WEST HURLEY – The Ashokan Rail Trail, an 11.5 mile recreational trail from Basin Road in West Hurley to Route 28A in Boiceville was opened on Friday.
The $16.5 million project follows the alignment of the former Ulster and Delaware Railroad corridor and opens the Ulster County-owned right-of-way to the public without access to permits for the first time since the New York City Department of Environmental Protection reservoir was constructed over a century ago.
“This strategic investment positions us to bolster our reputation as one of the most trail-friendly counties in New York State and accelerate economic growth linked to our expanding tourism industry,” said County Executive Patrick Ryan.
County Legislature Chairwoman Tracey Bartels called the reservoir land a “truly magnificent treasure.”
The Ashokan Rail Trail is open from sunrise to sunset throughout the year. Friday’s event opens most of the trail – nine miles – to the public with the remaining 2.5 miles expected to open before the end of the year.
