Congresswoman Nita Lowey (D-Westchester/Rockland) issued the following statement on today’s announcement of the selection of a vendor to provide and install the new siren alert notification system for the Indian Point Energy Center.  Entergy, which owns and operates Indian Point, has selected Acoustic Technology, Inc. (ATI).

“Today’s announcement is a good step forward in fixing a problem that has plagued this community for far too long.  Like many residents of Westchester and Rockland Counties, I have been very concerned over the frequent failures of the existing siren system, which was clearly inadequate and in need of replacement.

“Now, the acquisition and installation of the new system must occur as quickly as possible, in close coordination with county officials, the State Emergency Management Office (SEMO), and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).   In the event of a disaster at the nuclear facility, public notification must be swift and seamless, and the government agencies responsible for emergency preparedness must have full knowledge of and confidence in the new system. I hope the new sirens finally meet the security needs of our communities.”