Permits Filed For 450 East 158th Street In Melrose, The Bronx

 

Permits have been filed for an eight-story mixed-use building for supportive housing at 450 East 158th Street in Melrose, The Bronx. Located between 3rd Avenue and Elton Avenue, the lot is near the 3rd Avenue-149th Street subway station, serviced by the 2 and 5 trains. Guido Subotovsky of Azimuth Development Group is listed as the owner behind the applications.

The proposed 75-foot-tall development will yield 44,489 square feet, with 27,074 square feet designated for community facility space and 17,415 square feet for residential space. The building will have 84 sleeping rooms, with an average unit scope of 207 square feet. The concrete-based structure will also have a cellar with 16 bicycle parking spaces.

Aufgang Architects is listed as the architect of record.

Demolition permits were filed in September 2021 for the two-story building on the site. An estimated completion date has not been announced.

Governor Hochul Announces Reopenings of Major Western New York Highways in the Wake of Historic Snowstorm

 

New York State Thruway (I-90), I-290, I-990, State Routes 400 and 219 Fully Reopened; Niagara County Section of I-190 Fully Open as well as Erie County Section North of I-290

Work Continues on Reopening Remaining Erie County Sections of I-190 and State Routes 5, 33 and 198; All Remain Closed

Driving Ban Remains In Effect For The City of Buffalo

Federal Emergency Declaration Request Approved by President Biden, Will Provide Immediate Federal Assistance to Impacted Areas

 Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the full reopening of the New York State Thruway (I-90), I-290, I-190 (Niagara County section and Erie County section north of I-290), I-990, State Routes 400 and 219 this morning in the wake of one of the most consequential snowstorms in New York State history. Department of Transportation and Thruway maintenance forces, in coordination with first responders and local governments, have worked feverishly over the last few days to clear the roads of snow and abandoned vehicles to ensure that these highways could reopen as quickly as possible. Work remains to be done on the remaining Erie County sections of I-190 and State Routes 5, 33, and 198, with expectations of reopening by tomorrow if not sooner. All border crossings including the Peace Bridge, Rainbow Bridge and the Lewiston-Queenston Bridge have been reopened. Inbound traffic on the Peace Bridge will be directed to I-190 northbound and I-290 eastbound to access the New York State Thruway. Inbound traffic from the Rainbow Bridge and Lewiston-Queenston Bridge can take I-190 southbound and I-290 eastbound to access the Thruway.

"With today's reopening of major highways across Western New York, we are finally turning the corner on this once-in-a-generation storm," Governor Hochul said. "That doesn't mean we can let our guards down as it will take many more days for the region to dig out. But this is still good news and I urge motorists to drive carefully and cautiously, follow the rules of the road and be safe behind the wheel."

Yesterday, Governor Hochul submitted a request to President Biden for a Federal Emergency Declaration for Erie and Genesee Counties, as a result of the historic winter storm that began on Thursday, December 22, and continues to impact Western New York, the Finger Lakes and North Country regions, where the storm brought blizzard-like conditions, sustained wind gusts of more than 60 miles per hour, and well below freezing temperatures through the holiday weekend. Last night, that request was approved by President Biden. An Emergency Declaration will provide immediate federal assistance to the impacted counties to support the State's ongoing recovery and response operations. Prior to the arrival of the event on Thursday evening, Governor Hochul declared a State of Emergency for the entire state, which remains in place. Additionally, New York's emergency management agencies were in constant communication with the National Weather Service and local governments in the week leading up to the storm.

State Department of Transportation and Thruway forces remain on the ground, plowing roads across Western New York, as well as conducting snow blowing and load and haul operations. To date, the Department of Transportation has sent four waves and the Thruway Authority has sent two waves of manpower and equipment to Western New York and will send more as conditions warrant.

For all non-emergency service needs before, during or after a storm, call 211 or visit 211nys.org.

MAYOR ADAMS ANNOUNCES TWO KEY ADMINISTRATION APPOINTMENTS

 

Appoints Jasmine Ray as Director of Mayor’s Office of Sports, Wellness, and Recreation

 

Appoints Karen Ford as Executive Director of Mayor’s Office of Nonprofit Services

New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced the appointment of Jasmine Ray as director of the newly created Mayor’s Office of Sports, Wellness, and Recreation and Karen Ford as executive director of the Mayor’s Office of Nonprofit Services. Ray brings years of experience as a community leader, coach, and athlete dedicated to using sports to strengthen and build healthier communities across New York City. As the Mayor’s Office of Sports, Wellness, and Recreation director, Ray will oversee creation and implementation of sports and wellness initiatives to build a healthier and more active city for all New Yorkers.

