Just Ahead - Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway

ALBANY, 06/23/15 – State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I- Oneonta) today announced final legislative approval of a bill he sponsored establishing the Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway.  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 the local stewards of the Catskills draw travelers to our region increasing economic prosperity, while, at the same time, fully safeguard our treasured natural resources.” 

The Catskill Mountain 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. 

Along with advancing the scenic byway legislation, Senator Seward helped secure $500,000 in the 2015-16 state budget to promote economic growth, tourism, and access to the Catskill Park.

“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 the numerous benefits it will generate,” Seward concluded. 

Companion legislation (A.7954) sponsored by Assemblyman Cahill has also been approved by the state assembly.  The bill will be sent to the governor for his consideration.

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