State Sen. Tom Croci and Islip Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter announced Wednesday that they have secured $1 million in grant money to be used to clean up Roberto Clemente Park in Brentwood.
As News 12 has reported, an estimated 50,000 tons of toxic waste was illegally dumped in the Brentwood park. Six people have been indicted in connection with the illegal dumping.
The money is part of the state budget that was signed by Gov. Andrew Cuomo late Tuesday night.
Community activists say they're pleased with the progress.
"I'm glad to see the officials that represent the community are finally taking a step forward," said Juan Munoz, of Brentwood.
There are six bidders hoping to perform the cleanup. The bids on the project range in cost from $2.9 million to more than $5 million. Town officials and a group of environmental consultants are expected to make their recommendation to the town board within the next couple of weeks.
Officials say the work is not expected to begin until June. It will take about four months to complete.