ALBANY — Parks & Trails New York (PTNY) Saturday joined Assemblymember Patricia Fahy to praise Governor Andrew Cuomo for signing legislation, directing the state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation to develop a coordinated plan for linking existing trails with potential trail corridors.

This effort builds off of the momentum of the Empire State Trail’s completion in 2020 and supports additional opportunities that can transform our statewide trail system into a true network, connecting local trails with the main spine of the Empire State Trail and cementing New York’s position as the nation’s leader in multi-use trails.

“This exciting legislation will ensure that New York builds upon the momentum of the Empire State Trail,” said Robin Dropkin, PTNY executive director.

Thanks to Fahy and Senator Anna Kaplan and members of the state Legislature, New York can maximize trail network connectivity and carry out its vision as the nation’s premier destination for outdoor tourism. An updated plan will guide trail development around the state and enable our communities to enjoy the economic, health, and environmental benefits of multi-use trails. Creating and enacting the statewide trail plan will provide the framework for future projects that enhance multi-modal connectivity and active transportation networks in New York.

“Trails and greenways provide a great deal of benefits to communities,” Fahy said. “They make it easier for New Yorkers to stay active and have fun.”

The multi-use trails plan is a centerpiece of PTNY’s Trails Across New York campaign which envisions a future in which all New Yorkers will have safe and reliable access to our state’s extensive trail network. Throughout the state, trails, bicycle boulevards, and Complete Streets will be acknowledged as essential and mainstream elements of community infrastructure, much as utility lines and sidewalks are thought of today.