Plans unveiled for eco-friendly management of the property
NEW PALTZ, NY (May 24, 2018)— The Open Space Institute (OSI) today announced the official opening of the first section of its River-to-Ridge Trail in New Paltz. The completed three-quarter of a mile-long section of the trail runs along the Wallkill River from the Carmine Liberta Bridge to Springtown Road. In addition to announcing the partial trail opening, OSI also outlined a number of steps it is taking to improve the ecology in the area, as well as a new partnership that will allow for bicycle rentals at the trail.
“The Open Space Institute is excited to open the river section of the River-to-Ridge Trail to New Paltz families, residents, and visitors in time for summer. The trail will increase public access to this irreplaceable scenic, agricultural, and recreational landscape,” said Kim Elliman, president and CEO of OSI. “Thanks to the Mohonk Preserve, the Village of New Paltz, the Town of New Paltz, and Ulster County for their partnership on this project and to the surrounding community for their continuing patience and enthusiasm for the trail.”
When fully constructed, the six-mile long River-to-Ridge loop trail will connect the Village of New Paltz to the protected lands on the Shawangunk Ridge. The $1.7 million trail is being constructed by OSI, with support of the Butler Conservation Fund, for public use and enjoyment.
The trail will span OSI and Mohonk Preserve lands as it winds through the gentle terrain at the base of the ridge. The section west of Springtown Road to Butterville Road remains under construction, with an estimated completion date of September 2018.