Governor Cuomo Reminds New Yorkers to Prepare for Strong Winds and Heavy Rains as Tropical Storm Isaias Moves Up the East Coast

State Agency Emergency Response Assets Strategically Deployed to Support Localities 

Storm Will Impact New York During Overnight Hours and Continue into Tuesday 

Governor Urging New Yorkers to Plan for Possibility of Strong Winds, Heavy Rains and Flash Flooding

Tandem Trailers and Empty Tractor Trailers Banned from MTA Bridges from Noon to Midnight on Tuesday

  Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today reminded New Yorkers to be prepared for heavy rains and strong winds as Tropical Storm Isaias begins to move up the east coast. The storm is currently forecast to reach the Northeast during the overnight hours and deliver hurricane-like conditions throughout the day on Tuesday. At the direction of the Governor, State agencies have been closely monitoring the storm's progress since last week and have strategically pre-deployed resources to the lower Mid-Hudson, New York City and Long Island Regions, which are expected to experience the greatest impacts. Governor Cuomo is also urging New Yorkers to ensure their households are prepared for the storm and to continue monitoring local weather forecasts for the most up-to-date information.

"The most recent models show that New Yorkers need to be prepared for this weather system to hit the state in the next 24 hours, bringing with it strong winds and heavy rains that may lead to local flooding," Governor Cuomo said. "I have directed our State agencies to deploy emergency assets to problematic areas to assist our local partners, and I am asking New Yorkers to be diligent and stay ready in case the storm intensifies on Tuesday." 

Currently, Isaias has been downgraded to a Tropical Storm but it is expected to regain hurricane strength before it reaches the Carolinas late on Monday. As the storm moves north, tropical storm conditions are expected to spread as far north as southern New England through Tuesday afternoon. As a result, the National Weather Service has issued a Tropical Storm Warning for the lower Mid-Hudson, New York City and Long Island Regions. Forecasts are predicting that New Yorkers in these regions could experience wind speeds between 40 and 50 mph, with gusts reaching nearly 70 mph at the peak of the storm. The storm is also expected to bring between two to four inches of rain to New York, with the possibility of up to six inches in areas experiencing the heaviest impact, like the southern Mid-Hudson Region. Localized storm surges of up to two feet are also a possibility along the coastline.

The National Weather Service has also issued a number of flash flood watches and other weather statements for the surrounding areas. New Yorkers can view the complete listing of these notices, as well as access the latest forecasts, by visiting the National Weather Service website here.

Agency Preparations

Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services

The New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services' Emergency Operations Center remains activated due to the COVID-19 pandemic and will monitor weather conditions, coordinate state response operations and stay in contact with localities throughout the duration of the event. State Stockpiles are also prepared to deploy assets to localities to support any storm-related needs. This includes pumps, chainsaws, sandbags and bottled water. Additionally, the Division's Office of Fire Prevention and Control has pre-deployed its Swift Water Urban Search and Rescue teams to areas within the storm track to assist local first responders in the event support is needed. Teams are equipped with boats and high-axle vehicles.

Department of Transportation

The State Department of Transportation is prepared to respond with 3,517 supervisors and operators available statewide. All available rain/flood/wind response equipment is ready to deploy.  Statewide equipment numbers are as follows:

• 1433 large dump trucks.
• 48 loaders w/grapple
• 313 loaders
• 16 vacuum trucks w/sewer jet
• 28 tracked excavators
• 47 wheeled excavators
• 61 tractor trailers w/ lowboy trailer
• 14 tree crew bucket trucks
• 35 traffic signal trucks
• 6 water pumps
• 77 chippers

All affected residency locations will be staffed for 24/7 operation throughout the duration of priority response operations.  Mechanic support will be available 24/7 to keep response equipment operational.

Flood/debris quick-response crews will be pre-staged in the Mid-Hudson and Long Island Regions overnight Tuesday to perform immediate response to any needs that arise.  Additional crews will be called-in as needed to provide additional support.

Thruway Authority

The Thruway Authority has 651 operators and supervisors prepared to respond to any wind or flood related issues across the state with small to medium sized excavators, plow/dump trucks, large loaders, portable VMS boards, portable light towers, smaller generators, smaller pumps and equipment hauling trailers, as well as signage and other traffic control devices available for any detours or closures. Variable Message Signs, Highway Advisory Radio and social media are utilized to alert motorists of weather conditions on the Thruway.

