Press Release: NYS, July 9, 2004

Governor George E. Pataki today announced more than $1.8 million in Environmental Protection Fund (EPF) grants for nine historic preservation, open space and recreation projects in the Hudson Valley, including six grants totaling $1.1 million in Dutchess County.

"We're proud of our efforts to work with communities across New York to protect open space and preserve our precious natural and historical resources," Governor Pataki said. "These new projects will help protect an important part of the Hudson Valley's heritage and enhance the quality of life in the region by offering additional recreational and educational opportunities for residents and visitors alike."

Governor Pataki was joined by State and local officials in making the announcement at St. Paul's Church in the City of Poughkeepsie. The historic facility, located at 161 Mansion Street, will receive a $350,000 matching grant toward exterior improvements in the main church and tower building.

Senator Steve Saland said, "I am very pleased that Governor Pataki has designated funding to projects in Dutchess County which will enhance the quality of life available in our community. These grants go a long way toward preserving open space as well as increasing the opportunity for the use and enjoyment at these sites. Today's announcement is welcome news as we continue to work to preserve and enhance our many natural and historical treasures."

Senator John J. Bonacic said, "The awarding of these grants earmarked for open space, recreation and historic preservation projects, is extremely important to this region, as the economy relies heavily on tourism. Visitors, residents and future generations will greatly benefit from the improvement and preservation of our State's treasures. I commend Governor Pataki for his on-going support of crucial environmental initiatives such as this."

Senator Vincent Leibell said, "This is one of the most significant environmental acquisitions that has occurred in the Hudson Valley in recent years and I am pleased that Governor Pataki has made such a strong effort towards preserving this unique geological formation. Environmental conservation is a very critical issue for my district and this acquisition illustrates the dedication and commitment that New York State has shown towards protecting our natural resources."

Senator Bill Larkin said, "I am very pleased about this announcement by Governor Pataki whose strong support of our natural resources and scenic attractions in the Hudson Valley continues to directly benefit our area of the state. This funding will help preserve precious open space in Orange County. I look forward to the creation of this future park in the village of Monroe which I am sure will offer local families and visitors many hours of enjoyment and activity."

Senator Nicholas A. Spano said, "Untermyer Park is not only a jewel of the city of Yonkers, it is truly the pride and joy of the lower Hudson Valley. I commend Governor Pataki for his continued commitment to preserving and protecting our environment and park land across the State of New York."

Assemblyman Thomas J. Kirwan said, "The announcement of these grants for our greatest natural resource -- our environment -- is welcome news for all New Yorkers. I commend Governor Pataki for his steadfast leadership in preserving and protecting our environment."

Assemblyman Joel M. Miller said, "As we continue to restore, redevelop and improve Dutchess County, these grants could not have come at a better time. These historical landmarks and Falls View Park represent some of the best aspects of our community. I applaud Governor Pataki's long-term commitment to protecting, preserving and improving our historical and open spaces."

Assemblyman Patrick R. Manning said, "Thanks go out to Governor Pataki for understanding the necessity in preserving the Stone Church property and its impact to the village of Dover Plains as well as the Harlem Valley. It is a unique destination that will allow the people of Dutchess County the opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of open space."

Assemblyman Howard D. Mills said, "Governor Pataki has proven time and again that he is a true friend to the environment and historic preservation. This Environmental Protection Fund grant for the village of Monroe will allow us to take this former racetrack site and preserve it as open space and eventually a lovely park for all to enjoy."

Assemblyman Michael J. Spano said, "This funding is demonstrative of Governor Pataki's dedication to the preservation of New York State's natural and historic resources. Untermyer Park is an intriguing part of the history of Yonkers. This grant will certainly aid in restoring this area to what it was at the peek of its grandeur."

Poughkeepsie Mayor Nancy Cozean said, "The city of Poughkeepsie is very pleased with Governor Pataki's restoration grant for St. Paul's Church.

This church is not only an important historic cornerstone of our community, it has been active in helping to revitalize a diverse neighborhood. This announcement comes as most welcome news as the city of Poughkeepsie celebrates 150 years of incorporation."

St. Paul's Church, incorporated in 1835, is located on the North Side of Poughkeepsie. The church is undertaking the first phase of a long term restoration and preservation program including roofing and drainage improvements; masonry restoration; wood restoration of cornice and dormers; restoration of the clerestory windows at the east and west side of the Nave; and preservation of stained glass windows. With the completion of the work, the church expects to expand its community presence to include programs involving tourism, environmental education, family recreation and informational forums on historic preservation.

