Bonacic And Greenway Director Plan Meeting In Saugerties

State Senator John J. Bonacic (R/I/C - Mt. Hope), and the Hudson River Valley Greenway's new Acting Director, Mary Mangione, will meet with local residents and discuss the State's Greenway program, its contributions to our region, and announce funding at the Esopus Bend Nature Preserve in Saugerties on Saturday, August 20, 2005 at 2:30 PM.

Senator Bonacic said, "It is a pleasure to welcome the Greenway's new Director, Mary Mangione, to our Senate District. I know Mary will continue the work of her outstanding predecessor, Carmella Mantello."

The Hudson River Valley Greenway is a model of State and Municipal cooperation in planning and environmental initiatives. It has been so successful that it is being replicated along the Niagara River already. In addition, the Senate passed legislation this year to create an Upper Delaware River Greenway in Delaware, Sullivan, and Orange Counties, and Governor Pataki has proposed the creation of a Greenway along the Erie Canal.

The Esopus Bend Nature Preserve is owned by the Esopus Creek Conservancy. The Preserve is a 156-acre preserve located in Saugerties, less than a mile from the Hudson River. The Preserve borders Barclay Heights and offers hiking and other recreational opportunities. This year, the Esopus Creek Conservancy was awarded a $10,000 Greenway grant. Senator Bonacic, on Saturday, will announce an additional $20,000 in funding for trail development at the Esopus Bend Nature Preserve.

The Senator credited County Legislator Joe Roberti Jr. with seeking the additional funding. "County Legislator Joe Roberti was a strong proponent of this grant funding. It is important that we strike an intelligent balance between conservation and development, and I believe Legislator Roberti recognizes that and works to achieve it," Bonacic said.

Legislator Roberti said, "The Esopus Creek Conservancy's efforts in Saugerties is good for the people of our Town and the region. The Esopus Bend Nature Preserve provides an outstanding recreational opportunity for Saugerties residents. I am pleased that Greenway funds are being used in Saugerties and will continue to urge that more funds be made available for projects like this."

Saugerties Town Supervisor Greg Helsmoortel said, "The people of Saugerties recognize that we must enhance and preserve our recreational spaces. The Town was pleased to support the Esopus Creek Conservancy's Greenway grant application. I will continue to do all I can to promote this project as we move Saugerties forward."

Village of Saugerties Mayor Bob Yerrick said, "The Esopus Bend Nature Preserve is a great asset for the people of Saugerties. Many Village residents have told me they are pleased that this Preserve is being made available for public use and I look forward to its continued success."

The formal funding announcement will take place at 2:30 PM at the Shady Lane entrance of the Esopus Bend Nature Preserve.

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