Calls for Better Information After Hudson River Spills

By Channon Hodge

Boaters, environmental groups and community leaders told state senators at a hearing Friday they needed better information the day a fire caused untreated wastewater to flow into the Hudson River in July.

That day and the days following, the Department of Environmental Protection sent out a continual slew of emails, alerts and press releases, but not everyone was clear about whether they should cancel plans to enjoy the water especially in the critical hours that afternoon.

Nancy Brous, with the NYC Water Trails Association, said that lack of speedy information contributed to an atmosphere of mistrust that lingers today.