WALSH FACILITATES WILLIAM PARK IMPROVEMENTS WITH $100,000 FEDERAL GRANT
Onondaga County Soil & Water Conservation District Restoring William Beach in Cicero

(Syracuse, New York)- Congressman Jim Walsh today joined Cicero Town Supervisor Chet Dudzinski and Onondaga County Soil & Water Conservation District Executive Director Jeff Carmichael to unveil improvements underway at the Town of Cicero's Joseph F. William Memorial Park on Oneida Lake.  The park's shoreline was heavily damaged by ice last winter.  Fifteen feet of concrete walkway and a ramp that led to the park's seasonal floating dock was ripped away and several stone and wire "gabion" basket pilings used for erosion control were destroyed.

"William Park and Beach is a tremendous resource for residents of Cicero and northern Onondaga County," said Walsh.  "This investment will stabilize the park's shoreline and further combat future erosion, improving water quality to make William Park swimming even more safe and enjoyable."

At the request of Supervisor Dudzinski and the Town Board, Congressman Walsh worked to secure federal resources to assist in restoring the park's shoreline and increasing protection for subsequent winters.  The $142,000 federally funded project is being coordinated by the Onondaga County Soil and Water Conservation District, supported by a $100,000 federal grant, and $42,560 payment by the Town's insurance carrier. 

"We thank Congressman Walsh for his fast response and personal attention to this request for assistance," said Supervisor Dudzinski.  "William Park is a popular destination and the home of the town's swimming programs.  And it is important that we address these needed improvements during this construction season to avoid subsequent damage."

Work began on the park improvements in July.  Lan-Co Companies of North Syracuse is performing the work for OCSWCD.  Besides excavation and removal of debris, the contractor has constructed a 340 steel seawall, installed and repaired 100 feet of gabion baskets, and installed new sidewalks and grass.

"The William Park project fits closely into the mission of the Onondaga County Soil and Water Conservation District," said Carmichael.  "We look to improve water quality, stem shoreline erosion, and strengthen conservation measures throughout the region.  We are proud to have a supporter in Congressman Walsh and were delighted he called upon us to assist in this project."

William Park, located on Lakeshore Road in Cicero, contains four acres and 1100 feet of Oneida Lake shoreline.  The park has a guarded swim area and sand beach, volleyball court, playground, picnic pavilion, and restrooms.

Work on the restoration project should be fully completed by mid August.

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