 

Ford brings nearly 30 years of experience in social and non-profit services to city government. At the Mayor’s Office of Nonprofit Services, Ford will make the office’s efforts to engage and communicate critical information to nonprofits, develop and deliver a capacity-building program to support nonprofits to contract with the city more easily, and coordinate activities to advance the recommendations of the Joint Task Force to Get Nonprofits Paid on Time.

 

“Jasmine Ray and Karen Ford are two passionate public servants who have dedicated their careers to empowering and advocating for New Yorkers across the five boroughs,” said Mayor Adams. “These two new appointees will utilize these newly created offices to connect New Yorkers to an active lifestyle, build healthier communities, and create a smoother process for our nonprofit partners. Jasmine and Karen will bring not only a deep passion to their roles but also a wealth of experience to our team, and I’m proud to have them join our administration.”

 

“New Yorkers are lucky that two highly qualified individuals like Jasmine Ray and Karen Ford are joining the ranks of city government, ready to roll up their sleeves,” said Chief of Staff Frank Carone. “By harnessing the power of sports and recreation, we can build stronger, healthier, and more equitable communities. Jasmine has brought the transformative power of sports to countless New Yorkers, and I know she will bring that same expertise to her role leading the newly created Mayor’s Office of Sports, Wellness, and Recreation. And Karen will bring her expertise from serving as COO at HELP USA to develop and deliver a capacity-building office to support our city’s nonprofit partners. Her appointment will make it easier to support New Yorkers by helping us cut red tape in the contract process with the city and help us ‘Get Stuff Done’ more quickly.”

 

“The new Mayor’s Office of Nonprofit Services is a crucial step towards the Adams administration’s long-term vision for supporting nonprofits through cross-sector collaboration, increased coordination across city agencies, and regular communication with the sector,” said Deputy Mayor for Strategic Initiatives Sheena Wright. “Karen Ford’s rich nonprofit and government experience will be an incredible asset as she addresses the needs of our nonprofit partners. We are excited to have her on board and know that she is the right person to drive forward this crucial work to support nonprofits and the communities they serve.”

 

“Nonprofits are so often our trusted partners across the city, delivering services within the communities they know best,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “With Karen’s appointment, our administration adds an experienced leader to elevate the voices of nonprofit providers. Importantly, Karen brings a person-centric approach to her work and her vision for how we can serve our nonprofits better and thereby serve every New Yorker that encounters those nonprofits in a richer, more efficient, and more effective way. I am grateful to Karen for taking on this role.”

 

“Well-being begins with a healthy lifestyle, and sports and physical activity play a key role in building healthy communities,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “Jasmine’s appointment sends a clear message to New Yorkers: Everyone in this city deserves access to life-changing opportunities to improve their personal well-being through sports and recreation. I know Jasmine will deliver that to New Yorkers across the five boroughs, and I am grateful for her service on behalf of our city.”

 

“As a minority, woman business owner, and as a person who grew up in an underserved community, I know, firsthand, that sports are not only a vehicle to promote health and wellness, but also a tool that can be used for crime prevention, and I share Mayor Adams’ vision for a safer, healthier, and more equitable New York City,” said Mayor’s Office of Sports, Wellness and Recreation Director Ray. “My journey into public service was a personal calling triggered by the tragic death of my youngest brother, Jonathan Ray. The following year, I created a sports organization and worked tirelessly to provide alternatives for at-risk youth — that was 13 years ago. That is the passion, conviction, and dedication that I am bringing to this new office. For me, this is not a job; it is a mission-driven life commitment, and I look forward to setting a standard of excellence as the first director for the Mayor’s Office of Sports, Wellness and Recreation.”

 

“It is an honor to be appointed the city’s first executive director of the Mayor’s Office of Nonprofit Services,” said Mayor’s Office of Nonprofit Services Executive Director Karen Ford. “Mayor Adams’ commitment to thriving communities centers the value and importance of strong nonprofit partnerships. I am excited to work alongside Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright and Deputy Mayor Anne Williams-Isom to carry out this commitment by amplifying and addressing the needs of nonprofit organizations. The nonprofit sector is a vital source in supporting communities, and we will be intentional in our efforts to ensure this administration is supporting their efforts.”

 

“Jasmine is a dedicated, committed New Yorker who leveraged her passion for wallball to inspire and empower many young people,” said New York City Department of Parks and Recreation (NYC Parks) First Deputy Commissioner Iris Rodriguez Rosa. “Over the years, I witnessed, firsthand, Jasmine’s persistence and perseverance as she worked with hundreds of city youth, helping them explore their abilities on our parks’ courts. I applaud her appointment as director of the Mayor’s Office of Sports, Wellness, and Recreation, and I know the administration and our city will benefit from her years of successful grassroots sports advocacy.”

