Funding Will Support Improvements to Hickey-Joyce Field Complex and Drinking Water Infrastructure
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced up to $9.5 million in State capital funding to support two major projects in Rockville Centre, including the renovation of the Hickey-Joyce Field Complex and upgrades to the Village’s drinking water filtration system.
“Every New Yorker deserves clean water and safe places for children and families to play,” Governor Hochul said. “These investments will help Rockville Centre modernize the infrastructure residents rely on every day while building a healthier, stronger community for generations to come.”
The investments include $2.5 million for the renovation of the Hickey-Joyce Field Complex and up to $7 million for upgrades to Rockville Centre’s municipal water filtration system. The funding will be administered by the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York.
Hickey-Joyce Field Complex
New York State will provide $2.5 million in capital funding to support a full renovation of the Hickey-Joyce Field Complex, home to Rockville Centre Little League.
The $7.2 million project will include synthetic turf infields, sod outfields, new mesh backstops and fencing, upgraded sports field lighting, spectator seating and a new press box at Hickey Field.
The project also includes $2 million in federal funding from U.S. Representative Laura Gillen.
Rockville Centre Water Filtration System
New York State will provide up to $7 million in capital funding to support upgrades to Rockville Centre’s municipal water filtration system.
The $8 million project will improve the Village’s ability to filter iron and 1,4-Dioxane, a solvent and potential carcinogen, from its drinking water system, helping protect water quality and strengthen critical local infrastructure.
Dormitory Authority of the State of New York President and CEO Robert J. Rodriguez said, “These investments will support critical infrastructure that Rockville Centre residents rely on every day, from recreational facilities to clean drinking water. DASNY is proud to administer this State capital funding and work with our partners to help move these important projects forward.”
Representative Laura Gillen said, “I was proud to deliver $2 million in new federal funding to make Rockville Centre’s Hickey-Joyce Field Complex more accessible. Before coming to Congress, I promised RVC’s Little League and Challenger League that I would deliver this investment for Hickey Field, and I’m glad to have helped make these upgrades possible. I won’t stop fighting to bring more resources back to Nassau County, including crucial funding to improve RVC's water treatment.”=
State Senator Siela Bynoe said, "I am thankful for Governor Kathy Hochul’s funding announcement, which will deliver important investments to the Village of Rockville Centre and to the families, seniors, and small businesses that make this community so special. New York State is committed to investing in key projects that improve the quality of life for New Yorkers of all ages. One such project is the Village’s water filtration upgrade, which will help remove iron and 1,4-dioxane from the drinking water system. This essential $7 million investment will deliver meaningful, lasting benefits to Rockville Centre residents. Furthermore, I am elated that the Hickey-Joyce Field Complex will receive a significant $2.5 million investment to improve playing conditions. The project will include field improvements, new seating, and a new press box. I look forward to seeing our Little League athletes, coaches, and spectators enjoy the renovated complex for years to come."
Assemblymember Judy Griffin said, “Today is a banner day for Rockville Centre! Thanks to a powerful partnership with the Governor, major upgrades are officially coming to our community's recreational spaces and our water infrastructure. When I returned to office, advocating for direct investments into Assembly District 21 was my top priority, and I am incredibly grateful to see this generous funding come to fruition today. Building on the $2 million I secured from the NYS Assembly in July, the Governor’s timely $2.5 million allocation allows us to break ground on the Hickey-Joyce Athletic Complex. This new inclusive and accessible complex will ensure children of all abilities can play safely, get active, learn teamwork and make friends. The turf fields, a tee ball field, batting cages, renovated playground, walkways and upgraded lighting will provide a safe, state-of-the-art home for the RVC Little League, RVC Challenger League and a vibrant destination for the entire community. Clean and safe water is a vital quality of life necessity and I am so pleased this incredible $7 million investment in capital improvements will provide the infrastructure the village needs to ensure that residents are provided with safe high quality water for generations to come. Thank you, Governor Hochul for seeing the vision, listening and generously investing in these worthy projects in AD21!”
Village of Rockville Centre Mayor Francis X. Murray said, “We are extremely grateful to Governor Hochul for investing $2.5 million toward the transformation of Hickey Park into a state-of-the-art Athletic Complex and another $7 million toward the construction of our third Iron Removal Treatment Plant. The funding for Hickey Park will help us move forward with creating a modern, inclusive facility for athletes and spectators of all abilities, while the investment in our water infrastructure will support our commitment to continue providing residents with safe, reliable drinking water. These projects represent important investments in the quality of life of our community, and we thank the Governor for recognizing their importance to Rockville Centre’s future.”
Nassau County Legislator Scott M. Davis said, “Pure drinking water and modern, well-maintained recreational facilities are essential core elements of any holistic strategy for preserving and enhancing public health at any age. This significant capital investment, spearheaded by Governor Hochul, will elevate quality of life and wellness for Rockville Centre residents, and it achieves this outcome without placing additional costs upon Village taxpayers — and that is something we can all appreciate.”
Rockville Centre Little League President Peter Klugewicz said, “The Rockville Centre Little League Board of Directors has worked tirelessly for over 3 years to improve our baseball and softball fields. Thanks to Governor Hochul, NY State Senator Siela Bynoe, NY State Assemblywoman Judy Griffin, Nassau County Legislator Scott Davis, United States Congresswoman Laura Gillen, RVC Mayor Fran Murray and so many others we've accomplished our goal. Once these fields are complete our baseball, softball & challenger players will play on state of the art fields.”