Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

New Design and Timeline Announced for Replacement of Iconic Footbridge

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The Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) announced today that the current Sentry Bridge at the entrance of Watkins Glen State Park will be replaced next year. A new, sustainable span will be built to last through the next 100 years, replacing the 1908 span that has been compromised by time and weather.

"When coming to Watkins Glen, we want visitors to have the full park experience so they can enjoy nature's beauty," said State Parks Commissioner Pro Tempore Randy Simons. "For more than a century, park goers have crossed the Sentry Bridge, taken a deep breath, and gone on to explore the park. This new bridge will blend the natural landscape and keep the gorge as the focal point making the next century just as memorable."

A careful study conducted by OPRHP determined a full replacement of the Sentry Bridge is needed to address unstable rock conditions. The current footbridge was made of concrete with stone veneer cladding. The new, lightweight bridge reinterprets the historic arch with a contemporary half-arch made of durable stainless steel. It will tie in the natural landscape with state-of-the-art materials. The bridge will now rely on the stronger rock of the gorge's north side for support, creating an enduring new symbol for Watkins Glen State Park.

Construction is expected to begin July 7, 2025. The bridge is expected to re-open prior to July 4, 2026. The new design came from a team led by the New York City studios of schlaich bergermann partner (sbp) and Snøhetta. After carefully studying the site conditions with the design team, OPRHP determined that a full replacement of the Sentry Bridge was needed. Since this has a tight access location, removal of the current bridge will take time. The new bridge will be constructed off-site and then lifted into place in one piece. This means it will be completed sooner and bring less disturbance to the site overall with an estimated cost of $7.5 million from NY Works funding.

During construction, the Gorge Trail and 15 waterfalls will be accessible from North Rim Trail starting at the Main Entrance. Throughout the project, shuttle service will be available, the park's pool will remain open, and the gift shop and north entrance concession will also be open to the public.

Assemblyman Philip A. Palmesano said, "More than a million visitors saw the natural and scenic beauty of Watkins Glen State Park in 2023 and they most likely began their awe-inspiring journey into the Gorge path by walking over the 1930's era historic stone arch Sentry Bridge. Thank you to the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation for their commitment to preserving the past and their investment to showcasing the entryway of the Watkins Glen State Park for generations to come."

Senator Tom O'Mara said, "Watkins Glen State Park is one of New York's premiere tourist destinations as well as one of the finest state parks in America. It also stands as a foundation of the Finger Lakes regional economy providing recreational opportunities that sustain local economies, spark economic growth, and strengthen local communities. We appreciate and encourage New York's ongoing investments to enhance the park's quality and accessibility to keep delivering short- and long-term benefits for local governments and taxpayers."

Watkins Glen Mayor Laurie DeNardo said, "Watkins Glen State Park is an integral part of our local community and provides breathtaking scenery with a photogenic landscape that the locals and thousands of visitors enjoy each year. Known for its natural beauty and incredible history, Watkins Glen State Park leaves visitors spellbound. The investment from NYS Parks to rebuild the Sentry Bridge has been long awaited and will provide a welcome new entrance bridge for many years to come." 

Watkins Glen Chamber of Commerce President Nigar Hale said, "Our partnership with the Watkins Glen State Park is extraordinary. It is a partnership that enhances the community and visitor experience in the heart of the Finger Lakes and, of course, in the Village of Watkins Glen. By aligning our efforts, we are committed to preserving the natural beauty of the park while fostering economic growth and community engagement. Together, we aim to create memorable experiences for residents and visitors alike, ensuring that Watkins Glen remains a vibrant destination for years to come."

Watkins Glen State Park is the most popular of the Finger Lakes State Parks, welcoming 1.2 million annual visitors. It is on track to surpass that number in 2024. Within two miles, the glen's stream descends 400 feet past 200-foot cliffs, generating 19 waterfalls along its course. The gorge path winds over and under waterfalls and through the spray of Cavern Cascade. Rim trails overlook the gorge.

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees more than 250 parks, historic sites, recreational trails, golf courses, boat launches and more, which saw a record 84 million visits in 2023. For more information on any of these recreation areas, visit parks.ny.gov, download the free NY State Parks Explorer app or call 518.474.0456. Join us in celebrating our Centennial throughout 2024, and connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), the OPRHP Blog or via the OPRHP Newsroom.