The Beat

ADA Accessibility Enhanced at Nation’s First Publicly-Owned State Historic Site

State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Commissioner Erik Kulleseid announced today that pathway, accessibility and parking improvements are completed at Washington’s Headquarters State Historic Site in Newburgh, Orange County.

“This project makes the grounds of the nation’s first publicly-owned historic site more open and accessible to all under the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) to experience a beautiful and historic setting in the Hudson Valley where General Washington made critical decisions that helped shape the new United States,” said Kulleseid. “The headquarters has been state property since 1850, so we are the latest in a line of stewards to preserve this for the coming generations. We are committed to ensuring this inspiring place is welcoming and inclusive to all who visit from America and around the world.” …

June 19 and 26 10:00 AM

Staatsburg, N.Y.  (6/14/20) — The beautiful park land of Mills Norrie State Park was once the setting of three grand Hudson River-front estates.  On June 19 and 26 at 10 a.m., staff from Staatsburgh State Historic Site will lead “Hidden History in the Woods,” a guided hike through the park, exploring the history of the historic estates that were within what is now Mills Norrie State Park: Staatsburgh (Mills Mansion), The Point (Hoyt House) and Stonehurst.  Like so many other estates in the mid-Hudson valley, all three were connected to the powerful Livingston family. …

Partnership with Open Space Institute Adds Two New Trailheads and Parking Areas for Expanded Access to Park's Western Areas 
Support From $5 Million Private Donation

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced the opening of new parking and trail access at Fahnestock State Park and the Appalachian Trail in Putnam County in partnership with the Open Space Institute. 

"These improvements will make it safer and easier for people to reach the western areas of Fahnestock by mitigating the current unsafe practice of visitors parking on the shoulder of busy State Route 301," Governor Cuomo said. "This is another example of how we are building back better after the pandemic, and it will help more people have more options to explore this wonderful park." …

Visitors Reminded to Practice Social Distancing and Respect the Rules

Jones Beach Limited to Air Show Ticket Holders Only for Friday, Saturday and Sunday

New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (State Parks) will open 22 beaches, pools and spraygrounds across the state for swimming on Memorial Day weekend. State Park beaches, campgrounds and picnic areas will return to normal operating capacity this summer. Park visitors are reminded to practice social distancing, respect the rules, and do their part to keep parks and beaches open and safe for everyone.

Offering a New Way to Experience the Outdoors

45 New, Fully Outfitted Sites Offer Easy, Comfortable…

Over 5,000 Volunteers Pitch in at Over 140 Events

Albany, N.Y. – More than 120 New York State parks, historic sites and public lands are hosting volunteer events this weekend, Saturday, May 1 and Sunday, May 2, as part of the tenth annual I Love My Park Day. I Love My Park Day, organized by the statewide nonprofit Parks & Trails New York is a popular statewide event that improves and enhances New York’s beloved outdoor spaces, while bringing visibility to the entire state park system, and its needs. More than 5,000 volunteers are expected to roll up their sleeves on cleanup, improvement, and beautification projects. 

Open May 1 to October 30. Saturdays from 9:30 am to 2pm.

Member hours 9 am to 2 pm. 

Market is open, rain or shine!

Katonah, N.Y. – The farm market is open every Saturday, May - October, on the beautiful and historic John Jay Homestead; hosting local farms, bakers, artisans and food vendors. Products include seasonal fruits and vegetables, meat, cheese, eggs, prepared foods & sauces, baked breads, treats, and so much more for you to enjoy! We offer a convenient and safe locale in our beautiful barnyard for shopping.

Volunteer Events Taking Place at 120 State Parks, Historic Sites and Public Lands Across New York

Online Registration Now Open and Can Be Completed Here

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced that registration is now open for the tenth annual I Love My Park Day, which will be held over the weekend of May 1 and May 2, 2021 at state parks, historic sites and public lands across New York. The event, sponsored by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, Parks & Trails New York and the Department of Environmental Conservation, is a statewide event to enhance parks, historic sites and public lands and raise awareness and visibility to the state outdoor recreation assets and their needs.

Events, Places, Programs and Virtual Content Features Women’s Impacts on State History 

Niagara Falls To Be Illuminated In Suffragist Colors  

New Yorkers are encouraged to celebrate women’s contributions to state history through events, programming and visits to State Parks and historic sites during Women’s History Month in March. 

"During Women’s History Month, we are proud to promote and support the undertold stories of women who helped shape our state's diverse history," said Erik Kulleseid, commissioner of state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. “I welcome visitors to experience our displays, events, virtual programming and online content, as well as through safe, socially-distanced outdoor visits to our sites related to the many roles of women in our common heritage." …

$1 Million Project Will Add Ramp, Renovate ADA Compliant Pathways

Park Remains Open During Construction

The state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation announced today work will start on a $1 million project to enhance disability access at Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms State Park in New York City.

Starting next week and concluding in late spring, work will include a new incline platform lift at the granite Grand Stairway and renovation of two aggregate stone pathways to enhance accessibility.

“This project will ensure that all New Yorkers can enjoy equal access to this important memorial to a New Yorker who was one of our greatest leaders,” said State Parks Commissioner Erik Kulleseid. “At Parks, we value doing what is needed so that our Parks and historic sites are open to all.”

The project is supported by a $250,000 allocation from New York City Council Member Mark Levine and $250,000 grant from State Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright, with the balance supported by NY Works.