Port Chester Council faces urgent calls for drainage funding and infrastructure improvements

During the Richmond City Council meeting on April 15, 2025, community concerns regarding infrastructure and funding for Parchester Village took center stage. Residents voiced their frustrations over the timeline for necessary improvements, particularly in relation to drainage issues and road repairs.

Lori Hart, Vice President of the Port Chester Village Neighborhood Council, emphasized the urgency of allocating funds for infrastructure projects, expressing dissatisfaction with the proposed timeline that extends to 2027. Hart urged the council to prioritize immediate funding, suggesting that even a modest allocation could help address pressing needs before the situation worsens.

Thomasina Horsley, a long-time resident of Parchester Village, shared personal experiences highlighting the severe drainage problems affecting her mother's home. She pointed out that inadequate drainage not only impacts residents but also poses safety risks for pedestrians, particularly during rainy weather. Horsley called for a collaborative approach involving various stakeholders, including local businesses and institutions, to tackle these issues comprehensively.

Alvin Cook echoed these sentiments, criticizing the council's proposed budget for a study on drainage issues, which he deemed excessive. He argued that practical solutions could be identified without incurring such high costs. Cook also raised concerns about inadequate signage in the village, which he believes contributes to unsafe driving conditions.

Mark Waspberg, another resident, expressed skepticism about the council's commitment to timely improvements, suggesting that the community has been waiting for decades for necessary changes. He highlighted the historical context of Parchester Village, noting its origins and the ongoing challenges faced by its residents.

The discussions at the meeting underscored a growing frustration among Parchester residents regarding the slow pace of infrastructure improvements. As the council prepares to finalize the fiscal budget, the urgency for immediate action on these issues remains a critical point of contention. The community's calls for prioritization and transparency in funding allocation will likely influence future council decisions as they seek to address the longstanding challenges faced by Parchester Village.