ADIRONDACKS, NY (April 11, 2018)—Building on early groundwork and planning by the Open Space Institute (OSI), a groundbreaking event was held today for a new “Gateway to the Adirondacks” tourism hub, including a campground, equestrian trails, day use area and a new brewing facility for Paradox Brewery. OSI, local partners, and state officials gathered to celebrate the plan, which will link local and regional outdoor recreation experiences in Adirondack Park, bolster tourism, and strengthen the North Country’s regional economy.
The new, public facility will be located at the site of the former Frontier Town theme park in the town of North Hudson and is a signature project of the Governor Andrew Cuomo’s “Gateway to the Adirondacks” tourism hub and part of the state’s Adventure NY initiative to enhance access to state lands and connect New Yorkers to nature and the outdoors. An estimated $25 million in public/private resources have been committed to the project to date.
“The Adirondack Gateway project will improve public access, expand recreational opportunities and support local economies in the heart of the Adirondacks, and OSI is proud to have played an early, pivotal role in taking the idea from concept to reality,” said Kim Elliman, Open Space Institute's president and CEO. “Our involvement in the Gateway project builds on 25 years of land conservation in the Adirondacks, during which we have protected more than 28,000 acres to support the region's cultural and natural heritage."
“This development will create a unique, world-class campground for New Yorkers and visitors alike to enjoy,” Governor Cuomo said. “This Gateway to the Adirondacks will serve as a central point for all of the area's recreations, significantly benefitting the local community and the region's tourism industry.”
The idea for the campground began when OSI supported the Upper Hudson Recreation Hub Master Plan. New York State and OSI, working in collaboration with five neighboring Adirondack towns to create a blueprint for a new recreation hub that would improve local amenities, expand access, and draw increased visitors to the park.
The all-season, day-use area is expected to be open this fall. The Frontier Town Campground, Equestrian and Day Use Area are anticipated to be fully operational by next summer.