The Saugerties Lighthouse is among 14 historically significant properties in New York State that will receive grants to address damage caused by Superstorm Sandy in October of 2012.
The 145-year-old landmark that has become the go-to symbol of Saugerties since its restoration in the late-’80s will get $175,000.
“We are grateful for these much needed funds to preserve this historic landmark,” said Patrick Landewe, lighthouse keeper and village trustee. “The lighthouse itself has withstood many storms, but back-to-back floods took their toll on the docks, pier and sea wall. We hope that repairs to these supporting structures will increase resilience to future floods.”
“Marine transportation helped make New York the Empire State, and the Saugerties Lighthouse is an important part of our cultural heritage,” said U.S. Rep. Chris Gibson. “This is good news for the residents of the Hudson Valley and the many businesses that rely on tourism along the river.”
A total of $5 million in funds was provided by the National Park Service. The grants are administered by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. To be eligible, properties had to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places, owned by municipalities or not-for-profit organizations and located in one of 13 FEMA-designated counties. The lighthouse was the lone Ulster County recipient; others were in New York City, Long Island or Suffolk County.