Governor Signs Bonacic Legislation Expanding Scenic Byway

Legislation sponsored by State Senator John Bonacic and Assemblyman Kevin Cahill, to expand the Shawangunk Mountain Scenic Byway, has been signed into law by Governor David Paterson.

             There are 19 Scenic Byways in the State.  “Driving, biking, or hiking, the Shawangunk Mountains Scenic Byway is clearly a top choice for anyone who wants to see New York’s most beautiful land,” Senator Bonacic said.

             The expanded Byway now includes the road beginning at the intersection of State Route 295 and Routes 44/55 to the intersection of State Route 208 in Ireland Corners, all in the Town of Gardiner.   The Byway was originally created in 2006.  Al Wegener has served as the Executive Director of the Byway since its founding and was the driving force behind its creation.

             The Byway is a regional initiative taking in communities in both Ulster and Orange Counties including Shawangunk, Gardiner, Wawarsing, Rochester, New Paltz, Crawford, and Rosendale.  “The word ‘regionalism’ is tossed about a lot.  However, the Shawangunk Mountain Scenic Byway is truly a regional partnership.  It promotes tourism, better planning, and helps tell the story of New York’s Hudson Valley,” concluded Senator Bonacic.

             For more information on the Shawangunk Mountain Scenic Byway visit www.MtnScenicByway.org.   You can also find the Scenic Byway on www.Facebook.com.

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