The Town of Halfmoon today announced that it has been awarded an $85,000 grant as part of Round XIV of New York State’s Regional Economic Development Council (REDC) initiative. This funding, provided through a competitive selection process, will support the Town of Halfmoon’s Crescent Park Blue and Green Trailhead Improvement Project, which aims to enhance the functionality and beautification of areas surrounding the Canal and Canalway Trails.
The grant for the Crescent Park Blue and Green Trailhead Improvement Project will promote recreation, economic development, and tourism by investing in the park’s amenities and accessibility, creating a more vibrant and inviting space for residents and visitors alike.
As noted in REDC’s grant announcement, the Town of Halfmoon will utilize the funding to renovate an existing parking lot and trailhead adjacent to the Erie Canal in the town’s Crescent Park. The project includes the design and installation of a paved parking lot and extension of an existing paved shared use trail that connects to the Park’s kayak launch site. These renovations aim to help minimize maintenance needed to repair potholes and erosion from stormwater runoff and help preserve the structural integrity of the existing bulkhead by reducing bank erosion. The renovated parking lot will also allow for better access to the park’s facilities by creating more ADA-compliant pathways for pedestrians and bikers.
Halfmoon Town Supervisor Kevin Tollisen expressed his support for the town being awarded the valuable grant saying, “We are thrilled to receive this funding for the Crescent Park Blue and Green Trailhead Improvement Project. This grant will enable us to make significant enhancements that will benefit our community by improving access to the canal and creating a beautiful, welcoming environment for everyone to enjoy. The Regional Economic Development Council and the Canal Corporation’s support underscores the importance of preserving and enhancing our waterways for future generations, and we appreciate their recognition of our town’s efforts.”
The grant was awarded as part of the REDC initiative, which aims to drive economic growth and development across New York State through smart, targeted investments. This year’s focus includes projects that improve accessibility, enhance quality of life, and promote tourism and recreation in communities along the New York State Canal System. The Town of Halfmoon was one of eight Upstate New York municipalities to be awarded the funding.
The Town of Halfmoon looks forward to beginning work on the Crescent Park Blue and Green Trailhead Improvement Project and continuing its commitment to improving the quality of life for its residents and visitors through thoughtful investment in public spaces.
For more information, please contact the Town of Halfmoon at (518) 371-7410, ext. 2200.