High School (Queens) crew team — the only crew team within the citywide Public School Athletic League — and then used and operated for other recreational boating uses by the Kings Bay Youth Organization, Inc.

Kruger noted that there are approximately 1,950 linear feet of wharf structures at Mill Basin, portions of which were built in the 1940s. The New York State Economic Development Corporation has already spent $3.92 million to complete bulkhead improvements south of the esplanade site, including the demolition of three derelict buildings, platform stabilization work, platform removal work and bulkhead stabilization work. This work was completed in March 2003.

Senator Kruger said the esplanade project and other anticipated improvements will accomplish "a dramatic transformation to a waterfront site desperately in need of rejuvenation."

"I applaud Governor Pataki for his vision
and commitment to the Mill Basin waterfront plan," Sen. Kruger said. "That vision has already secured millions of dollars and has made our dreams and hopes a reality. I am proud to be a part of this team."

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