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Political Pier Pressure Editor's note: The following letter is reprinted to keep our readers informed about a proposal for Canarsie Pier. Barry Sullivan General Superintendent Gateway National Recreation Area 210 New York Avenue Staten Island, NY 10305 Dear Superintendent Sullivan: As elected officials who represent the area encompassing Canarsie Pier, as well as the people of Canarsie, we would like to thank you and your staff for conducting hearings on the proposal to close the Canarsie Pier parking lot from dusk to dawn. Most who attended the August 6th meeting were vehement in their displeasure at the proposal. In our opinion, and that of most in attendance, there were no compelling reasons to close the pier. Captain Ralph Monteforte, commanding officer of the 69th Precinct, stated that the only problems he has encountered there were traffic problems when the parking lot is full. He also indicated that there were no significant reports of criminal activity there and that his officers monitor the location regularly. There does appear to be serious problems with the lighting on the Pier and cleanliness due to lack of workers. These are things that need to be addressed and corrected by the National Park Service and should not be the motivation behind closing the pier. It is our experience that Marine Park is especially prone to vandalism and graffiti in the early morning hours when no one is using it; therefore undesirables have free access to commit criminal acts. During the hearing, several fishermen who have permits to fish off the pier expressed that closing it at any time would prevent them from night fishing, which many of then enjoy. Closing the pier would also have a negative impact on many families and seniors who utilize the pier for relaxing and recreation. We share the opinion of many Canarsie residents that closing the pier from dusk to dawn would be a grave disservice to the community. Sincerely, Alan Maisel Assemblyman-59th District Lew Fidler Councilman-46th District
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