Environment DEC
From the May 2005 issue
Governor Announces $1.1 Million for Westchester Parks and Preservation
Located in Yonkers, Untermyer Park will receive $100,000 toward restoration
As part of New York's Earth Day celebration, Governor George E. Pataki announced more than $1.1 million in Environmental Protection Fund (EPF) grants for seven preservation, open space and waterfront development projects in Westchester County. Highlights of the awards include two grants to the City of Peekskill for the rehabilitation of the historic Lincoln Train Depot and construction of a new visitor center at the site.
"The state's Environmental Protection Fund supports quality recreation and environmental stewardship in local communities around the state, providing the means to help protect and strengthen our state's unique outdoor resources," Governor Pataki said. "We're proud that these grants will help to preserve and restore historic treasures, create new parks and recreational facilities and increase public access to the waterfront here in Peekskill and across Westchester County and the lower Hudson Valley."
"The Lincoln Train Depot played an important role in this city's heritage and this announcement is another step forward to restore a local landmark and develop the site as an exciting destination for residents and tourists of all ages," Governor Pataki said. "We are proud to support the ongoing work that will improve the site's unique features for the public's enjoyment, offering educational opportunities for future generations of Westchester residents and visitors to the region," the Governor added.
Lincoln Train Depot
The Lincoln Train Depot, circa 1890, was the site of President Lincoln's only 'whistle stop' in Westchester County on his way to his first inauguration, as well as a stop for the Lincoln funeral train returning to Illinois. The City of Peekskill will receive a $250,000 grant administered through the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) to restore the depot museum as an interpretive museum with exhibits that commemorate Lincoln's visits and the Civil War and Underground Railroad. Peekskill plans to demolish the non-historic building at the front of the site and restore the depot authentically.
Commissioner Bernadette Castro of OPRHP said, "Through his unprecedented support of the Environmental Protection Fund, Governor Pataki has once again demonstrated his unwavering commitment to protecting the Empire State's remarkable historic landmarks and diverse scenic outdoor resources. By expanding public access and preserving local architectural heritage such as the improvements to the Lincoln Depot, we are enhancing communities all across the state, and strengthening the quality of life for all New Yorkers."Visitor Center
Peekskill also will receive a $350,000 grant through the Department of State's Local Waterfront Revitalization Program (LWRP) toward construction of a new visitor center adjacent to the depot. Plans for the new center include a comfort station, ticket office, a waiting area for tours and a gift shop.
In addition, Peekskill will receive a grant for $150,000 for planning and design related to a proposed 45-acre mixed-use redevelopment project on the Hudson River along Central Avenue. The grant will be used to fund community planning for the public elements of the redevelopment area and to hire a waterfront coordinator.
DOS Coastal Resources
The Department of State's Division of Coastal Resources administers EPF matching grants to local governments for the preparation and implementation of LWRPs and inter-municipal water-body management plans, development of coastal educational programs, creation of blueway trails and urban waterfront redevelopment.
Secretary of State Randy A. Daniels said, "Governor Pataki has long recognized that our environmental resources are a critical component of our daily lives, and he has provided unprecedented assistance to help municipalities develop and achieve their visions for vibrant waterfronts. These grants will continue the progress being made in the Hudson Valley to open new avenues to our waterfronts, allowing people to enjoy and benefit from all these areas have to offer."
Other Projects
The other four projects being funded include the following: 1) $100,000 to restore popular Untermyer Park in Yonkers; 2) $100,000 to support restoration of two historically significant architectural features of St. John's Church, also in Yonkers; 3) $150,000 for a new recreational area in the Village of Larchmont, and 4) $40,000 for waterfront revitalization in the Village of Dobbs Ferry.
