Walkway Honors Frontline Workers With Bridge-Sized 'Thank You!'

POUGHKEEPSIE, NY — To honor those on the front lines of the new coronavirus crisis, Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park was recently lit by more than 1,300 luminaries spelling out "THANK YOU!" It transformed the Hudson Valley’s iconic landmark into the community’s largest display of gratitude.

According to organizers, the display of light spanned more than 200 feet on the world's longest elevated pedestrian bridge.

Elizabeth Waldstein, executive director of Friends of the Walkway, said the project salutes everyone going to exceptional lengths to keep people healthy and society functioning in the Hudson Valley and across the nation.

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“We hope that through this grand display across the Walkway frontline workers know just how much we appreciate their tremendous efforts,” she said.

“That includes our partners at New York State Parks and the Walkway park management team, all of whom have gone above-and-beyond to ensure the bridge can remain open for those needing an outdoor respite,” Waldstein said.

In the coming days, photo prints of the temporary light installation will be presented to key agencies in the community — places like emergency rooms, grocery stores, police stations and fire departments.

Beginning Saturday, which is I Love My Park Day, the public will be able to help extend the gratitude by purchasing prints and note cards at walkway.org to recognize those who have made a difference in their lives during the pandemic.

Friends of the Walkway board members, volunteers and staff worked side-by-side with New York State Parks personnel to facilitate the creation of this display, the largest of its kind in the history of the bridge. Board member Kathy Smith developed the logistical plan and led the buildout of the light display, and board member Bob Kaminsky led production design. Scott Snell of SDS Imaging donated his aerial photography services to capture the scene, and Walkway volunteer Irving Solero took on-the-ground stills.

At all times, everyone involved in the project followed the state's Department of Health best practices for being outdoors by wearing face coverings and working in shifts to avoid gathering. Each of the 1,300 luminary bags was marked with "Honor. Remember. Celebrate." The New York State Bridge Authority lit the nearby Mid-Hudson Bridge in blue and white on the evening of the photoshoot, while two boats from the Dutchess County Sheriff’s Office provided uplighting on the Walkway superstructure.

“When the bridge first opened in the 1890s, it was known as The Great Connector, and I think it lived up to that nickname here,” said Linda Cooper, regional director Taconic Region, New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation.

“We’re proud of the role that Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park plays in our community and that the bridge is able to be open at this time for people to get fresh air and exercise while taking in remarkable views,” she said.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo has designated that New York state parks, including the Walkway Over the Hudson, remain open and accessible to the extent possible at this time. To read the health and safety guidelines patrons are asked to follow before visiting the Walkway, visit this web page.

For more information about the creation of this special project, including behind-the-scenes photos and video, plus a detailed account of how it all came together, go here.

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