Environment DEC
From the August 2006 issue
More Than $1.6 Million Announced for Parks, Waterfront Revitalization and Preservation Projects in Central New York
Governor George E. Pataki recently announced Environmental Protection Fund (EPF) grants totaling $1,616,172 for 11 open space, recreation, preservation and waterfront revitalization projects in Oneida, Onondaga, Oswego and Madison counties.
Four of the EPF grants are administered by the Department of State (DOS) and seven by the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP). Secretary of State Christopher L. Jacobs visited the region to highlight two of the DOS administered awards: a $135,000 grant to the City of Rome for construction of a Mohawk River Hike and Bike Trail connecting Bellamy Harbor Park to Delta Lake State Park, and a $110,000 grant to the City of Oswego for renovations to docks at Wright's Landing Marina on Oswego Harbor.
Grants Create Opportunities
"The Environmental Protection Fund has been a critical tool in supporting local projects that provide new opportunities for people to access and enjoy our natural resources and historic treasures," Governor Pataki said. "These 11 grants will help communities improve local quality of life by protecting open space and revitalizing waterfront areas, creating and expanding outdoor recreation, and preserving the character and heritage of the Central New York region. These grants are an investment that will truly benefit these communities and local residents for years to come."
Mohawk River Hike and Bike Trail
Bike trails offer a safe area for
bicyclists of all ages and abilities
The 5.5-mile Mohawk River Hike and Bike Trail will provide a continuous, green connection through the heart of the City of Rome, and complement a number of other investments being made in the downtown area. These include the installation of streetscape improvements, including lighting and signs, sidewalk upgrades, and the addition of green space and street trees. The grant funding for the trail also will be used to continue the city's waterfront/downtown coordinator position.
Wright's Landing Marina
Wright's Landing Marina, located at the northern terminus of the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor, provides water access and recreational activities adjacent to the city of Oswego's Westside business district. The marina also supports tourism development goals and builds on Oswego's strong record of waterfront investment. The city will repair and renovate the dock and dock finger of the marina's "blue dock," install electric, cable and potable water service at the dock, upgrade electric service to the marina, and install three safety pedestals with fire extinguisher and life buoys at the white, red and blue docks.
Nine Additional Grants
Nine additional grants are included in the announcement. Two are administered by DOS's Division of Coastal Resources and seven are administered by OPRHP. The two DOS grants include community visioning and planning in the Village of Pulaski, and beach stabilization in the Village of Sylvan Beach. The seven OPRHP grants include the creation of recreational trails, rehabilitation of historic properties, and development and improvement of parklands.