Statewide equipment numbers are as follows: 

• 207 Large Dump Trucks
• 123 Small Dump Trucks
• 60 Loaders
• 26 Trailers
• 7 Vac Trucks
• 10 Tracked Excavators
• 7 Wheeled Excavators
• 11 Brush Chippers
• 99 Chainsaws
• 21 Aerial Trucks
• 22 Skid Steers
• 87 Portable Generators
• 69 Portable Light Unit

The Thruway Authority encourages motorists to download its mobile app which is available to download for free on iPhone and Android devices. The app provides motorists direct access to real-time traffic 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 by following this link: www.thruway.ny.gov/tas/index.shtml. For real-time updates, motorists can follow @ThruwayTraffic on Twitter or by visiting www.thruway.ny.gov to see an interactive map showing traffic conditions for the Thruway and other New York State roadways.

Metropolitan Transportation Authority

The MTA is taking all necessary precautions to protect its transportation network and deliver safe service. 

Across New York City Transit, the Long Island Rail Road, Metro-North Railroad and MTA Bridges and Tunnels, crews have assembled 1 million gallons of diesel fuel, 303,000 sandbags, 77,800 gallons of gasoline, 7,348 sheets of plywood, 884 chain saws, 671 portable generators, 422 barriers made of concrete or plastic, 264 pumps, 218 torches, 198 water suction and discharge hoses, 134 fans, 79 emergency response vehicles, 56 wrecker/tow trucks, 37 excavators, 33 variable message signs, 18 weather data collection stations and three debris-clearing trains.

The MTA will also institute a ban on tandem trailers and empty tractor trailers on its bridges from noon to midnight on Tuesday.

Metro-North will go to a weekend schedule Tuesday, providing provide hourly service all day Tuesday, with service every two hours between Southeast and Wassaic on the Harlem Line and every three hours on the Danbury branch in Connecticut.

Customers should take precautions to travel safely during and after heavy rain and winds. This includes allowing for extra travel time, taking extra caution when walking on platforms and stairs, watching for slippery conditions and being mindful for overhead foliage or wires. 

All MTA agencies are working closely together, coordinating with local partners to develop precautionary change plans should service be impacted. 

Port Authority of New York and New Jersey

The Port Authority urges motorists to use caution during the storm. Speed restrictions at the George Washington and Staten Island bridges may be in effect, as well as along roadways to and from the crossings.

Travelers through the Port Authority's airports, terminals and bus station are encouraged to reach out to carriers and airlines directly for the latest information on delays, cancelations or rebookings. For the latest information about Port Authority facilities, please check social media, sign up for PA alerts or download one of the PA mobile apps.  

Department of Environmental Conservation

DEC Environmental Conservation Police Officers, Forest Rangers, Emergency Management staff, and regional staff are on alert and monitoring the developing situation and actively patrolling areas and infrastructure likely to be impacted by severe weather. All available assets, including swift water rescue teams and sawyers, are positioned to assist with any emergency response. 

Office of Parks, Recreation and Historical Preservation

State Parks is monitoring the storm forecast, and regional staff are fueling and preparing UTVs/ATVs, generators, and wood chippers; identifying sawyer crews; clearing drainage structures of potential blockages, removing known hazardous limbs and trees, and pre-positioning sandbags by facilities with known flooding issues. Potential visitors are urged to visit https://parks.ny.gov/ for updates on any potential changes on facility operating hours stemming from the storm.

Utility crews from PSEG LI will be staging trucks and supplies at Bethpage State Park in the picnic area parking lot and near the clubhouse in anticipation of the storm. 

New York State Police

The New York State Police has instructed all Troopers to remain vigilant and closely monitor conditions for any problems. Additional personnel will be deployed to affected areas as needed. Members of the State Police swift water rescue team will be deployed and staged for immediate response.  All four-wheel drive vehicles and all specialty vehicles, including boats and utility vehicles, are in-service.