 

“We are delighted to see Karen Ford appointed as executive director the Mayor’s Office of Nonprofit Services. Karen’s extensive experience in the public and nonprofit sectors, including her time with the Department of Homeless Services, make her uniquely qualified for this critical role,” said New York City Department of Social Services Commissioner Gary P. Jenkins. “Our provider partners are essential to our efforts to serve New York’s most vulnerable populations, and we look forward to working closely with Executive Director Ford to more efficiently and effectively support these partners through enhanced partnership, coordination, and contracting.”

 

Governor Hochul Submits Request for Federal Emergency Declaration as Historic Winter Storm Continues To Impact Western New York

 

Presidential Emergency Declaration for Erie and Genesee Counties Would Provide Direct Federal Assistance for Ongoing Storm Response, Including Search and Rescue Efforts in Buffalo

Statewide State of Emergency Remains in Effect as Winter Storm Brought Paralyzing Conditions in Western New York, Claiming Lives, Leaving Hundreds of Motorists Stranded and More than 100,000 Without Power During Extreme Cold Temperatures over the Holiday Weekend

New Yorkers Urged To Continue Avoiding Unnecessary Travel in Areas Impacted by the Storm and Follow Local Travel Advisories Due to Dangerous Conditions

Travel Ban Remains in Effect for Most of Erie County, Including Entire City of Buffalo; Multiple State Highway Closures in Place in Western New York; NYS Thruway (I-90) between Exit 45 (Rochester) and Pennsylvania Border Still Closed to All Traffic

  Governor Kathy Hochul today submitted a request to President Biden for a Federal Emergency Declaration, as a result of the historic winter storm that began on Thursday, December 22, and continues to impact Western New York and the North Country regions, where the storm brought blizzard-like conditions, sustained wind gusts of more than 60 miles per hour, and well below freezing temperatures through the holiday weekend. The State's storm response continues this week as a multitude of the State's emergency response agencies have deployed equipment and personnel to coordinate with and support local governments in impacted regions. Governor Hochul deployed an additional 220 National Guard soldiers to the Western New York region, bringing the total of deployments to approximately 430. With the response expected to continue throughout the week, Governor Hochul and local officials are continuing to urge New Yorkers to avoid travel in the impacted areas of Erie County, as well as in areas in the North Country experiencing similar conditions near Watertown. Once approved, the Federal Emergency Declaration will provide immediate federal assistance to support ongoing response and rescue operations.

"I want to thank everyone at the state and local public safety agencies who stepped up and worked throughout the holiday weekend," Governor Hochul said. "I have spoken to President Biden who has agreed to swiftly approve our Federal Emergency Declaration, which will be crucial to assist our recovery efforts from this historic storm, and I thank our congressional delegation for helping secure this assistance. While we continue to do everything we can to help Western New York recover and await federal assistance, I want everyone in impacted areas to continue to stay off the roads and check in on loved ones and neighbors."

Federal Emergency Declaration

The Governor submitted a request to President Biden for a Federal Emergency Declaration for Erie and Genesee Counties. Once approved, the Emergency Declaration will provide immediate federal assistance to impacted counties to support ongoing response and recovery operations.

Prior to the arrival of the event on Thursday evening, Governor Hochul declared a State of Emergency for the entire state, which remains in place. Additionally, New York's emergency management agencies were in constant communication with the National Weather Service and local governments in the week leading up to the storm.

The New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (including the Office of Emergency Management and Office of Fire Prevention and Control), Department of Transportation, Thruway Authority, State Police, State Parks and DEC all pre-deployed resources to the Western New York, Finger Lakes and North Country regions ahead of the storm, and additional resources were surged to heavily impacted areas.

Numerous State highways in the Western New York region remain closed to all traffic, as of Monday afternoon. The New York State Thruway (I-90) remains closed to all traffic between exit 46 in Rochester to the Pennsylvania line.

Heavy snow is expected to continue to impact areas off Lake Ontario and Lake Erie this week. Another one to two feet of snow is expected east of Lake Ontario through Tuesday, with snowfall rates of three inches per hour on Monday. The Buffalo area is expected to receive up to an additional foot of snow over the next few days, before temperatures rise later this week and through the weekend. The Department of Transportation has surged an additional 100 staff to the Western New York, Finger Lakes and North Country Regions to assist with snow and ice removal operations.

Lake Effect Snow Warnings and Winter Storm Warnings are currently in effect for several counties in the North Country region. For a complete listing of weather watches and warnings in your area, visit your area's National Weather Service website.

