Senator Bonacic Announces $100,000 Grant for the Town of Gardiner

(Middletown, NY)- State Senator John J. Bonacic (R/C/I-Mt. Hope) is pleased to announce that the Town of Gardiner has been awarded a $100,000 grant for the replacement of the Forest Glen Bridge on the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail. The grant was secured through the State and Municipal Facilities Program, funding for which was appropriated in the 2017-2018 State Budget.

The grant will be used to remove the existing decking, railroad ties and fencing on the Forest Glen Bridge. Additionally it will be used to, repair the concrete abutments; install new concrete decking for longer life; install safety railing on both sides of the bridge; and remove trees within the abutments to prevent pushing out of abutments. The grant will also be used to repair trail erosion and trim trees along the bridge.

“The Wallkill Valley Rail Trail is an important recreational cornerstone of Ulster County and the Town of Gardiner,” said Senator Bonacic. “I’m pleased to have been able to help secure this grant which will increase the quality of life for the Town of Gardiner’s residents and also save local taxpayers money.”

Said Town of Gardiner Supervisor Marybeth Majestic, "I want to thank Senator Bonacic for his continued advocacy on behalf of the Town of Gardiner and its residents. The upgrades to the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail will ensure that the residents of our town and visitors will have access to great recreational opportunities for years to come. We are fortunate to have such a dedicated representative in the Senate and for that I am grateful.”