Items tagged with 'parks'
Talking about the future of Lincoln Park
You could understand if Albany's Lincoln Park feels a little left out.
Washington Park gets the events, the tulips, the Instagram pics, the fame. It's the older sibling, the first born, the one who gets all the praise and attention.
Meanwhile, Lincoln Park stands not that far away, roughly the same size, with a loved-but-leaky pool, some sports fields, and an overgrown ravine. It hasn't had any sort of official, overall planning done for it in more than a century.
That's now changing. The city of Albany has started a process to develop a master plan for Lincoln Park. And it's brought in a consulting firm, Stimson, to help things along.
"It's like no other park in Albany and it's really of a huge scale," said Stimson's Glen Valentine at a public meeting to gather input this week at Hackett Middle School. "And we hope that this will lead to those kind of big ideas because people aren't afraid in this forum to speak whatever they want to do, whatever they think is interesting."
Here's an overview of the ideas that have bubbled up so far...
A call for ideas for Rensselaer Riverfront Park
One of the murals in Rensselaer's Riverfront Park.
The city of Rensselaer is looking to make some improvements to its Riverfront Park -- and it's hoping you have some ideas.
There's a quick online survey asking people about their preferences for updated park amenities such as new lighting, pathways, benches, or even the many murals that are around the park. The survey will be collecting responses through November 15. (There are also physical copies of the survey at City Hall and the Rensselaer Public Library.)
Ketura Vics -- the assistant director of planning and development for Rensselaer -- said the city has $125,000 state grant via Assembly member John McDonald to pay for improvements, so it wants to get a sense of what's important to people. And while the city won't be able to make every suggested improvement -- that money will only go so far -- the feedback will also allow the city to plan for the future.
Speaking of the future... Rensselaer recently officially opened a new esplanade just a bit north of Riverfront Park. And Vics said via email the city is thinking about the bigger picture here: "As the city continues to grow and develop, we hope to have trails all along the waterfront and through the city that are connected via 'complete street' designs in order to improve access and mobility throughout our small, linear city."
Albany-Rensselaer
We've mentioned this a few times before, but it's worth saying again: The cities of Albany and Rensselaer could both benefit from a better pedestrian/bike/whatever connection across the river.
The long past, leaky present, and uncertain future of the Lincoln Park Pool
Albany's Lincoln Park Pool will close out its current season on Labor Day. It's the 86th season the pool has been open as a place for people from the city and beyond to splash around, learn to swim, cool off, and relax on a summer day.
It's a landmark space. And it's near the end of its current life.
The pool first opened in 1931 and all those years are showing. It has cracked surfaces, operates below its designed capacity, and doesn't measure up to modern codes. Most notably, the pool simply struggles to hold water, leaking as much as 500,000 gallons a day.
That condition prompted a consultant hired by the city to conclude last fall that the Lincoln Park Pool has reached the end of its useful life and should be completely replaced.
The price tag for that? Maybe as much as $12 million.
Crossing the Black Bridge
We finally got a chance to check out the new paved path in Green Island that leads up to the southern end of the Black Bridge. And short story short: it's nice.
The Black Bridge is worth checking out sometime if you haven't already. There's a small parking lot at the end of Cannon Street on the Green Island side, and it's a short pedal from downtown Troy via the Green Island Bridge.
The bridge connects Green Island and Van Schaick Island in Cohoes across one of the Mohawk River's curling paths into the Hudson River. And it's part of a multi-use path that connects Green Island, Van Schaick Island, Peebles Island, and Waterford. The roughly two-mile corridor -- the Delaware Ave path in Cohoes -- is a nice walk or pedal as you pass by the fairways of the Van Schaick Island Country Club, the Van Schaick Mansion, a bunch of new residential developments in Cohoes, the old Matton Shipyard, cross the bridge onto the northern end of Peebles Island, and then cross another bridge over to Waterford with a view of the locks.
The setting is beautiful -- and a little bit wild. Late Sunday afternoon we glided past a deer and saw a bald eagle from the Black Bridge.
Another reason to get -- and hold on to -- an Empire Pass for state parks
Good to know: You can save your Empire Pass card, use it again in future seasons, and get a discount.