New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray said, "We have and continue to work with our state and local partners to help New Yorkers recover from this devastating winter storm. I want to thank everyone involved in the response to date, and for their continued efforts as we remain active in search and rescue missions. Please adhere to local travel advisories that are still in place and know that Governor Hochul and I are working with our partners at all levels of government to ensure we get the assistance necessary to keep communities in Western New York safe."

Safety Tips for Impacted Communities

Winter Travel Safety

The leading cause of death and injuries during winter storms is transportation accidents:

• When winter storms strike, do not drive unless necessary.
• Make sure that your vehicle is clear of ice and snow; good vision is key to good driving.
• Always match your speed to the road and weather conditions. Plan your stops and keep more distance between cars.
• Be extra alert and remember that snowdrifts can hide smaller children.
• Make sure your car is stocked with survival gear like blankets, a shovel, flashlight and extra batteries, extra warm clothing, set of tire chains, battery booster cables, quick energy foods and brightly colored cloth to use as a distress flag.
• If you have a cell phone or other communications device such as a two-way radio available for your use, keep the battery charged and keep it with you whenever traveling.

Extreme Temps

• Be aware of wind chill - wind in combination with the actual temperature - that can cause an increase of heat loss to the human body.
• Dress appropriately and avoid staying in the cold too long.
• Wear a hat and gloves when appropriate with layers of clothing. Avoid unnecessary exposure of any part of the body to the cold.
• Drink plenty of warm fluids or warm water but avoid caffeine and alcohol. Stay active to maintain body heat.
• Take frequent breaks from the cold.
• If signals of hypothermia or frostbite appear, get out of the cold, slowly warm the individual and seek medical assistance:
• Frostbite: Symptoms include loss of feeling, a white or pale appearance in fingers, toes, ears, and nose.
• Hypothermia: Symptoms include uncontrollable shivering, slow speech, memory lapses, frequent stumbling, and drowsiness.

Heavy Exertion

• Stay warm, dress warm and SLOW DOWN when working outdoors.
• Take frequent rests to avoid over-exertion
• If you feel chest pain, shortness of breath, or pain in your jaw radiating down your arm — STOP and seek help immediately.

Power Outages

• Call your utility provider to notify them of the outage.
• Avoid all downed power lines and report them to your utility provider for repair; assume all downed lines have live electricity.
• Use only flashlights for emergency lighting - candles pose the risk of fire.
• Keep your refrigerator and freezer doors shut to keep food from spoiling. When in doubt, throw it out!
• Do not use a charcoal grill or generator indoors and do not use a gas stove for heat-they could give off harmful levels of carbon monoxide.
• Turn off major appliances to prevent damage from a possible surge when the power comes back on-keep one light turned on so you know when power returns.

Home Heating

Heating equipment is one of the leading causes of home fire deaths. Keep loved ones safe by following these important steps:

• Keep all combustibles at least three feet away from heating equipment.
• Always plug appliances including space heaters directly into a receptacle. Never plug appliances into a power strip or extension cord.
• Make sure there is a working smoke alarm in each bedroom, outside sleeping areas and on every level of your home.

For all non-emergency service needs before, during or after a storm, call 211 or visit 211nys.org.

For more safety tips, visit the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Safety Tips web page at www.dhses.ny.gov/safety.

CONSUMER ALERT: Attorney General James Cautions Against Price Gouging of Children’s Medication

 

“Tripledemic” Causing Shortages of Children's Painkillers and Fever Reducers 

AG James Encourages Consumers to Report Excessive Price Increases  

New York Attorney General Letitia James today cautioned consumers and businesses of price gouging of children’s painkillers and fever reducers as demand increases for those medications due to this year’s “tripledemic” of COVID-19, RSV, and the flu. The Office of the Attorney General (OAG) is aware of reports of children’s medication being sold online and in stores at prices two or three times their retail value. Attorney General James urges New Yorkers to be on alert for potential price gouging of children’s painkillers and fever reducers, including Tylenol, Motrin, and acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and aspirin sold under other brand names, and to report any dramatic price increases to her office. 

“This year’s tripledemic is keeping many kids and babies sick at home, and families trying to care for them are confronting the national shortage of children’s Tylenol and other medication,” said Attorney General James. “The last thing any family needs when a child spikes a fever or is in pain is to be price gouged on the medication they need. I am putting profiteers seeking to take advantage of this shortage on notice. If New Yorkers see big price increases for children’s medication, I encourage them to report it to my office immediately.” 

