Senator Gallivan Secures State Grant for Knox Farm State Park
Jim Ranney
April 3, 2017
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ISSUE:
- Parks & recreation
Senator Patrick M. Gallivan (R-C-I, Elma) announces a $325,000 state grant will help pay for badly needed renovations at Knox Farm State Park in East Aurora. The project includes replacement of the roof on the historic main house and improved park access and visitor parking. The grant is funded through the State and Municipal Facilities Program of the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY) and will be administered by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.
“Knox Farm is a unique jewel within our state park system and attracts thousands of visitors every year,” Gallivan said. “The renovations will allow Knox Farm to better accommodate patrons, improve operations and help preserve the historic nature of the property.”
Renovations include removal and replacement of the 7,000 square foot slate roof on the mansion at the park. Widespread leaking has caused interior damage to the property. Funding will also support construction of a two-way entry/exit road to replace the current one-way access road. Installation of a newly paved ADA parking facility and expanded gravel parking lot is also planned. Work is scheduled to begin soon.
“Knox Farm State Park is a special place that is loved by the community and we are grateful to Senator Gallivan for his support of Knox Farm State Park and we look forward to moving forward with these vital projects,” said Mark W. Thomas, Western District Director for New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.
"The award of the DASNY grant is wonderful news,” said Paul Battaglia, President of the Friends of Knox Farm State Park. “The replacement of the roof at the main house has been our top priority for quite some time and is critical to the viability of our operation of the house. Now we can turn our attention to the many other needs of the park. We are most grateful for Senator Gallivan's efforts in bringing this about."
Friends of Knox Farm State Park is a non-profit organization committed to preserving and promoting the character, history and beauty of the park.
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