State Parks blurbage:
Did you know the card you purchased for 2018 is renewable? Beginning in mid-November, you will be able to renew your existing Empire Pass card online for the 2019 season. This feature will allow you to keep your card year after year with the option to renew for 1 year, 3 years or 5 years!
Why should I renew? Convenience and cost savings! A discount rate will be applied to your renewed card and you won't need to wait for your new card in the mail or wait on line at the Park.
What do I need to renew when it becomes available? Access to the internet, your physical card, the number printed on the front and your email address are what you will need to complete the process online.
This renewal process isn't available just yet. State Parks says it will start mid-November at parks.ny.gov.
Empire Pass?
The Empire Pass is basically a season pass for New York State parks that offers unlimited admission for $80 for a calendar year. If you're a frequent state park visitor -- say, 8-10 times or more during seasons with admission fees -- it's the cheapest and easiest way to pay the admission fee. And the card can be shared among family members. (The cards have replaced the old stickers.)
Also: Keep an eye out for mid-winter sales on the Empire Pass. In years past, State Parks has offered the Empire Pass at a discount. It was $65 this past winter, which lowers the break-even number of park visits.
Empire Pass Card 2018 sale extended
New York State Parks has extended the discount on the 2018 Empire Pass Card -- the entry passes will now be available for $65 until April 8 (a week longer than previously announced). After that the price will be $80.
The Empire Pass allows unlimited day-use vehicle entry at state parks, preserves, and other similar sites. Pass blurbage:
Currently available at your nearest state park and online, the 2018 Empire Pass Card is a better and more cost-effective way to enjoy the more than 250 individual state parks, historic sites, recreational trails, boat launches and more. The Empire Pass Card is a wallet-sized plastic card that can be shared among family members including parents, grandparents, caregivers and more. It is presented upon vehicle entry and includes QR code and embedded chip technology to allow for easier park access at select facilities.
The former Empire Pass decal, which was not shareable and required attachment to one vehicle, will no longer be offered. All 2017 Empire Pass Decals will be accepted through their expiration on March 31, 2018.
State Park says it's extended the sale so people visiting parks during spring break next week can also get in on the discount. You can also buy the pass online.
Summer vehicle admission at, say, Grafton Lakes State Park is $8. So if you're going to a state park 8 or more times in a summer, the pass could be the way to go for you -- especially at the discounted price.
I Love My Park Day
By the way: I Love My Park Day is coming up in May, and registration is open for the various events at sites around the state.
Empire Pass Card 2018 sale
New York State parks are currently on sale.
OK, to be more specific, passes to New York State parks are now on sale. The 2018 Empire Pass Card is now available for $65 online through March 31, 2018. After that it will be $80.
State parks press release blurbage (emphasis added):
[The] Empire Pass Card is a better and more cost effective way to enjoy the more than 250 individual state parks, historic sites, recreational trails, boat launches and more. The Empire Pass Card is a wallet-sized plastic card that can be shared among family members including parents, grandparents, caregivers and more. It is presented upon vehicle entry and includes QR code and embedded chip technology to allow for easier park access at select facilities. ...
As a special note, those wishing to give the gift of the outdoors this year should order their new specially priced 2018 Empire Pass Card by Friday December 8 to ensure delivery in time for the holidays.
The former Empire Pass decal, which was not shareable and required attachment to one vehicle, will no longer be offered. All 2017 Empire Pass Decals will be accepted through their expiration on March 31, 2018.
If you're a frequent New York State Park visitor the Empire Pass -- and it's unlimited admission -- has been the most economical option for paying entrance fees. If you go to a park 8-10 times during seasons with admission fees, you've pretty much paid for the pass and admission after that is free.
Checking out the new Albany skate park
Check it out: The skate park in Albany's Washington Park is now open. Construction just finished up, and Friday afternoon there were a bunch skaters trying it out.
Here are a bunch of photos and a few bits...
Gawking at the new Five Rivers visitor center
The new $8.9 million visitor center is now officially open at the Five Rivers Environmental Education Center in Delmar. The "green" building includes interactive exhibits, classrooms, multipurpose space, restrooms, and staff offices. It's open Monday through Saturday 9 am to 4:30 pm.
The state Department of Environmental Conservation has an Outdoor Day event there this Saturday from 10 am to 3 pm with activities such as animal demonstrations and guided walks.
Here's a look around the new building...