New York law prohibits merchants from taking unfair advantage of consumers by selling goods or services that are vital to their health, safety, or welfare for an unconscionably excessive price. Due to the nationwide shortage, OAG advises consumers to buy only as much children’s medication as they need and not to unnecessarily stock up as such panic buying may intensify the shortage and could encourage sellers to engage in illegal price gouging. The OAG also reminds consumers that it is not price gouging for retailers to limit the amount of medication they sell to individual consumers. 

When reporting price gouging to OAG, consumers should: 

•   Report the specific increased prices, the dates, and places that they saw the increased prices, and the types of medication being sold; and, 
•   Provide copies of their sales receipts and photos of the advertised prices, if available. 

New Yorkers should report potential concerns about price gouging to OAG by filing a complaint online or calling 1-800-771-7755. 

NYC PUBLIC ADVOCATE'S STATEMENT IN CELEBRATION OF KWANZAA

 

"I want to send love and light to all who begin celebrating Kwanzaa today. Throughout this celebration, we honor and uplift African American culture and heritage. The seven principles of unity, self determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith that we mark each day of Kwanzaa are values to embrace and emulate throughout the year.

"During Kwanzaa, we reflect on the example and learn from the model of our ancestors, carrying their legacy and strengthened by their lessons. Bolstered by the seven principles, guided by those who have come before, and strengthened by the many blessings in our lives, in our lives, we can overcome challenges and confront obstacles in the next year as we did in the last. 

"In the spirit of Umoja, let us come together with purpose and toward progress. United in spirit, we look ahead with resolve, and move forward with the hope of triumph. Habari Gani."

Governor Hochul Provides Update on State's Response to Historic Winter Storm Impacting Multiple Regions Across the State

Statewide State of Emergency Remains in Effect as Historic Winter Storm Continues to Heavily Impact Western New York and the North Country

Additional 200 National Guard Soldiers Deploying to Western New York on Monday to Assist New York's Emergency Response

State Agencies Surged Personnel and Equipment to Western New York and Continue to Work on the Ground with Local Public Safety Partners, Including Forming Strike Teams with State Police, DHSES, DEC, DOT and National Guard to Support Power Restoration Efforts in City of Buffalo

NYS Thruway (I-90) Remains Closed to All Traffic between Exit 46 (Rochester, I-390) and the Pennsylvania Border; Countywide Travel Bans in Place for Areas in Western New York and Jefferson County Most Impacted by Storm

Numerous State Highways and Interstates in Erie County Remain Closed Due to Conditions; Several Counties in Western New York, Finger Lakes Region and the North Country Under States of Emergency with Local Travel Bans

Approximately 25,000 Power Outages Remain Across the State, Majority of Outages in Erie County 

 Governor Kathy Hochul provided an update to the ongoing response to the historic winter storm which brought blizzard conditions over the course of the weekend to many parts of Western New York, the Finger Lakes and the North Country regions. On Thursday, ahead of the event, Governor Hochul declared a statewide State of Emergency and deployed the New York National Guard on Friday evening to assist with storm response and search and rescue missions. The Governor surged additional assets and personnel from numerous state agencies involved in the emergency response on Christmas Eve, and overnight Saturday into Sunday, the State Police, Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, Department of Transportation, Department of Environmental Conservation and the National Guard teamed up with local public safety officials and utility crews to form strike teams focused on life and safety checks in the City of Buffalo. On Christmas, those teams spent the day supporting power restoration efforts with heavy snow removal equipment.

As snow will continue to persist in Western New York and the North Country through Monday with gusts of 30 to 40 miles per hour, Governor Hochul urged New Yorkers to continue adhering to local travel bans and limiting time outdoors.

"We continue to work around the clock with local leaders to respond to this historic storm and are in contact with the White House to secure critical federal assistance to help our communities recover," Governor Hochul said. "I encourage everyone to continue to look after one another, stay off the roads and take precautions to stay safe in your home."

The North County, Finger Lakes and Central New York regions all experienced peak wind gusts of more than 60 miles per hour during the event. In Western New York, peak wind gusts reached 79 miles per hour near the Buffalo Skyway. Areas off Lake Erie in Western New York may see another one and a half feet of snow and areas off Lake Ontario in the North Country may see another 3 feet of snow by Tuesday afternoon.

Lake Effect Snow Warnings and Winter Storm Warnings remain in effect for counties across the Western New York and North Country regions. For a complete list of weather watches, warnings, and advisories across New York, visit the National Weather Service website.

New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray said, "Stay home and adhere to local travel bans that are in place. This is for your own safety, and to facilitate operations of utility crews, plow trucks and emergency responders. Our State agency teams have been working hand in glove with each other and our local partners to help New Yorkers get through this historic storm."

