​Peekskill To Receive $2M+ For Waterfront Projects

PEEKSKILL, NY — The city of Peekskill was awarded more than $2.5 million in funding for its two waterfront projects.

The projects that have received the grant are for the Riverfront Green Connector Trail construction and the Fleischmann Pier and Charles Park improvements.

The funds come from the New York State Regional Economic Development Councils through the Consolidated Funding Application, according to a spokesperson.

Mayor Vivian McKenzie congratulated the city's planning department for the countless hours it spent on the projects and the grant application process.

"The addition of these funds from New York State will help aid in the completion of these projects and transform the waterfront in our great city,” she said.

A grant of $1,092,928 and a city match of $184,309 that is available in the Parks and Recreation Fund will aid in constructing improvements for Fleischmann Pier and Charles Point Park, with bids anticipated to begin in March 2022.

Fleischmann Pier, a 500-foot long pier built in 1938, is one of the few deep water piers on the Hudson River and was made long and narrow to handle molasses shipments from ocean-going cargo ships. This multi-phased project will involve park improvements that include landscaping, seating, stairs, lighting and electrical work.

In addition, this project will implement the City's Local Waterfront Revitalization Program by enhancing water-based recreational amenities and providing additional public access to the Hudson River waterfront by creating docking for kayaks and larger vessels.

The Riverfront Green Park, a popular park with backdrops of the Hudson Highlands, is an ideal location for many to river watch, partake in the walking trails, bring the kids to the playground and enjoy many special events.

A grant of $1,480,428 and a city match of $343,544 that is available in the Parks and Recreation Fund will construct a trail segment and amenities in Riverfront Green Park, with anticipated bidding to begin in spring 2022 if permits are received.

This project will advance the City's Local Waterfront Revitalization Program and Waterfront Master Plan through enhancing public access and expanding trail opportunities.

Matrix Consulting shared a presentation at the June 7 Committee of the Whole meeting that discussed the details of this project, including beach renourishment, flood control and erosion measures, a living shoreline, an observation platform, landscaping and other amenities. The completion of this project will bring the final touches to the city's nearly 3-mile waterfront trail system, transforming the city's waterfront and making it a premier destination in the Hudson Valley region and beyond.