The New York State Departments of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and Transportation (DOT), in cooperation with the Office of General Services (OGS), today announced the completion of the transfer of jurisdiction for a 34-mile segment of the Remsen-Lake Placid Travel Corridor. This portion of the future Adirondack Rail Trail between Tupper Lake and Lake Placid was transferred from DOT to DEC, marking the official start of the trail's design and construction phase and the conversion of the railbed into a shared-use path for hikers, bikers, cross-country skiers, and snowmobile enthusiasts.
"New York State continues to advance the Adirondack Rail Trail for the benefit of outdoor enthusiasts everywhere," DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos said. "We thank our colleagues at the Department of Transportation for their efforts over the past year to remove existing rail tie infrastructure and set the stage for the next phase of work. DEC looks forward to working with our partners at the Office of General Services to design, build, and maintain this new and accessible recreational resource for residents and visitors alike."
"With unparalleled scenery, the Adirondack Rail Trail will be one of the premier destinations for people looking for recreational adventure in upstate New York," said DOT Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez. "The Department of Transportation worked diligently to prepare the trail for the next phase of construction which will be undertaken and completed by our State partners in the coming years. Once finished, the trail will be a model of resiliency and will provide climate-friendly recreational activities for people from across the globe to enjoy."
"The development of a world-class Adirondack Rail Trail will greatly enhance the public's ability to enjoy and explore one of our State's most valuable and beautiful natural resources," OGS Commissioner Jeanette Moy said. "OGS is committed to working with its partners in State government on projects that preserve natural resources, support regional tourism, and contribute to New York State's economic recovery."