The Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway Established

ALBANY, 11/23/15 – State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I- Oneonta) today announced legislation he sponsored establishing the Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway has been signed into law by Governor Cuomo.  Senator Seward’s bill (S.5687) adds portions of New York State Routes 28, 42, and 214 in Delaware and Ulster counties to the New York State Scenic Byways System.

“The Catskill Mountains and the communities that surround them are filled with history and natural beauty,” said Senator Seward.  “The scenic byway designation will help draw more travelers to the Catskills increasing tourism and further enhancing the local economy.  I also believe, by adding the Catskills, the scenic byway system as a whole increases in value and prestige.”

The Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway will be comprised of 65 miles primarily along New York State Route 28, with short extensions along New York State Routes 42 and 214 through the heart of the central Catskills.  The route links the hamlets of Phoenicia and Pine Hill, the villages of Fleischmanns and Margaretville, and the towns of Olive, Shandaken, Middletown, and Andes.

The Central Catskills Collaborative applied for the designation after establishing a long-term vision for the scenic byway and adopting a number of recommendations to fully realize all of the benefits that accompany byway designation.

The legislature established the scenic byway program in 1992 to create a statewide system of scenic byways and to coordinate the activities of state agencies, local governments, and not-for-profit organizations into one comprehensive program.  Benefits for byway communities include increased tourism promotion, improved traveler and community services, and broadened appreciation of the state’s historic and natural resources.

“Preserving, promoting, and enhancing the Catskills will expose more people to the natural wonders of our region and boost economic opportunities locally.  I am extremely pleased to partner with the Central Catskills Collaborative and local officials in advancing legislation finalizing the byway designation and look forward to seeing the new scenic byway signs as I travel through the Catskills,” Seward concluded.

Assemblyman Cahill (A.7954) sponsored companion legislation in the state assembly.

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