Checking out the new Thacher Park Center
The new visitor center at Thacher State Park -- the aptly-named Thacher Park Center -- officially opened Thursday.
The $4.3 million, 8,240-square-foot project is located near the trailhead of the Indian Ladder Trail. Amenities blurbage:
+ A breathtaking entrance hall, interactive exhibits, small theater and model bat cave, all highlighting the park's history and fossil-rich geology;
+ The 1,340-square-foot "Helderberg Room" that can be reserved for community events and family gatherings;
+ An outdoor observation deck and patio overlooking the escarpment where visitors can take in the park's dramatic views;
+ A well-appointed warming area featuring a fireplace faced with fossil-bearing stone from the escarpment;
+ Two new stone and timber picnic pavilions;
+ Park offices, public restrooms and a welcome information desk to help visitors explore the park's expansive trail network and other features. The center is open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The new center is part of a larger plan for upgrades at the Thacher that the state has been working on for years.
Paul Gallo was there Thursday and took a bunch of photos for us (Thanks, Paul!), so let's have a look at the new place...
Empire Pass, now in card form
If you're a frequent New York State Park visitor the Empire Pass has been the most economical option for paying entrance fees -- $65 gets you unlimited entry for the year. So, anything past your 8th or 9th visit is free admission.
The downside: It has to be affixed to a car window.
Now there's a new option: The Empire Pass Card, which can be shared among members of a household and doesn't have to be stuck on a vehicle. The card is $80. Blurbage:
A new wallet-sized Empire Pass Card that can be shared within a household is now available. It's a family-friendly alternative to the traditional window decal, and not assigned to a specific vehicle. The new card can be used by parents, grandparents, caregivers and others.
The card is valid through December 31 of the year it's purchased. Here's the brochure with more info. And there's ordering info at that first link above (you can buy it online).
The Empire Pass stickers are still available, and they're still $65.
Multiple years
New York State Parks also offers multi-year cards -- $205 for three years, and $320 for five years.
There's also a lifetime Empire Pass for $750.
Thacher Climbing Coalition
Thacher State Park doesn't currently allow rock climbing -- but it will eventually, possibly not far in the future. And a group called the Thacher Climbing Coalition is working toward that day. From the group's about page:
The Thacher Climbing Coalition promotes the enjoyment and protection of our natural cliff lands on the Helderberg Escarpment by way of rock and ice climbing. The organization is supported by climbers and others who believe that these natural highland areas have intrinsic worth, provide spiritual renewal, healthy exciting physical challenge, economic and ecological health for our region. Successful conservation depends on active engagement with the outdoors and we encourage climbers to join the ranks of other outdoor users in the region in support of land protection. We believe that climbing is a healthy, low-impact activity that deserves a place in parks and we strive to open and maintain access for climbers on the Escarpment.
A plan to allow rock climbing in Thacher Park has been in the works since at least 2013 when the state included the provision in the park's master plan. And last year, the state said it would be working with TCC on the effort.
Here's a TCC page with an overview of the current situation (which, to repeat, does not currently allow climbing).
Trail day: The Thacher Climbing Coalition has a trail day planned for this Saturday, September 24 for volunteers to work on building the climbers' trail. That link includes info about how to sign up and what to bring.
Noted: TCC's website includes a "Thacher not Thatcher" page.
Earlier on AOA:
+ Planning for the future of Thacher and Thompson's Lake State Parks
+ Thacher Park's namesake
Another look at the planned Thacher State Park visitors center
The visitors center will be located near the overlook.
The Cuomo admin announced the groundbreaking of the $3.8 million Thacher State Park visitors center today. Here are a few large-format renderings. A state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation spokesman tells us the project is planned to be ready in summer 2016.
Press release blurbage:
The center, to be set next to the trailhead and picnic area for the popular Indian Ladder Trail, will introduce visitors to new park features, including an expanded trail network, as well as new opportunities for biking, rock climbing, caving, environmental education and an new high-ropes adventure course. The activities are part of the plan announced by the Governor to reinvigorate the park.
The 8,240-square-foot Thacher Park Visitor Center will include:
+ a welcome information desk to help visitors explore the park's expansive trail network and other features;
+ a grand lobby and exhibit area to highlight the park's fossil-rich geological history;
+ a 1,340-square-foot multipurpose gathering space that can be reserved for special events such as weddings and family reunions;
+ public restrooms and park offices; and
+ an outdoor patio overlooking the escarpment where visitors can take in the park's dramatic views.