Department of Public Service

New York's utilities have approximately 4,500 workers available to engage in damage assessment, response and restoration across New York State. Department of Public Service staff will track the utilities' work throughout the storm event and will ensure the utilities shift the appropriate staffing to the regions anticipated to experience the greatest impact.  In addition, PSEG LI and Con Edison have secured approximately 1,800 additional mutual aid line workers to support their response and restoration efforts as a result of the impending impacts from Tropical Storm Isaias.

New York Power Authority

The New York Power Authority (NYPA) and the Canal Corporation are monitoring Tropical Storm Isaias. Staff are taking necessary precautionary measures to ensure continuity of operations. Operational impact to NYPA and Canals assets is not anticipated based on the current forecast, however, staff will continue to monitor updates from the National Weather Service and will coordinate with internal and external stakeholders.

Safety Tips

If traveling during heavy rain, please drive with care and keep these safety tips in mind:

• DO NOT attempt to drive over a flooded road. Turn around and go another way.
• DO NOT underestimate the destructive power of fast-moving water. Two feet of fast-moving flood water will float your car. Water moving at two miles per hour can sweep cars off a road or bridge.
• Leave early to avoid being marooned on flooded roads. 
• Follow recommended routes. DO NOT ignore emergency detours to view flooded areas.
• As you travel, monitor NOAA Weather Radio and local radio broadcasts for the latest information.
• Watch for washed-out roads, earth-slides, broken water or sewer mains, loose or downed electrical wires, and falling or fallen objects.
• Watch for areas where rivers or streams may suddenly rise and flood, such as highway dips, bridges, and low areas.
• If you are in your car and water begins to rise rapidly around you, abandon the vehicle immediately.

Prepare for flooding and severe weather:

• Know the county in which you live and the names of nearby cities. Severe weather warnings are issued on a county basis.
• Learn the safest route from your home or business to high, safe ground should you have to leave in a hurry.
• Develop and practice a 'family escape' plan and identify a meeting place if family members become separated.
• Make an itemized list of all valuables including furnishings, clothing and other personal property. Keep the list in a safe place.
• Stockpile emergency supplies of canned food, medicine and first aid supplies and drinking water. Store drinking water in clean, closed containers
• Plan what to do with your pets.
• Have a portable radio, flashlights, extra batteries and emergency cooking equipment available.
• Keep your automobile fueled. If electric power is cut off, gasoline stations may not be able to pump fuel for several days. Have a small disaster supply kit in the trunk of your car.
• Find out how many feet your property is above and below possible flood levels. When predicted flood levels are broadcast, you can determine if you may be flooded.
• Keep materials like sandbags, plywood, plastic sheeting and lumber handy for emergency waterproofing.

Have disaster supplies on hand, including:

• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Battery-operated radio and extra batteries
• First aid kit and manual
• Emergency food and water
• Non-electric can opener
• Essential medicines
• Checkbook, cash, credit cards, ATM cards

If experiencing a power outage, New Yorkers should:

• Turn off or disconnect major appliances and other equipment, e.g., computers, in case of a momentary power surge that can damage these devices. Keep one light turned on so you know when power returns. Consider using surge protectors wherever you use electronic equipment.
• Call your utility provider to notify them of the outage and listen to local broadcasts for official information. For a list of utilities in NYS visit the New York State Department of Public Service Check to see if your neighbors have power. Check on people with access or functional needs.
• Use only flashlights for emergency lighting - candles pose the risk of fire.
• Keep refrigerators and freezer doors closed - most food requiring refrigeration can be kept safely in a closed refrigerator for several hours. An unopened refrigerator will keep food cold for approximately four (4) hours. A full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours.
• Do not use a charcoal grill indoors and do not use a gas stove for heat - they could give off harmful levels of carbon monoxide.
• In cold weather, stay warm by dressing in layers and minimizing time spent outdoors. Be aware of cold stress symptoms (i.e., hypothermia) and seek proper medical attention if symptoms appear.
• If you are in a tall building, take the stairs and move to the lowest level of the building. If trapped in an elevator, wait for assistance. Do not attempt to force the doors open. Remain patient - there is plenty of air and the interior of the elevator is designed for passenger safety.
• Remember to provide fresh, cool water for your pets.
• Eliminate unnecessary travel, especially by car. Traffic signals will stop working during an outage, creating traffic congestion and dangerous driving conditions. If you must drive during a blackout, remember to obey the 4-way stop rule at intersections with non-functioning traffic signals.
• Remember that equipment such as automated teller machines (ATMs) and elevators may not be working.

