The Hudson River is no doubt why theTown of Stuyvesant began and thrived through the early days. In recent years we have witnessed the River becoming much more of a tourist attraction, providing many with recreational opportunities. Maintaining and gaining access to the 9 miles of shoreline we enjoy here in town has been a goal for many years. Our town’s Comprehensive Plan speaks volumes about the importance of the River and our desire to have better access. We have gained considerable amenities at Ice House road location over the years, and now NYSDEC is working at Ferry Road location on an improved shoreline stabilization project that will provide us with a new fishing pier this Spring.

The major entity separating us from the River is the Railroad. While it is no doubt true that the development of the railroad brought prosperity to the town and the fact that the railroad exists today has helped maintain nature waterfront by keeping other development out, it does present its challenges to river access. The Rail Road has recently begun talks of installing fences in areas to channel pedestrian traffic to the at grade crossing that exist here in town. To help develop a response to the concerns of these fences limiting access or restricting views enjoyed by many, Scenic Hudson has developed an interactive mapping program that allows residents to comment on their personal use of the access points we enjoy or indicate unknown access points that have not been mapped.

I would encourage everyone to visit Hudson River Access and comment on their favorite river access points. Compiled, this information will be valuable to us locally and can become very good information that will be submitted to State agencies who have to determine the importance of river access, and approve the Railroad's plan for increased safety.

Ron Knott