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State of the State Address 2008
“In what will be the first major investment in our parks leading up to the 400th anniversary of Henry Hudson’s first voyage up the Hudson River, today I am announcing the State’s commitment to transform the dormant Poughkeepsie Rail Bridge into an awe-inspiring historic park, complete with a walkway and bikeway that will create a unique public space with breathtaking views of the Hudson.”
-Governor Eliot Spitzer (January 9, 2008)
The Opportunity
- 2009 will mark the 400th anniversary of Henry Hudson’s voyage up the Hudson River.
- When the Poughkeepsie-Highland Railroad Bridge was built in 1888 it was the longest bridge in the world, with train volume exceeding 3,500 cars each day during World War II.
- After a fire, the last train crossed the bridge in 1974, but the bridge remains structurally sound and is listed on the NYS Historic Register.
Our Approach
- An investment to transform the dormant Poughkeepsie-Highland Railroad Bridge into the longest pedestrian and bicycle bridge over the water in the world.
- The Governor’s Executive Budget will include a funding program to accommodate important parks restoration projects throughout the State, including the Hudson River Walkway. These funds will be combined with matching private donations to fund the design and construction of the Walkway.
- The 19th century engineering marvel, with sweeping views of the Hudson River, will become a 21st century park and catalyst for economic growth in the Hudson Valley.
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