We didn't notice much that was new in the announcement -- it's mostly a reiteration of the plans already in place.
Dan Keefe, deputy public information officers for the state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, told us today that the new mountain biking skills course and expanded caving access are on track to be ready this summer. (Details on the planned ropes course are still being worked out with the contractor.)
One other thing: There are now specific details about the campaign to raise $1 million from private sources for exhibits and amenities at the new visitors center. The Open Space Institute is heading up the campaign -- and the website for it includes some additional details about the center (as well as how to donate).
images: NYS OPRHP
The future of the Tivoli Lake Preserve
Tivoli Lake this week. (Here's a panorama photo.)
The city of Albany is more than three centuries old, so over the years some things are bound to be overlooked or lost in the shuffle. But an 80-acre nature preserve?
Yeah, that sort of happened.
"Tivoli Preserve has the potential to really be an attraction, and also a refuge, that is recognized by people within the city of Albany as an asset to the city. Right now, that's not true," Kate Lawrence, the city of Albany's sustainability planner, told us this week. "A lot of people don't know it exists. And the people who do know it exists avoid it because they don't know what's in there, because it's not very clear what the conditions are in there. Or it's a secret that only a few people can enjoy."
But there's a plan mapping out a possible new future for Albany's Tivoli Lake Preserve.
A few more bits about the planned upgrades at Thacher State Park
Here's a larger, uncropped version. / image: NYS OPRHP
The rendering above is the latest version of the new visitor center planned for Thacher Park State Park. It was released this week as part of the announcement of the Cuomo admin's NY Parks 2020 plan, which proposes to spend about $900 million on upgrades for state parks.
The plan reiterates some of the already-planned new amenities for Thacher Park, including the $3.8 million visitors center which will overlook "the most dramatic views in the region." Dan Keefe, deputy public information officers for the state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, says there isn't a target completion date for the visitors center yet. But planning is already in progress for exhibits inside the center, and an effort to raise private money to pay for those exhibits will start this spring.
Thacher is also in line for new facilities for mountain biking, caving, and a high ropes course. Keefe says those are expected to be ready for this summer. And park officials will be working with the Thacher Climbing Coalition to identify rock climbing locations after the snow melts.
Other state parks in the region are also slated for upgrades as part of NY Parks 2020 (pdf). Among those plans: facilities improvements for Spa State Park, possibly adding the former Mt. McGregor prison forestland to Moreau Lake State Park, and the digitization of a collections at at Peebles Island. [Daily Gazette] [TU] [Troy Record]
Earlier on AOA:
+ Funding for new Thacher Park visitor center
+ A master plan for Thacher State Park
Saratoga National Historic Park
This year I've been visiting local state parks. Today we are switching it up with a National Park located in Saratoga County.
Much of Saratoga National Historic Park is centered around its history as the site of two major Revolutionary War battles, making it an excellent stop for history buffs.
But the views and distinctive touring route makes this park worth a visit even if social studies was never your thing.
Schodack Island State Park
This summer I'm visiting local parks to bring the scoop on each one to you. Today I'm headed north to Hudson Crossing Park. I've also already visited Hudson Crossing, Cherry Plain, Moreau Lake, Grafton Lakes, and Peebles Island.
If you've never been to Schodack Island State Park, you are definitely missing out. It is an incredibly peaceful spot right on the Hudson River, and the grounds are meticulously cared for. It also scores big bonus points because it doesn't charge an entrance fee during the week, making it a great destination for families and visitors during the week.
Hudson Crossing Park
This summer I'm visiting local parks to bring the scoop on each one to you. Today I'm headed north to Hudson Crossing Park. I've also already visited Cherry Plain, Moreau Lake, Grafton Lakes, and Peebles Island.
Hudson Crossing Park is a little bit different from the other destinations I've visited this summer. First off, it's not a State Park and subsequently has no admission fee. Also, it's specifically focused around environmental responsibility, and you can see evidence of that all around the park.
It may not have as many amenities as other locations, but the beautiful setting and unique eco touches make it worth a stop.