For more safety tips, visit the DHSES website at www.dhses.ny.gov/oem/safety-info/index.cfm.

Governor Cuomo Announces Suspension of 19 Additional New York Bars' Liquor Licenses for Egregious Violations of Coronavirus-Related Regulations

83 Businesses' Liquor Licenses Have Been Suspended During Public Health Emergency

Multi-Agency Task Force Conducted Over 3,000 Compliance Checks Friday through Sunday Night, Observing 106 Additional Violations 

596 Charges Have Been Filed and Processed To Date; Updated List of Suspensions and Charges Available HERE

  Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced the state has suspended liquor licenses for 19 New York State bars after finding egregious violations of pandemic-related Executive Orders. Over the weekend, the state's multi-agency task force, led by the State Police and State Liquor Authority, conducted 3,047 compliance checks, documenting violations at 106 establishments. Businesses found in violation of COVID-19 regulations face fines up to $10,000 per violation, while egregious violations can result in the immediate suspension of a bar or restaurant's liquor license. 

"We continue to see situations that are just not intelligent and local governments have to crack down on these, whether they're in New York City or Long Island or upstate New York," Governor Cuomo said. "Bars and restaurants that continue to act irresponsibly are disrespectful, engaging in illegal behavior, and not only violating public health, but they are violating common decency. Protecting the health and safety of New Yorkers remains our number one priority, and we will continue to take aggressive enforcement actions against businesses that violate the law."

State Liquor Authority Chair Vincent Bradley said, "Blatantly ignoring public health and safety is inexcusable and the State Liquor Authority will continue to seek out and shut down businesses refusing to comply to the Governor's Executive Orders." 

The 19 establishments issued emergency orders of summary suspension from the State Liquor Authority Board during meetings on July 31st, August 1st, and August 2nd are:

"The New Elbo Room" at 170 Delaware Avenue in Albany, on August 2, 2020  

On July 30th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force conducted an undisclosed compliance check of the premises finding the bar crowded with patrons mingling, drinking and walking around the premises without facial coverings. Numerous sales of alcohol to patrons without food were observed, with the bartender informing investigators they only needed to purchase chips with alcohol. Investigators also observed patrons playing pool, and witnessed several patrons exiting the premises with alcoholic beverages without food. At no time during the inspection did investigators observe employees ask patrons to be seated, wear masks, not to stand and drink at the bar, or maintain social distancing. 

"Tequila Sunrise" at 132 West Fordham Road in the Bronx, on August 2, 2020   

On July 25th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed five employees without facial coverings, including the manager, two servers, a bouncer and a DJ. On August 1st, the SLA received a referral from the NYPD that on July 23rd and 24th, the premises was in full operation after New York City's 11 p.m. curfew for outside service, with over one-hundred-fifty patrons gathered outside the business, standing and drinking without facemasks, smoking hookah, with loud music playing with cars double parked in the street blocking traffic. The NYPD issued a summons on July 24th. 

"Brothers Taverna" at 23-01 Steinway Street in Astoria, on August 2, 2020  

On August 1st, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed a band playing with a crowd of approximately twenty-five patrons standing and dancing in front of the establishment without facial coverings, ignoring social distancing guidelines and consuming alcoholic beverages from clear plastic cups with no lids.

"La Sabrosura" at 25A East 170 Street in the Bronx, on August 2, 2020  

On July 31st, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed a DJ without a facial covering playing music in the street encouraging patrons congregate. Investigators documented four employees not wearing face coverings, over ten patrons at tables not properly spaced apart, patrons standing, ignoring social distancing guidelines and alcohol being sold on the premises and "to go" without any food, with the kitchen not operational during the inspection. 

"Bettolona" at 3143 Broadway in Manhattan, on August 2, 2020   

On August 1st, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed nine patrons sitting inside the restaurant eating and consuming alcohol. Additionally, an employee in the kitchen was observed cooking without a facial covering. 

