August 06, 2013
Randy Simons
Dan Keefe
(518) 486-1868
Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced completion of a $930,000 project to rebuild the riverfront trail in Nyack Beach State Park, which was severely damaged during Hurricane Sandy.
"New York State continues to build back better than ever after the widespread destruction caused by Superstorm Sandy," Governor Cuomo said. "This trail in Nyack Beach State Park suffered considerable damage from the storm and I am pleased to announce it is now back to its pre-storm condition. New Yorkers can once again fully enjoy the trail, which is a great outlet for healthy recreation along the Hudson River."
Visited by 150,000 people annually, Nyack Beach features a riverfront trail that runs north along the Hudson River to Haverstraw. High storm surges from the late October 2013 storm badly damaged about 2.5 miles of trail and seawall.
The project included restoration of the gravel/stone dust path to its pre-storm condition, repairing the park's parking lot, and building a gabion wall to protect portions of the trail from erosion. The trail was closed for more than six months after the storm. Initial repairs enabled the trail to open by Memorial Day weekend, but users had encountered detours.
"I'm thankful for the leadership of Governor Cuomo in making the recovery of Nyack Beach a priority," State Parks Commissioner Rose Harvey said. "Completion of the trail project is another step forward in New York's recovery from the devastation of Hurricane Sandy."
Senator David Carlucci said, "The restoration of the riverfront trail at Nyack Beach State Park will serve as a recreational haven for countless residents to enjoy. In the immediate aftermath of Superstorm Sandy, our communities throughout the Hudson Valley were devastated by the damage sustained from this powerful storm. This latest project shows our continued commitment to helping the people of New York State rebuild their lives. I would like to thank Governor Cuomo for his tireless leadership and commitment to strengthening and protecting our environment."
Assemblyman Kenneth Zebrowski Jr. said, "I am happy that the Nyack Beach Park trail way is fully open for all Rockland residents and visitors to enjoy. The park is a locally significant asset that adds both recreational and economic benefits to the region. This is another sign that New York is on the road to full recovery from Sandy."
The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees 179 state parks and 35 historic sites, which are visited by 60 million people annually. A recent study commissioned by Parks & Trails New York found that New York State Parks generates $1.9 billion in economic activity annually and supports 20,000 jobs. For more information on any of these recreation areas, call 518-474-0456 or visit www.nysparks.com, connect on Facebook, or follow on Twitter.