Agency Operations

Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services

The State's Emergency Operations Center and the Fire Operations Center are fully staffed and actively working to fulfill requests for assistance from local governments.

The Office of Emergency Management and The Office of Fire Prevention and Control have deployed personnel and equipment (UTVs) to perform life and safety checks on people in Western New York, along with resources to support warming shelters, including more than 4,600 MREs for shelters in Erie County and the Western New York region, and more than 1,700 MREs, 4,800 cans of water, 1,100 blankets and pillows for shelters in Genesee County.

DHSES is prepared to respond to additional requests for assistance from local governments across the state and deploy assets from the State's stockpiles.

Division of Military and Naval Affairs

The New York State Division of Military and Naval Affairs is providing an additional 200 soldiers from the New York National Guard to Western New York to assist New York's emergency response.

Department of Public Service

New York's utilities have approximately 8,000 workers available statewide to engage in damage assessment, wire guarding, response, repair, and restoration efforts.

Despite the hazardous conditions, National Grid has been able to safely restore more than 143,000 customers, affected by the winter storm event. More than 175,000 have been affected by this severe weather event.

National Grid has 3,092 Line, Tree and Service personnel engaged in the repair and restoration effort system wide.

NYSEG/RG&E has been able to restore more than 213,000 electric customers affected by the statewide winter weather event. Over 217,000 have been affected by this event.

NYSEG/RG&E have 2,261 Line, Tree and Service personnel engaged in repair and restoration efforts across their system.

Department of Transportation

The State Department of Transportation is responding with 3,450 supervisors and operators available statewide.

The Department has further supported snow and ice removal operations in Western New York, the North Country and the Finger Lakes with outside resources throughout the storm in two separate waves.

During the first wave of deployments, to support response activities in critical areas, a total of 71 staff, including 65 plow truck operators, 4 supervisors, 1 assistant manager, 1 ICS support specialist, 13 plow trucks, 2 snow blowers, and 1 grader were distributed as follows:

Western NY:

• Received 3 plow trucks from Central NY
• Received 2 plow trucks, 2 snow blowers, and 1 grader from Finger Lakes
• Received 4 operators and 2 plow trucks from Southern Tier
• Received 26 operators, 2 supervisors, and 1 assistant manager from Mid-Hudson
• Received 10 operators, 1 supervisor, and 3 plow trucks from Southern Tier
• Received 19 operators and 1 supervisor from Long Island
• Received 1 ICS specialist from Capital District

North Country:

• Received 2 operators and 1 plow truck from Capital District
• Received 2 operators and 1 plow truck from Mohawk Valley
• Received 2 operators and 1 plow truck from Central NY

During the second wave of deployments, a total of 18 staff, including 12 plow truck operators and 6 mechanics, 3 snow blowers, 4 loaders, 1 bulldozer and 1 grader have been deployed and are distributed as follows:

Finger Lakes:

• Received 2 operators and 1 snow blower from Capital District
• Received 2 operators and 1 loader from Mohawk Valley
• Received 4 operators, 1 snow blower and 1 loader from Central NY
• Received 4 operators and 2 loaders from Southern Tier

Western NY:

• Received 1 dozer (from Capital District
• Received 1 mechanic and 1 snow blower from Southern Tier
• Received 2 mechanics from Mid-Hudson)
• Received 1 mechanic and 1 grader (from Southern Tier)
• Received 2 mechanics from Long Island

Emergency contractor assets: 4 loaders for rescue and recovery mission in Western New York

All available response equipment is deployed. Fleet mechanics in affected areas are staffing all main residency locations 24/7to perform repairs and keep trucks on the road.

Statewide equipment numbers are as follows:

• 1583 large plow trucks
• 338 large loaders
• 157 medium duty trucks with plow
• 37 large snow blowers
• 52 tow plows
• 20 graders
• 29 tracked excavators
• 44 wheeled excavators
• 49 loader grapple attachments
• 32 traffic signal trucks
• 13 tree crew bucket trucks

Thruway Authority

Thruway Authority maintenance facilities are staffed around the clock and responding to the storm with 678 operators and supervisors statewide. Thruway has shifted and deployed additional staff and equipment from its New York and Albany Divisions to support snow and ice operations in Western New York. Deployed resources include large plow trucks and operators. Additional resources are on standby and ready to shift as needed.

ALL VEHICLES are banned on the New York State Thruway (I-90) from exit 46 (Rochester I-390) to the Pennsylvania border, and on the Niagara Thruway (I-190) from I-90 to exit 22 (Route 62) until further notice.

