1) Renovated stores and restaurants: unfortunately, many were forced to remodel because of Sandy.   Hoy’s 5 & 10 in Avalon is cleared out in preparation of the necessary repairs.  Marabella’s in Stone Harbor will have a new look by early spring.   And of course, Avalon residents anxiously await the re-opening of Wawa!

2) Roadway repairs: the damaged section of Ocean Drive on the Avalon side of the Townsends Inlet Bridge is scheduled to be repaired in March. First Avenue in Stone Harbor- drainage work continues to allow for the eventual removal of the pipes along the beach.

3) Beaches: the island is so fortunate- a beach fill project was scheduled even before Sandy. The dredge is in place, and the dredging company employees are preparing for the arrival of the heavy equipment.  Damaged dunes will be restored, and our beaches will be in great shape for the 2013 summer season.

4) The Bank of America building on 96th Street and Second Avenue will be demolished to make way for a new Stone Harbor Public Library.

5) The Reeds Hotel & Spa is expected to open this summer. Construction continues daily at 96th Street and Third Avenue.

I enjoyed the New Year’s Eve sunrise (pictured)…and look forward to many more in 2013!