Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

Project supports Governor's ‘Unplug and Play' strategy to promote physical and mental health

New connector trail links to Lower Niagara River Trails

State Parks, NYPA and Wilson Foundation partner on project

Photos available here

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation announced today that a nearly $12 million project to improve and expand the visitor experience at Earl W. Brydges Artpark State Park (Artpark) is complete. Upgrades include a new connector trail, entrance features and parking improvements meant to improve traffic flow for events and better connect the park with the trails and amenities of the Lower Niagara River.

Elements of the Artpark project which began in the spring of 2023 include:

• Installing gateways at the Portage and 4th Street entrances to the park to create a more appropriate sense of arrival and assist with circulation
• Improving the signature "Redbrick Path" running through the park
• Creating a sloped switchback trail that connects the Shoreline Trail to the upper Artpark parking area. This includes a direct scramble that will create an adventurous climb to the overlook on the escarpment A scenic overlook will be constructed at the top of the Scramble, allowing visitors to take in the views of Artpark and the Niagara River Gorge and to provide interpretation about the park and surrounding trails
• Planting 165 trees and 5,400 shrubs – advancing Governor Hochul's goal of planting 25 million trees by 2033
• Transforming the existing 4th Street parking lot into a sustainable parking area and multipurpose space

In addition to $4.4 million in capital funding from New York State Parks, the New York Power Authority and the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation each contributed $3 million, and $1.5 million came from the Niagara River Greenway State Parks Standing Committee.

New York State Parks Commissioner Pro Tem Randy Simons said, "Artpark State Park has long been a destination for the arts, and now it's evolving into a place where visitors can truly unwind, connect with nature, and prioritize their mental well-being. With thoughtful upgrades designed to enhance the overall visitor experience, these projects offer a new way to enjoy the park. I'm deeply grateful to the Wilson Foundation and NYPA for their generous support in bringing this vision to life, one that's sure to become as beloved as Artpark itself."

John R. Koelmel, NYPA Chairman and Western New York resident said, "NYPA is proud to support Governor Hochul's vision, in partnership with New York State Parks and the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation, to enhance the visitor experience at the Artpark and drive tourism and economic development across the Niagara Greenway. Today's announcement, including the Power Authority's $3 million investment, builds on our work with the Niagara River Greenway to increase access to nature and recreational activities, foster sustainable and vibrant communities, and make our parks a must-see destination for visitors coming from New York State and across the world."

J.J. Tighe, Senior Director of Parks and Trails, Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation said, "Artpark State Park is a unique destination that blends natural beauty along with arts and culture. Through our ongoing partnership with New York State Parks and the New York Power Authority we are excited to celebrate the completion of this significant trail connector between Artpark, the Town of Lewiston, and the Niagara River Gorge. The new trail connection will help to further strengthen and connect this cherished community asset with surrounding communities, enhancing both recreational opportunities and regional development."

Dave Wedekindt, President of Artpark & Company said, "Artpark celebrated its 50th anniversary last year, not only giving us a great opportunity to look back on our legacy but also look ahead. This project represents an exciting and significant move forward in transforming the way our thousands of annual patrons and visitors will enjoy the park and its arts and entertainment offerings. Artpark & Company greatly values our partnerships with New York State Parks and Lewiston, and we are excited for the new opportunities these connections to the grounds will bring. Additionally, the support of Empire State Development and installation of supplemental power in the upper park will afford new possibilities for programming and experiences."

New York State Senator Rob Ortt said, "Artpark has long been a unique cultural destination in Western New York, and I am proud to have it as part of the senate district I represent. The completion of this project will greatly enhance the visitor experience and better showcase the park's incredible natural beauty. Thank you to New York State Parks, the New York Power Authority, and the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation for their generous contributions and for making this project possible."

Assemblyman Angelo Morinello said, "There are many new updates being made at Artpark for the coming season to make the visitor experience more exciting and recreational. I believe the New York State Parks, the New York Power Authority and the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation are all to be thanked and congratulated for each contributing $3 million to make this happen."

The project builds on Governor Hochul's efforts to encourage outdoor recreation. The Fiscal Year 2026 Budget includes $200 million for State Parks to invest in and aid the ongoing transformation of New York's flagship parks and support critical infrastructure projects throughout the park system. The Governor's new Unplug and Play initiative also earmarks $100 million for construction and renovation of community centers through the Build Recreational Infrastructure for Communities, Kids and Seniors (NY BRICKS), $67.5 million for the Places for Learning, Activity and Youth Socialization (NY PLAYS) initiative helping New York communities construct new playgrounds and renovate existing playgrounds; and an additional $90 million for the continuation of the Statewide Investment in More Swimming (NY SWIMS) initiative including $50 million for a competitive grant program supporting municipalities in the renovation and construction of swimming facilities and $40 million for other swimming-based investments. 

The Artpark project builds on the Power Authority's ongoing support for the Niagara River Greenway and goal of creating a world class trail and greenspace network in the local community that boosts tourism and economic opportunities for the Western New York region. NYPA's $9 million in annual funding for Niagara River Greenway projects is tied to a relicensing agreement for the continued operation of the Niagara Power Project.

The Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation grant was managed on behalf of State Parks by the Natural Heritage Trust. The Natural Heritage Trust is a non-profit, public-benefit corporation with the mission to receive and administer gifts, grants and contributions to further public programs for parks, recreation, cultural, land and water conservation and historic preservation purposes of the State of New York. The NHT accomplishes its mission by accepting donations, raising funds, and through cooperative programs and projects with its agency partners: New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP), Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and the Department of State (DOS). For more information visit www.naturalheritagetrust.org.

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, and welcomes over 88 million visitors annually. 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. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, the OPRHP Blog or via the OPRHP Newsroom.