Thruway statewide equipment numbers and resources include:

• 364 large and medium duty plow trucks
• 10 tow plows
• 66 loaders
• More than 123,000 tons of salt on hand

Variable Message Signs and social media are utilized to alert motorists of winter weather conditions on the Thruway. Follow the Thruway Authority on Twitter: @NYSThruway& @ThruwayTraffic and on Facebook: NYS Thruway Authority.

The Thruway Authority encourages motorists to download its mobile app which is available for free on iPhone and Android devices. The app provides motorists direct access to real-time traffic information, live traffic cameras, and navigation assistance while on the go. Motorists can also sign up for TRANSalert e-mails which provide the latest traffic conditions along the Thruway.

New York State Police

The State Police has deployed additional personnel and assets throughout Western New York and Jefferson County to assist with storm-related issues. State Police is operating two strike teams in the city of Buffalo in partnership with Environmental Conservation Police, Forest Rangers, State Fire and the NYS Department of Transportation to assist National Grid with access to their substations and equipment off State Route 33 as they work to restore electricity. Troopers have responded to more than 750 crashes and nearly 1,300 disabled vehicles since the start of the storm.

Safety Tips

Winter Travel Safety

The leading cause of death and injuries during winter storms is transportation accidents. Before getting behind the wheel, review these safety tips:

• When winter storms strike, do not drive unless necessary.
• Make sure that your vehicle is clear of ice and snow; good vision is key to good driving.
• Always match your speed to the road and weather conditions. Plan your stops and keep more distance between cars.
• Be extra alert and remember that snowdrifts can hide smaller children.
• Make sure your car is stocked with survival gear like blankets, a shovel, flashlight and extra batteries, extra warm clothing, set of tire chains, battery booster cables, quick energy foods and brightly colored cloth to use as a distress flag.
• If you have a cell phone or other communications device such as a two-way radio available for your use, keep the battery charged and keep it with you whenever traveling.

Extreme Temps

• Be aware of wind chill - wind in combination with the actual temperature - that can cause an increase of heat loss to the human body.
• Dress appropriately and avoid staying in the cold too long.
• Wear a hat and gloves when appropriate with layers of clothing. Avoid unnecessary exposure of any part of the body to the cold.
• Drink plenty of warm fluids or warm water but avoid caffeine and alcohol. Stay active to maintain body heat.
• Take frequent breaks from the cold.
• If signals of hypothermia or frostbite appear, get out of the cold, slowly warm the individual and seek medical assistance:
• Frostbite: Symptoms include loss of feeling, a white or pale appearance in fingers, toes, ears, and nose.
• Hypothermia: Symptoms include uncontrollable shivering, slow speech, memory lapses, frequent stumbling, and drowsiness.

Heavy Exertion

Heavy exertion, such as shoveling snow, clearing debris or pushing a car, increase the risk of a heart attack. Follow these tips to stay safe after the storm:

• Stay warm, dress warm and SLOW DOWN when working outdoors.
• Take frequent rests to avoid over-exertion
• If you feel chest pain, shortness of breath, or pain in your jaw radiating down your arm — STOP and seek help immediately.

Power Outages

Winter storms can cause power outages. Review these safety tips before the lights go out so you know what to do in an emergency:

• Call your utility provider to notify them of the outage.
• Avoid all downed power lines and report them to your utility provider for repair; assume all downed lines have live electricity.
• Use only flashlights for emergency lighting - candles pose the risk of fire.
• Keep your refrigerator and freezer doors shut to keep food from spoiling. When in doubt, throw it out!
• Do not use a charcoal grill or generator indoors and do not use a gas stove for heat-they could give off harmful levels of carbon monoxide.
• Turn off major appliances to prevent damage from a possible surge when the power comes back on-keep one light turned on so you know when power returns.

Home Heating

Heating equipment is one of the leading causes of home fire deaths. Keep loved ones safe by following these important steps:

• Keep all combustibles at least three feet away from heating equipment.
• Always plug appliances including space heaters directly into a receptacle. Never plug appliances into a power strip or extension cord.
• Make sure there is a working smoke alarm in each bedroom, outside sleeping areas and on every level of your home.

For all non-emergency service needs before, during or after a storm, call 211 or visit 211nys.org.

For more safety tips, visit the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Safety Tips web page at www.dhses.ny.gov/safety.

DEC ANNOUNCES 2023 CATSKILLS FIRE TOWER CHALLENGE

 

Challenge Encourages Experienced Hikers to Visit Region's Six Fire Towers

Highlights Opportunities For Recreation In the Catskill Park

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos today announced the 2023 Catskills Fire Tower Challenge to highlight the world-class tourism destinations and recreational opportunities in the Mid-Hudson region.