Additional projects receiving funding in Dutchess County include: acquisition of the 58-acre Stone Church property in the town of Dover; restoration of the Palatine Farmstead in Rhinebeck; renovation of the carriage house at the Locust Grove, The Samuel Morse Historic Site in the town of Poughkeepsie; preservation of the Carnwath Mansion in the town of Wappinger Falls; and rehabilitation of Falls View Park in the village of Wappinger Falls.

The remaining grants include projects to enhance and restore Untermyer Park in the city of Yonkers, Westchester; a nearly 21-acre open space acquisition in the village of Monroe, Orange County; and improvements to Joseph F. Griebel Memorial Park in the village of Liberty, Sullivan County.

Commissioner Bernadette Castro of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation said, "Through these Environmental Protection Fund awards, Governor Pataki has once again demonstrated an unprecedented commitment to safeguarding the Empire State's remarkable historic landmarks and diverse outdoor resources. By preserving local architectural heritage and expanding public access to these assets, we are improving communities across the state for the benefit of all New Yorkers."

Eileen Hayden, Executive Director of the Dutchess County Historical Society, said, "The Historical Society recognizes the importance of these grants supported by Governor Pataki and State Parks. These projects will enhance the richness of Dutchess County and underscore that our history is our greatest treasure."

Since 1995, Governor Pataki has committed nearly $108 million in EPF, Clean Water/Clean Air Bond Act and Land and Water Conservation Fund support administered by State Parks toward 845 municipal open space, recreation and historic preservation grants to communities across New York State. During that time, $16.8 million has been invested in 110 park and preservation projects in Westchester, Dutchess, Sullivan and Orange counties.

Following is a complete list of the grants announced today:

Dutchess County

St. Paul's Church
$350,000
St. Paul's Church was incorporated in 1835 on the north side of Poughkeepsie. This project is the first phase of a long-term rehabilitation project at the church and includes making the main church and tower weather tight.

Town of Dover
$350,000
The town of Dover, Dutchess Land Conservancy and Friends of Dover Stone Church are partnering to enable the town to acquire and preserve a 58-acre natural area featuring a geological formation and waterfall known as "Stone Church." The acquisition will allow pu

blic access and provide a pedestrian link to historic sites in the village of Dover Plains. Quitman Resource Center for Preservation
$25,841
Quitman Resource Center for Preservation was organized to encourage the preservation of the cultural environment of the Rhinebeck area. This project will include an archeological assessment and restoration of the structural frame of the earliest section of the Palatine Farmstead house. The site will be used as a public study center for Palatine culture and local vernacular architecture.

Locust Grove, Samuel Morse Historic Site
$25,000
The Morse Historic Site is the only national monument dedicated to interpreting the life of Samuel F.B. Morse, the artist and inventor of the telegraph. This project will complete the final phase of the carriage house exterior renovation project, which includes restoration of the deteriorated paint and siding. Once completed, the building will be opened to the public.

Town of Wappinger
$350,000
The three story brick Carnwath Mansion was constructed in the mid 1800's and is a contributing structure in the Wheeler Hill State and National Historic District. The project will include needed repairs to the exterior of the mansion in an effort to restore its grandeur and make it safe for visitors.

Village of Wappingers Falls
$126,375
The project will develop a passive recreational park along Wappinger Creek and its waterfall. Work will include the excavation of embankment and construction of retaining wall, curbing, pavement for ADA access, landscaping, benches, historic reproduction lighting and amenities.

Orange County

Village of Monroe
$250,000
This project will provide funding for the acquisition of a 20.9-acre former racetrack site as open space and potential parkland in the future.

Sullivan County

Village of Liberty
$101,823
The project includes removal of a dilapidated building and replacement with a new bathhouse, rehabilitation of pavilions, picnic tables, walkway, parking area and beach, resulting in a fully handicapped-accessible recreation area.

Westchester County
City of Yonkers
$240,000
The project at Untermyer Park will allow the city of Yonkers to continue its efforts to restore the 24-acre park to its original magnificence. Work to be done around the arcades and amphitheater includes replacement of the pergolas and roof areas; cleaning of the sphinxes, floor mosaics, and limestone pillars and columns; and repair or replacement of limestone walls, seating and stage.