(Schenectady, NY) Susan Savage, Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature, today announced that Governor Paterson has approved $1.7 million in Federal stimulus money to connect the entire County for the first time ever via the Mohawk–Hudson Bike/Hike Trail. Chair Savage thanked the Governor for certifying the project for funding under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).
“I want to thank Governor Paterson for providing this important funding through the Federal stimulus plan to help us complete a bike and hike trail through Schenectady County,” said Chair Savage. “The bike-hike trail has been a priority of mine and we’ve consistently worked to improve the trail for the enjoyment of all Schenectady County residents. Today’s announcement of grant funding allows us to complete the trail at no cost to County taxpayers.”
The new project funded today will create a key 4.7 mile link in the trail starting at Washington Avenue in the Stockade and going all the way to Balltown Road in the Town of Niskayuna. The County previously obtained federal funding to connect the Rotterdam portion of the trail through SCCC to lower State Street in Schenectady. The new connection will follow Union Street through the Stockade turning left on North Jay through Little Italy to Union College. This portion of the trail will be on-road with a special signage for hikers and bikers. The grant will also improve curbs, making them handicap accessible and improve intersection crossings. The next section of the trail (3.4 miles) is a dedicated off –road trail. It will be completely rebuilt as a wider trail with improved intersections and better drainage. It will connect from Union College to Balltown Road in Niskayuna.
The completion of a bike-hike trail through Schenectady County will provide an expanded recreational asset to be used by local residents and visitors to the County. It will also make it possible to commute by bicycle to major employers such as Schenectady County Community College and the new Golub Corporation headquarters on Nott Street.
There is no local match for this funding. The project will begin work this year with a fall 2010 expected completion date.
Schenectady County also recently received federal funding to expand hiking trails in the Plotterkill preserve and is building a new bike-hike trial that will connect Niskayuna/Central Park/Vale Park and downtown using State funding.
A map showing the new 4.7 mile link in the Mohawk - Hudson Bike-Hike Trial is enclosed.
