ARKVILLE — The Catskill Center for Conservation and Development has been awarded $62,467 through the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s Catskill Park Community Smart Growth Grant Program to improve accessibility at the Catskills Visitor Center.
Supported through New York State’s Environmental Protection Fund (EPF), the grant will fund a new ADA-accessible connector trail system at the Catskills Visitor Center, including a roughly 400-foot trail west of the building and another 160-foot trail to the east. Together, these trail sections will better connect the Visitor Center building and sidewalk to the accessible Interpretive Loop Trail, creating a safer, more direct route for visitors of all abilities. New interpretive signage will also be installed along these trails to guide and educate visitors while exploring the site.
Operated by the Catskill Center in partnership with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, the Catskills Visitor Center is the only official visitor center for the Catskill Park and is designated as a DEC Accessible Recreation Destination. The site welcomes tens of thousands of visitors each year and features 1.5 miles of walking trails, exhibits and community programming, wildlife viewing opportunities, and the 80-foot Upper Esopus Fire Tower.
“The Catskills Visitor Center is often where people begin their experience in the Catskills, and this project will help ensure that more people can do so safely, comfortably, and independently,” said Jeff Senterman, Catskill Center Executive Director. “We are grateful to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and to Governor Hochul for recognizing the importance of accessibility, interpretation, and thoughtful recreation in the Catskills.”
In announcing the awards, DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, “The Catskill Park is home to vibrant communities that play a crucial role in protecting globally significant landscapes. DEC’s Smart Growth grants represent a vital investment in our communities, fostering sustainable development, economic prosperity, and enhanced quality of life for all New Yorkers, while safeguarding the natural resources that make the Catskills such a special place to live, work, and visit.”
The Catskill Park Community Smart Growth Grant Program supports projects that advance environmental protection, economic vitality, and community livability within the Catskill Park. The eight grants announced this year support projects focused on recreation, accessibility, housing, environmental protection, and sustainable economic growth across the Catskill region.
