Harlem Valley Rail Trail
Since the mid-1980s, the Harlem Valley Rail Trail Association (HVRTA) has dreamed of a 46-mile rail trail in the Harlem Valley and Taconic Hills of eastern New York. The first segment of the trail opened in 1996. Since then, the trail has grown in 1997, 2000 and 2005. Another eight miles of abandoned rail bed are in preliminary development stages, and most of another 23 miles have been acquired in Columbia County that will eventually lead the trail north into the Village of Chatham.
In support of this effort, CLC, in conjunction with the HVRTA, has received a planning and design grant from the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation for $121,965. The grant, which requires a $40,655 matching contribution from the local communities, will fund the design and construction plans for an additional five-mile section of the trail from the current terminus in Copake Falls through the hamlet of Hillsdale.
Now citizens in the towns of Copake and Hillsdale have formed the Copake Hillsdale Rail Trail Alliance to raise funds for the extension of the trail through the corridor in their towns, in partnership with the HVRTA and CLC. We have already begun to raise the $40,655 local matching contributions from donations from enthusiastic community members and grants from community foundations.
Based on the success of the trail in Millerton, where it has sparked the growth of tourism as well as new stores and restaurants, Hillsdale and Copake community members anticipate that the five-mile extension of the Harlem Valley Rail Trail will be a boon to the local economy and add to the character of their communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the grant awarded to CLC and not the rail trail association?
CLC was the official applicant to the state as it has the staff to administer a grant of this complexity.
Why are the checks being made out to CLC?
As the official applicant, CLC has the responsibility for documenting the local match. Also, as a 501-(c)3 organization, donations to CLC will be tax-deductible.
What is happening now?
Funds are being raised by the Copake Hillsdale Rail Trail Alliance and the Harlem Valley Rail Trail Association for both planning and construction of the extension.
Is the land needed for the project owned by the partners?
New York State owns a substantial amount of the former rail bed land. The design study will determine the most feasible route, in part considering the land acquisition needs. The project will not take land using eminent domain. All land will be acquired from willing sellers.
How will the trail extension from Copake Falls to Hillsdale cross Route 22?
The best location and means for crossing Route 22 will be determined during the design study.
How long will design and construction planning take?
The project will likely take 12 to 18 months.
How much will construstion of the trail cost?
The construction plans will allow us determination of what the project is going to cost. The start of construction will depend on the availability of federal funding.
How long will construction take?
Actual construction should progress relative rapidly. It will take months, not years, after the construction launch date based on the experience building other segments of the rail trail.
Will we be able to walk the trail before completion?
After land is acquired, insurance is in place and the trail is cleared, it is likely walkers will be welcomed on the trail.
Who is responsible for the environmental review?
As the ‘lead agency’ the State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation is responsible for conducting the environmental review and securing permits.
Will both municipalities, Hillsdale and Copake, cooperate with this initiative?
The Town Boards of both towns signed letters of support for the grant indicating they strongly backed the rail trail extension. Additionally, both the Hillsdale Hamlet Plan and the Town of Copake Draft Comprehensive have identified the extension of the rail trail as a priority.