Editorial: The post-9/11 Kensico Dam
The top of the Kensico Dam in Valhalla offers a view of the 300-foot drop to the plaza below. (May 24, 2012) Credit: Angela Gaul
After 9/11, Westchester County lost access to one of its great public gems -- Kensico Dam -- over legitimate security concerns. Years later, a $42-million repair project was the culprit blocking the roadway on top of the dam, further delaying public access.
Until now.
The path, which sits hundreds of feet above a Westchester County park on one side and a New York City reservoir on the other, is open again for pedestrians looking for a scenic walk, run or bike ride this summer. And the timing couldn't be better -- just before Memorial Day weekend.
Credit the work of New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino and the scores of state, city and county agencies that have ensured that the drinking water is clean, the structure is safe and the park can open.
Closing of the dam -- which, coincidently, overlooks the plaza that is home to The Rising, Westchester County's memorial to its 109 victims of the terrorist attacks -- was yet another reminder of how our lives changed, even in subtle ways, after 2001.
The rehabilitation work was paid for by the New York City Department of Environmental Protection. It included important structural repairs as well as visible improvements to the colonnades, pavilions, fountains and landscaping, which add to the already fantastic views.
With a capacity of 30.6 billion gallons, the reservoir is the last stop for water before it flows into the Hillview Reservoir in Yonkers for distribution in New York City. Vehicles haven't been given the green light yet, but officials are hopeful.
Reopening the 1,843-foot span to the public is part of the DEP's broader aim of making thousands of acres accessible and expanding recreation opportunities along its vast watershed throughout the state.
This move isn't an end to the vigilance, but another reminder that it must be balanced with safety and convenience, so we can go on with our everyday lives.
