Hudson, NY – Columbia Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) has selected Weston & Sampson, a design, engineering and environmental services firm with offices in Albany, to perform consulting work to determine the feasibility of constructing a multi-use Rail Trail to connect Hudson’s Oakdale Park to the Harlem Valley Rail Trail along the Boston and Albany rail corridor.
Weston & Sampson has extensive experience in planning and designing trail networks across the country, including numerous trails in the Northeast.
CEDC is collaborating with the Columbia Land Conservancy (CLC) to coordinate a study examining a possible trail connecting the Empire State Trail at the City of Hudson to the Harlem Valley Rail Trail in the eastern part of Columbia County. The study will explore parts of a largely abandoned railroad between Hudson and Philmont. Rails on much of what was the “Boston & Albany” railroad were taken up decades ago, but a short spur is in use today.
CEDC was awarded a $12,750 Hudson River Valley Greenway Conservancy Trail Grant last fall to provide a portion of the funds needed to complete the $18,500 study. Additional funding to support the work of the consultant is being provided by CEDC and CLC.
“CEDC is pleased to have been able to secure funding for the study and looks forward to working with CLC, local officials, property owners and stakeholders,” stated CEDC President F. Michael Tucker. “This study will help support a broader vision of an interconnected trail network reaching more communities,” adds Christine Vanderlan, Community Project Manager with CLC, “and we’re glad to partner with CEDC in evaluating the options.”
To find out more, contact Carol Wilber at 518.828.4718 or cwilber@columbiaedc.com.
About CEDC
Columbia Economic Development Corporation (CEDC), the leading economic development organization in Columbia County, is committed to strengthening the county’s tax base through economic development and job creation while maintaining the quality of life so desired by the people who live and work here. For more information about CEDC’s programs and services, visit www.columbiaedc.com.
About CLC
The Columbia Land Conservancy works with the community to conserve the farmland, forests, wildlife habitat and rural character of Columbia County, strengthening connections between people and the land. Since its founding in 1986, the Columbia Land Conservancy has collaborated with partners to preserve the County’s vibrant rural character. For more information, visit www.clctrust.org