When Hurricane Sandy struck no one was prepared, least of all the communities in the Far Rockaways and Staten Island that were hardest hit. More than four months later, these communities are still reeling.
In November, the damage was so bad that Mayor Bloomberg made it clear there would never be a new wooden boardwalk. When we went out there residents spoke of the difficulty and delays in getting emergency aid.
By December business and individuals were getting back on their feet, but power and telephone service had only just resumed for many residents. In January as Congress fought over the specifics of an aid deal, people in the Rockaways were busy trying to save their homes.
In early February, early plans for how to use the first $1.77 billion for New York City from the $51 billion in federal aid for Hurricane Sandy relief, were released, but city officials warned it could take months for the money to be distributed.
But residents have persevered on their own. With local businesses like Suncycle Studios reopening already. And the YANA (You Are Never Alone) Center, another important aid center during the initial weeks after the storm, is close to reopening with the help of Occupy Sandy and other volunteer organizations.
Just last week, plans for aid were finalized, and in the Rockaways people say it is desperately needed. They're close to giving up hope.
As you drive into the Rockaways, a blue sky filled with puffy white clouds can give the impression everything is back to normal.
But there are many reminders of work to be done.
In February, Mayor Bloomberg presented New York City's initial plan for its first $1.77 billion installment from the $51 billion relief funds set aside by Congress.
Source: "City Plans to Allot First $1 Billion in Storm Aid to Housing and Businesses"
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