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Major Repairs Still Needed On Liberty Island After Sandy

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- The Statue of Liberty survived Superstorm Sandy without any damage, but such was not the case for Liberty Island.

As WCBS 880's Jim Smith reported, about 75 percent of Liberty Island was flooded out during Sandy, including the information and administration buildings.

WCBS 880's Jim Smith reports

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The electrical system on the island was soaked, and the superintendent's home was destroyed. Walkways, fences and docks were also left in disrepair.

Over the past month, crews have been hard at work clearing debris and downed trees. A generator is needed to illuminate Lady Liberty.

Supt. David Luchsinger said the effort to restore the island could take months, and his home may not be rebuilt at all, forcing him to live somewhere off the island.

Sandy hit the day after Lady Liberty's crown was scheduled to reopen as part of a $30 million upgrade.

The Statue of Liberty will not reopen this year. Ellis Island, where the storm damaged doors, windows and exhibits in the ferry building, will also remain closed.

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