ALBANY – Assemblyman Colin Schmitt (R, New Windsor) and Senator Mike Martucci (R, New Hampton) announced the passage of legislation amending state law to define Otter Kill Creek in Orange County as part of the state’s inland waterway system.
The legislation passed the Assembly and Senate unanimously during the legislative session this week. The bill now goes to the governor for final approval.
Otter Kill Creek is a 16-mile-long waterway flowing through central Orange County that eventually runs into the Hudson River. With its new designation as an inland waterway, the creek is now eligible for grants through the Local Waterfront Revitalization Program.
“This bill will open up further opportunities for Otter Kill Creek that benefit all residents and our local environment through grant funding, resources, and conservation opportunities,” said Schmitt.
Martucci said the measure will protect and preserve Otter Kill Creek for generations to come. “This new designation allows us to gain key resources that will ensure its quality and support future revitalization projects, all in an effort to guarantee its safe use by Orange County residents,” he said.