Cherry Plain State Park
Cherry Plain State Park -- worth the trip
This summer I'm visiting local state parks and getting the scoop on each one. Today I'm stopping at Cherry Plain State Park. I've also already visited Moreau Lake, Grafton Lakes, and Peebles Island.
I first heard of Cherry Plain State Park as an ideal place to go to avoid the crowds, while still getting a day of swimming in. The park, situated quite a distance from metro areas, certainly does deliver on the promise of peace and personal space.
Moreau Lake State Park
This summer I'm visiting local state parks and sharing the scoop on each one. I've already visited Grafton Lakes State Park and Peebles Island. Today I venture a little farther north with a visit to Moreau Lake State Park.
Located at the northern edge of the Capital Region, Moreau Lake State Park is going to be a bit more of a drive for some people, but it's worth a visit. The day use amenities are not unique, but the size and natural setting of the park is.
Moreau Lake State Park is certainly one of the more beautiful local state parks, and there's lots of space to explore.
Grafton Lakes State Park
I'm visiting local state parks this spring and summer and will be sharing the best parts of each spot. Last time it was Peebles Island. Today, we talk Grafton Lakes.
Grafton Lakes is the reason why I fell in love with New York State parks. While I've been impressed with some other spots, Grafton Lakes has the closest thing in this area to a real beach. That's not to mention the trails, boating, picnicking, and basically any other outdoor activity you can think of...
Peebles Island State Park
I really love state parks. As an apartment dweller, I have limited access to my own outdoors space and rely on parks and natural spaces to get sun and fresh air. Over the next few months I'm going to be sharing my favorite parks around the region, and highlighting the best parts of each spot.
Imagine there was a natural retreat with walking paths, wildlife, barbecue pits, and peaceful rivers just a few minutes from your house.
Okay, you can stop imagining now, because Peebles Island State Park is it. And if you're not already taking advantage of this spot, then you're missing out.
A master plan for Thacher State Park
"This magnificent panorama has no parallel in the capital district."
The Cuomo admin released the final master plan for John Boyd Thacher and Thompson's Lake State Parks this week. The plan, which follows a draft plan from earlier this year, is like a road map for the future direction of the parks, identifying new uses and facility upgrades along with a general sense of how those developments are prioritized.
A quick scan of the highlights are after the jump. They include: a merger of the two parks, a redesigned main park area, rock climbing, cave access, mountain biking, expanded beach area, and new bathrooms.
Planning for the future of Thacher and Thompson's Lake State Parks
As the draft plan notes: Thacher Park's "magnificent panorama has no parallel in the capital district."
The state Office of Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation is currently in the process of planning a bunch of upgrades for John Boyd Thacher and Thompson's Lake State Parks.
The draft plan is wide ranging, from relatively straightforward and much-needed stuff (like new bathrooms) to a redesign of the some of the park's most-used areas. Also part of the proposed plan: officially combining Thacher and Thompson's Lake into one park. A lot of the changes wouldn't happen overnight -- the plan's timeline could extend as long as 15 years. And, of course, everything is subject to the availability of funding.
There's a public hearing on the proposed master plan for the parks this Thursday (August 1) at the New Scotland town hall at 7 pm.
The planning docs are posted online. We read them through them this afternoon and pulled a few quick-scan highlights.
Public comments for Thacher Park, Thompson's Lake
The state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation is looking for public comment as it develops a new master plan John Boyd Thacher and Thompson's Lake State Parks:
Park master plans are used by the agency to analyze and improve park facilities and provide park patrons with a satisfying experience of the park's recreation and natural resources. The plan will review the current conditions at the park and make recommendations for improvement to existing facilities as well as new facilities to meet patron needs.
There's an open house at the Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center on Saturday, April 28 from 9 am - 5 pm -- park and agency staff will be there to discuss park issues and gather public input.
When Thacher Park was closed temporarily a few years ago because of cuts, there was a huge outpouring of public support for the park.
Hey, maybe this it the chance to push for getting the old pool there (of which many people apparently have fond memories) fixed re-built and re-opened.
(Thanks, Mary Beth!)
Earlier on AOA:
+ Thacher Park's namesake
+ The mystery at Hang Glider Cliff
+ Camping at Thompson's Lake State Park
+ Hiking the Indian Ladder Trail
photo: Kathie Dello
... said KGB about Drawing: What's something that brought you joy this year?