$500,000 in Funding to Restore Traphagen

WEST NYACK, NY — New York State Assemblyman Ken Zebrowski and State Senator David Carlucci announced Wednesday that they have each secured $250,000 in funding to restore the Traphagen property in West Nyack.

The legislators stood with officials from Heritage of West Nyack, Habitat for Humanity, and the town of Clarkstown for the announcement. They paid recognition to the many individuals who have worked for years to preserve the property such as Heritage, The Town of Clarkstown, Councilwoman Stephanie Hausner and local historians who have emphasized the importance of the area.

The parcel, which includes the 1729 Vanderbilt House and 1820 Traphagen House, is located on Germonds Road. Local activists have been working to save the property for years.

“I am happy I was able to secure $250,000 in funding to help bring the Traphagen property back to life. The property has stood as a symbol of Rockland’s heritage for centuries and we need to preserve it for future generations. The rehabilitation of the property and the Vanderbilt-Budke house will provide residents and visitors with a historical and educational outlet to learn more about Clarkstown’s roots,” said Zebrowski.

The $500,000 will be used for a complete restoration of the historic Vanderbilt-Budke house and will connect the property to Germonds Park with pedestrian trails to encourage more residents and visitors to enjoy the home. Once completed, the Town plans to use the space for historic reenactments, community gatherings, and possibly some farming.

"I am so proud to have been able to secure $250,000 in funding for the Traphagen House. This historic structure is one of Clarkstown’s oldest known structures and should be enjoyed for generations to come. Assemblymember Zebrowski and I are overjoyed that the funding we secured will bring this rich history back to life," said Carlucci.

The announcement also included a small ceremony for Bert Dahm, President of Heritage of West Nyack. For years, Dahm has worked tirelessly to maintain the property and bring awareness about the importance of preserving this piece of history. The group honored Dahm for his efforts and service to the Town.

"Since taking office, I have made it a priority to restore the historic Vanderbilt-Budke and Traphagen homesteads in West Nyack,” said Clarkstown Supervisor George Hoehmann. “On behalf of the Town of Clarkstown, I thank Assemblyman Zebrowski and Senator Carlucci for their partnership in our efforts to preserve these houses and this property for future generations to enjoy and learn about the Town’s rich history."

In December, Traphagen will be designated on the National Register of Historic Places, officials said.

PHOTOS courtesy Clarkstown Town Supervisor's Office

• Bert Dahm, President of Heritage of West Nyack, was honored for his tireless efforts to maintain and preserve the property
• Assemblyman Zebrowski, Senator Carlucci, Supervisor Hoehmann and Councilman Frank Borelli announce the grants.