Editor, The Spotlight;
As one of the Helderberg Hudson Rail Trail stewards, I pay close attention to developments on and adjacent to the trail. Everyone who is involved or uses the trail recognizes the vision and support by County Executive McCoy and his staff, so his letter in the last Spotlight resonated.
Although work on the trail is proceeding rapidly, there is a growing problem that needs to be addressed before part of the trail is open this year, and the entire trail completed in 2016.
With the increased attention, problems are popping up as respects vehicle parking. There are few formal places to park, and crowding at some access points coupled with a few inconsiderate users are causing problems with some neighbors. Is it correct that the county doesn’t want to address parking access until the trail is near completion?
Lack of planned parking at popular access points such as Upper and Lower Font Grove roads, Hilton Road, Hudson Avenue, Mason, Gardner Terrace and Gardner Terrace Extension have either safety or “good neighbor” issues. Waiting until the trail is completed is too late for the county to work out parking for the safety and enjoyment of trail neighbors and users.
Alan Via
Slingerlands
