Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo announced this week the start of work to reconstruct and reinforce the historic Saugerties Lighthouse’s foundation and adjacent infrastructure which were damaged by Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee and further threatened by Superstorm Sandy’s high water. The Lighthouse was first established in 1835 and the current structure, which still operates as a navigational beacon, was built in 1869, making it the oldest surviving lighthouse residence on the Hudson River.
The $478,000 project, funded by the Governor’s Office of Storm Recovery, will restore and overhaul Saugerties Lighthouse’s existing bulkheads, seawalls, piers and adjacent infrastructure. The construction began Aug. 13 and will be complete in early fall.
“We are excited to repair this cherished historic landmark, an effort that will coincide with the building’s 150th year in 2019,” said the lighthouse’s Patrick Landewe in the release from the governor’s office. “The Saugerties Lighthouse survives through the passion and dedication of a community of supporters, and a firm footing is vital to ensure that this part of New York’s maritime heritage can be shared with generations to come.”