The Incorporated Village of Port Washington North mayor and board members, Town of North Hempstead officials and residents gathered under the new sun shades to welcome phase two of the Bay Walk Path with a ribbon cutting and grand opening ceremony.
The ceremony began with an inaugural raising of the park’s American flag by a veteran with a dedication of the flagpole to Port Washington veterans. Speeches were given by Mayor Robert Weitzner, Town Supervisor Judi Bosworth and Town Councilwoman Dina De Giorgio following.
“It’s amazing to think 14 years ago. a Bay Walk Steering Committee was formed of government officials, stakeholders and residents of this wonderful hamlet to figure out what we could do with 1.5 acres of this wonderful property,” said Weitzner. “Many said we would never get a consensus to make this happen, but they were wrong. We’ve spent the past 14 years planning, raising funds and finally constructing this magnificent park. We are proud to turn it over to the Port Washington community.”
Unveiled at the new park was a kayak launch, a boat resting area, a parking lot and drop-off zone, a family picnic area with sun shades, an electronic informational kiosk, a water bottle replenishing station with a water fountain and a pet water station, a rain garden and the expansion of the Port North pier float. Two new pieces were added to the Nautical Art Museum including Lyman Whitaker’s three kinetic art sculptures of double helix sails flanked by two meridians and Aaron Morgan’s stained glass sculpture depicting the history of yacht clubs along Manhasset Bay. Residents enjoyed the rest of the day, admiring the new sculptures and listening to the sounds of The Whiskey Dogs.
“While the Village of Port North will keep improving this park, we ask that the residents come together and become caretakers of this park,” said Weitzner. “Help protect it for us and future generations.”