"21 Greenpoint" at 21 Greenpoint Avenue in Brooklyn, on August 2, 2020   

On August 1st, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed two patrons inside the premises eating and drinking at the bar without facial coverings. Investigators also observed a crowd congregating directly outside the premises with two patrons without facial coverings standing and eating in addition to an unauthorized sidewalk table next to curb side. 

"Posh" at 405 West 51st Street in Manhattan, on August 2, 2020  

On August 1st, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed approximately thirty patrons gathered outside the restaurant, ignoring social distancing guidelines with numerous patrons standing and drinking, in addition to employees without facial coverings. 

"Lasagna Restaurant" at 196 8th Avenue aka 258 West 20th Street in Manhattan, on August 1, 2020   

On July 31st, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed five patrons sitting at the bar inside the premises consuming alcohol. The bartender, identified as the manager, was found serving the patrons without a facial covering. 

"Congress" at 208 Court Street in Brooklyn, on August 1, 2020   

On July 31st, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed eleven patrons directly in front of the premises drinking alcohol without food. Additionally, two customers were observed receiving alcoholic beverages to-go in open containers without food. 

"Made in Mexico" at 3950 10th Avenue in Manhattan, on August 1, 2020   

On July 31st, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed approximately seventy-five patrons gathered in a nightclub-like-atmosphere in the outdoor dining area, ignoring social distancing guidelines, numerous patrons drinking while standing, with tables not properly spaced apart and numerous patrons and employees without facial coverings. 

"Fokkus Room & Cucine" at 136-138 West Fordham Road in the Bronx, on August 1, 2020   

On July 28th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed the premises in full operation after New York City's 11 p.m. curfew for outside service with approximately forty-five individuals congregating in front of the sidewalk of the establishment and into the roadway, not socially distanced, not seated at tables and not wearing facemasks. One server was observed not wearing a face mask and the business had unlawfully expanded its footprint by placing tables in front of a neighboring business. 

"Pazza Notte" at 1375A Avenue of the Americas in Manhattan, on August 1, 2020   

On July 28th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed nine patrons standing on the sidewalk in front of the premises without facial coverings, with three observed ordering and consuming alcohol from a makeshift bar at this licensee's premises without any food. 

"Shinsen" at 44 Bowery in Manhattan, on July 31, 2020   

On July 30th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed at least 35 individuals, the majority not wearing masks or following social distancing protocols, consuming alcoholic beverages inside the restaurant without food present. Investigators also observed lap dances being performed by topless females without facemasks inside the premises, which is not approved for adult entertainment.

"Capelli's Café" at 107-11 Northern Boulevard in Corona, on July 31, 2020   

On July 25th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed the premises operating after New York City's 11 p.m. curfew for outside service, with at least 30 patrons seated and 8 patrons standing in the outdoor dining area, ignoring social distancing guidelines, with both employees and patrons observed not wearing facial coverings and no food being served. Additionally, on July 30th the SLA received a referral that on July 27th, NYPD officers responding to a 911 call observed four people, including the restaurant's manager, inside the premises consuming alcohol without face masks.   

"Marina Café" at 154 Mansion Avenue on Staten Island, on July 31, 2020   

On July 28th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed twenty patrons in addition to five employees inside the premises without facial coverings. Investigators also observed at least ten tables where patrons were consuming alcohol with no evidence of food being served or having been consumed.

"True Colors" at 7915 Roosevelt Avenue in Jackson Heights, on July 31, 2020   

On July 25th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed approximately twenty patrons standing in front of the location without facial coverings, ignoring social distancing guidelines, and no food being served.  Investigators also noted DJ playing music on the sidewalk without a facemask and outdoor tables extended out in front of a neighboring business. True Colors is a repeat offender, with pending charges for EO violations on July 18th.  

"Amata" at 209 15 East 56th Street in Manhattan, on July 31, 2020   

On July 30th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed eight patrons at four separate tables inside the restaurant, in flagrant violation of Executive Order 202.43 regarding indoor dining. 

"George Keeley's" at 485 Amsterdam Avenue in Manhattan, on July 31, 2020   

On July 30th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed twelve patrons standing and congregating around high top tables outside the bar with alcohol and with just one basket of popcorn on the table.

