Workshop To Discuss Rockland Riverway Trail

ROCKLAND COUNTY, NY — The Rockland Riverway Trail Feasibility Study is investigating the potential for a designated 21-mile pathway for pedestrians and bicyclists from the southernmost to the northernmost tip of the county, along or near the Hudson River whenever possible.

There are two ways to provide feedback to the study team.

Visit the website for information and opportunities to provide your feedback. You can actually "pin" comments on an interactive map there (see above).

Or, go to the open house/workshop on Nov. 2 and provide your input. You can drop in between 6:30-9 p.m. at the West Haverstraw Community Center, 130 Samsondale Ave., West Haverstraw 10993.

"We invite the public to weigh in on this countywide recreation that will benefit Rocklanders for generations to come," said County Executive Ed Day on the webpage. "We saw the repercussions COVID-19 had on mental health issues which skyrocketed throughout pandemic lockdowns, which is why the County of Rockland is investing in the wellbeing of residents by creating more urban green spaces, including this walk and bike path that will stretch from Palisades to Stony Point/"

The Rockland Riverway Trail would:

• Support the health and quality of life for Rockland County residents through maximizing access to recreation, the outdoors and active transportation.
• Explore opportunities for connections that will integrate communities all over Rockland County.
• Have a strong potential to be an engine for the County's economic development and tourism.
• Enhance the public realm by highlighting stories of local history and culture, as well as environmental sustainability.

The point of the study is to determine the feasibility of constructing the trail by assessing the physical and social characteristics of alignment options. Among other things, the study will:

• Identify implementation and next steps based on a concluding SWOT (Strengths, Weakness, Opportunity, Threats) analysis.
• Determine overall project feasibility, supported by a final recommended path alignment.
• Explore opportunities for amenities, gathering spaces, and aesthetic elements that would make the Shared Use Path a well-loved community place.
• Identify design-planning requirements and cost estimates.

The study is paid for with ARPA funding. The study team includes consultants BFJ Planning, Toole Design, and Urbanomics. EMAIL: ARPA@co.rockland.ny.us