Baldwin, NY – Nassau County Executive Thomas R. Suozzi, joined by Legislator Joseph Scannell (D-Baldwin), Legislator David Denenberg (D-Merrick), Deputy County Executive of Parks, Public Works and Partnerships Peter Gerbasi, Deputy Parks Commissioner Richard Murphy, elected officials and civic leaders, today announced the restoration and beautification of Silver Lake Park and Lofts Pond Park in Baldwin, and Mill Pond Park in Wantagh. The goal of this capital improvement project, which will cost $3.8 million, is to restore the beauty and aquatic habitat of the ponds.

“Capital improvement projects such as this are an excellent example of what can be accomplished when the county’s finances are in order,” County Executive Suozzi said. “The restoration of these three ponds will provide our residents with natural settings and pristine parks to enjoy for years to come.”

"I am extremely pleased that the Silver Lake Pond project has finally become a reality and that this community will soon have a restored pond that they can be proud of," said Legislator Scannell (D-Baldwin).

Beginning in September, the project involves the dredging of silt from the three ponds, the installation of vegetative pond bank systems to help prevent erosion, and the removal of invasive species of plants which could potentially destroy the beauty and health of the park. Plants will be installed at the three ponds, as well, with dozens of trees and hundreds of shrubs planted throughout the three parks.

Additional improvements made at Lofts Pond, a 14-acre park, will include the removal of concrete retaining walls and the installation of a boardwalk and fishing pier.