Waterfront plan gets a $350,000 boosts.

Gov. George E. Pataki last week approved a $350,000 Environmental Protection Fund grant to the New York Restoration Project for improvements to waterfront parkland in the Bronx.

The grant will support the New York Restoration Project's efforts, in partnership with the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation, to develop and rehabilitate Bridge Park, located adjacent to Robert Clemente State Park along the Harlem River in the South Bronx.

"New York State is leading the nation in preserving our natural and cultural resources, revitalizing our waterfronts and expanding public access to outdoor enjoyment," Pataki said. "New York Restoration Project has been a tremendous partner in the State's efforts to protect open space and expand recreational opportunities and waterfront access in the New York metropolitan region.

Founded by Bette Midler in 1995, the New York Restoration Project is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to revitalizing and maintaining parklands, gardens and public spaces in New York City.

NYRP works through a public/private partnership that since its inception has restored over 375 acres of parkland throughout the city, removed more than 75,000 tons of debris, created a new park and the Peter Jay Sharp floating boathouse on the Harlem River, served thousands of students with environmental education programs, helped protect 114 community gardens, purchased and maintained nearly half the sites, and assisted with beautification efforts along the Henry Hudson Parkway.

The Governor made the announcement as he joined NYRP's Bette Midler, columnist Liz Smith, State and city officials and more than 300 guests at a ribbon-cutting ceremony held directly across the river for the new Peter Jay Sharp Boathouse at Swindler Cove Park.