"Yeras Restaurant and Sports Bar" at 86-09 Northern Boulevard in Jackson Heights in Jackson Heights, on July 31, 2020  

On July 18th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed the business operating after New York City's 11 p.m. curfew for outside service with fourteen patrons congregating outside the premises without face masks, consuming alcohol, and ignoring social distancing guidelines. An employee at the front door was not wearing a face covering and no food was observed being served. 

The SLA also denied a pending liquor license for a hotel, BLVD 93 in Rego Park, today. On August 1st, a SLA investigator discovered a large gathering in progress at the premises, with two separate parties on the rooftop with over one-hundred patrons at each. Investigators found alcohol being served at the unlicensed location, with patrons without facial coverings standing, ignoring social distancing guidelines and illegally smoking hookah. A criminal court summons was issued by the NYPD for warehousing alcoholic beverages without a permit. 

The SLA also determined today the license for "Liberty Belle," a party boat docked at 72 Bowne Street in Brooklyn will not be renewed. On August 1st, officers with the New York City Sheriff's Office discovered over one-hundred patrons aboard the party vessel, ignoring social distancing guidelines and serving alcohol with an expired liquor license, with Sheriff's arresting the owners and captain for social distancing violations and operating an unlicensed bar. 

The emergency suspensions were ordered by Chairman Bradley, Commissioner Lily Fan and Commissioner Greeley Ford at special meetings of the Full Board on July 31st, August 1st, and August 2nd, 2020, all conducted by a digitally recorded video under social distancing guidelines. 

Emergency Summary Suspensions are imposed when the SLA finds the continued operation of a licensed business threatens public health and safety. Suspension orders are served immediately and remain in effect indefinitely, with the maximum penalty including the permanent revocation of the license and fines of up to $10,000 per violation. Licensees subject to an emergency suspension are entitled to an expedited hearing before an SLA Administrative Law Judge.

MAYOR DE BLASIO ON TROPICAL STORM ISAIAS PREPARATIONS

  Mayor Bill de Blasio: All right, everybody. Well, what you're seeing here are the preparations for the storm that's going to be coming in, in the next 24 hours. And I want to thank Commissioner Deanne Criswell, everyone at Emergency Management, everyone at Environmental Protection, Department of Transportation – there's a lot of agencies that are working right now to make sure things are safe and secure. What you see here are the tiger dams. So, these orange barriers have been put in place, filled with water, and they connect to the HESCO barriers, that's the tan barriers you see down there, that's a permanent feature. So, what's going to happen here by the end of the day today is you will have a full ceiling, a full barrier from Catherine Slip up by the Brooklyn Bridge all the way down to Wall Street.

 

Now, for anybody who was here after Hurricane Sandy, you will remember how hard this neighborhood got hit. I talked to a lot of people in those days who lived here, a lot of people who worked here. They went through, really, hell in this neighborhood. A lot of businesses were closed for a long time. It was a very, very difficult situation. This is a particularly low-lying area with a lot of people in it. So, these barriers now are going to provide us a different kind of protection than what we were dealing with back then. If you look over by the Wavertree, I was pointing earlier to that sign, right to the left of the ship, that shows you the high-water mark from Sandy. It was four feet from ground level – from where we are standing – four feet of storm surge. We're expecting a lot less, thank God, with this storm, but it reminds you of what people went through and why it is so important to protect this neighborhood and neighborhoods that are vulnerable. And a lot of different things have been done over the years. Permanent barriers being put in place in a lot of areas. I mentioned this morning, the Rockaway Beach boardwalk – five-and-a-half mile long permanent barrier. It’s a great example, but many, many other efforts have been put in and will be put in in the coming years.

 

This is a kind of thing we'll have to do to protect ourselves from this point forward, given climate change and the challenges we face. So, I want to thank all of the agencies that have done this great work, and want to encourage all New Yorkers, take this storm seriously. Please take precautions. Please look out for your neighbors. If anyone needs help, make sure you're there for them because this is the kind of thing that comes on fast and people need to be ready.

Important Notice from Senator Biaggi: Tropical Storm Warning in District 34

Dear Community,

As you may already be aware, Tropical Storm Isaias is making its way up the east coast. I urge you and your family to be prepared, safe, and informed.

The National Weather Service has issued a Tropical Storm Warning, as well as flash flood watches, for the lower Mid-Hudson, New York City, and Long Island regions.