"The annual Fire Tower Challenge is a great way to keep the history and traditions of our Catskills fire towers alive for future generations to appreciate and enjoy,” said Commissioner Seggos. “The Fire Tower Challenge provides opportunities for New Yorkers and visitors to reach the unique viewing experience of the spectacular Catskill Mountains while making everlasting memories with family and friends. I encourage anyone that has participated in years past, or those looking to try the tower hikes for the first time and take the 2023 Challenge.”

For nearly a century, observers watched the forests of New York State — including the Catskill and Adirondack forest preserve — from more than 100 fire towers perched atop the highest peaks, searching for the dangerous, telltale signs of forest fires.

The Catskills Fire Tower Challenge encourages experienced hikers to visit the region’s remaining fire towers located on Balsam Lake Mountain (Hardenburgh), Hunter Mountain (Hunter), Overlook Mountain (Woodstock), Red Hill Mountain (Denning), and Tremper Mountain (Shandaken), along with the Upper Esopus Fire Tower at the Catskills Visitor Center. The Upper Esopus Fire Tower allows visitors who may not otherwise be able to undertake the challenging hike of several miles to experience a fire tower on the high peaks in the Catskills.

Stewardship of the fire towers is a partnership with the Catskill Center for Conservation and Development. The Catskill Center, through the Catskill Fire Tower Project, manages six fire towers in the Catskill Park for public access and interpretation under a Volunteer Stewardship Agreement with DEC. Dedicated volunteers help maintain and staff each of the fire towers on weekends and holidays throughout the summer and fall seasons. For more information about the Catskills and to experience the newest and easiest to reach fire tower in the region, the Upper Esopus Fire Tower, consider a visit to the Catskills Visitor Center on Route 28 in the heart of the Catskill Park. 

To participate in the challenge, hikers must hike to all six DEC-owned fire towers in the Catskills between Jan. 1, and Dec. 31, 2023. Once completed, participants submit a log of their completed hikes along with a favorite photo or selfie via a web form or to the designated email inbox: CatskillsChallenge@dec.ny.gov. Entries must be postmarked by Jan. 7, 2024.

All participants who complete the challenge will receive a letter and a commemorative Catskills Fire Tower Challenge patch designed with the 2023 completion year. The first 1,000 finishers will also receive a one-year subscription to DEC’s Conservationist magazine. Upon completion, finishers will also be able to download a customizable certificate and will be eligible to win prizes after the challenge period is closed. To promote responsible recreation, DEC will offer a bonus prize entry to finishers who also submit a photo of themselves practicing Leave No Trace™ while participating in the Catskills Fire Tower Challenge (e.g., picking up litter, carrying out, planning and preparing for their hikes, staying on trail).

New for 2023, finishers who completed the challenge multiple times will receive an additional commemorative Catskills Fire Tower Challenge prize.

Empire State Development Vice President and Executive Director of Tourism Ross D. Levi said, “New York State is unsurpassed when it comes to outdoor recreation destinations. The Fire Tower Challenge represents another chance to invite visitors from around the world and residents alike to explore all that New York has to offer when it comes to enjoying the great outdoors. I LOVE NY looks forward to promoting the Fire Tower Challenge and all the amazing opportunities to hike the Empire State.”

Earlier this week, Governor Hochul encouraged New Yorkers to spend time in the outdoors this holiday season and celebrate the New Year at state parks, historic sites, wildlife areas, canal trails, and public lands across the Empire State on Jan. 1, 2023 as part of New York’s First Day Hikes program, which offers varied hike options for people across the state to enjoy. There is an opportunity for a First Day Hike in the Catskill region at Upper Esopus Fire Tower at the Catskills Visitor Center. The 0.5-mile loop provides an accessible hike for everyone. For those interested, the Upper Esopus Fire Tower will be open and available to climb.

The 2022 challenge, which continues through the end of the year, has drawn more than 800 finishers to-date. Entries have been received from every region of New York, 12 other states, Canada, and the United Kingdom.

With DEC giving participants a full year to complete the challenge, hikers can take their time. Hikers are reminded to practice Leave No Trace™ principles and to Love Our NY Lands by recreating safely, sustainably, and hiking in suitable conditions based on weather and experience level.

For more information about the fire towers and challenge rules, visit: https://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/76620.html.

Under the Adventure NY initiative, DEC is making strategic investments to expand access to healthy, active, outdoor recreation; connect more New Yorkers and visitors to nature and the outdoors; protect natural resources; and boost local economies. Read more about the Adventure NY initiative on DEC's website: https://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/64852.html.