Public comment period extended to Dec. 6 for proposed anchorages
September 1, 2016
Riverkeeper Team
Contact: Leah Rae, Media Specialist, lrae@riverkeeper.org, 914-478-4501, ext. 238
Ossining, N.Y. — The U.S. Coast Guard is extending public comment period for the proposed new Hudson River anchorages from September 7 to December 6, 2016.
The extension follows the request of many regional politicians, citizens groups, and environmentalist organizations to reconsider the drastic expansion of anchorage grounds sought by industry. Riverkeeper appreciates the leadership of U.S. Senators Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand and others in seeking additional time for the public to voice concerns.
“The fact that the Coast Guard has given the public more time to weigh in on the controversial proposal, highlights the enormous level of concern and outrage expressed by the public,” says Riverkeeper President Paul Gallay. “It also shows that the Coast Guard is taking this matter seriously. We’re confident that a full and thoughtful evaluation will lead to the eventual denial of the shipping industry’s proposal.”
The plan would clearly have a range of far-reaching environmental impacts, including the increased potential for oil spills; the “scarring” of the river bottom from anchors and anchor chains, which could affect endangered sturgeon and other species; and noise and light pollution from certain barges. Riverkeeper is calling for a full Environmental Impact Statement.
Information is available at Riverkeeper.org/anchorages.
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