New York City and the lower Mid-Hudson should expect hurricane-like conditions – strong winds and very heavy rainfall – starting tomorrow (Tuesday), August 4th, through at least tomorrow evening. Forecasts are predicting that New Yorkers in these regions could experience wind speeds between 40 and 50 mph, with gusts reaching nearly 70 mph at the peak of the storm. The storm is also expected to bring between two to four inches of rain to New York, with the possibility of up to six inches in areas experiencing the heaviest impact. Localized storm surges of up to two feet are also a possibility along the coastline.

New Yorkers can view the complete listing of National Weather Service notices, as well as access the latest forecasts, by visiting their website here.

New York State has pre-deployed resources to the regions that are expected to experience the greatest impacts. New York City has also announced that it will close all city-run beaches to swimming on Tuesday.

At this time, the American Red Cross in Greater New York has staff members on standby to open 10 shelters across the region, including in New York City and Westchester County. These teams are trained to provide comfort and care to evacuated/displaced residents while taking into account safety protocols necessitated by COVID-19. 

Tips from the Red Cross on How to Be Prepared, Safe, and Informed:

• Monitor the news and follow warnings issued by Emergency Management officials.
• Have supplies on hand at home – i.e. food, water, flashlights, chargers, batteries, medication, cash – in the event that you have to shelter in place and a bag ready to go with some of the same supplies if you have to evacuate. 
• The Red Cross has a free Emergency App available for download with preparedness tips, info on shelter locations, and weather alerts. 

The Red Cross is also seeking new volunteers for their Hurricane Reserve Corps. To sign-up, click here and scroll down to find the “Shelter” or “Health Services” roles. Training for these new volunteers will be conducted online.

Just as you have done throughout the course of this pandemic, be sure to check in with your neighbors and loved ones who may be vulnerable and in need of support during the storm. And as always, you can reach Team Biaggi for assistance by calling 718-822-2049 or emailing biaggi@nysenate.gov.

Stay safe and dry District 34!

With Gratitude,

New York State Senator Alessandra Biaggi

Pelham Parkway Clean Up

  As part of the Monday Morning Clean Up Program instituted by Bronx Borough president Ruben Diaz Jr. members of the community met with Parks Department employees, staffers from Councilman Mark Gjonaj's office, and workers from Wildcat to clean up the Pelham Parkway area from White Plain Road to Muliner Avenue. 

Dozens of bags of assorted trash, plastic containers, and empty bottles were collected by the many volunteers who did a job well done. The parkway looked much cleaner now that the trash that was collected was gone. The hope is that no new trash will be discarded, but only time will tell if another clean up is needed.

Above - Bronx Parks Commissioner Iris Rodriguez is joined by some of her Parks Department employees, and a few of the volunteers.

Below - Members of the Pelham Parkway Neighborhood Association hold their tolls for the clean up of their area.

The volunteers in action, cleaning up Pelham Parkway.

Is the Board of Elections going to Certify Alleged Election Fraud in the 78th and 87th Assembly Districts

  Baring a hurricane that floods the Board of Elections in lower Manhattan below is the agenda for Tuesday's 1:30 PM commissioners meeting to certify the June 23, 2020 Primary Election. What Item #3 is about is a mystery. There are rumors it will involve how to eliminate votes for certain candidates in the 79th and 87th Assembly Districts who were on the ballot while the Board of Elections Appealed a judge's ruling that put those candidates back on. We hope that the BOE also explains how they did not check the residency of one candidate in the 79th Assembly race who did not meet the New York State constitution requirements for residency.

 

BOARD OF ELECTIONS

THE CITY OF NEW YORK 

DRAFT AGENDA 

COMMISSIONERS MEETING 

TUESDAY, AUGUST 4, 2020 AT 1:30 P.M.

1. Meeting of the Board of Canvassers in the City of New York to Certify the June 23, 2020 Democratic Presidential Primary Election and the June 23, 2020 Primary Election for Public Offices and Party positions within the City of New York

2. Michael J. Ryan a. Appointment of Commissioners’ Cover Sheet Review Committees for Week #2 – Independent Nominating Petitions for the November 2020 General Election

3. Executive Session