The Town of New Paltz has contracted with environmental planner Ted Fink to develop a community preservation plan to update and integrate the community’s open space and historic preservation plans. The new plan will draw on the data and documents the town has developed on natural resources, agricultural and historic properties.
“This is a forward-looking project that will help New Paltz secure future funding to protect priorities identified by the community,” said Neil Bettez, New Paltz town supervisor. “For that reason, I consider this effort a good investment in the future of our community.”
New Paltz values these natural resources. “This period of social distancing has, if anything, heightened awareness among residents about the value of New Paltz’s open spaces and public trails and the restorative power of nature. It is as important as ever that we continue our work to set priorities and plan for conservation and stewardship of our natural areas, recreation assets and historic properties,” said Ingrid Haeckel, chair of the town environmental commission board. “We are delighted to be able to work with Ted Fink at this time.”
“New Paltz is known for its wealth of iconic scenery, open spaces, recreational assets, habitats, farmland and historic features,” said Fink. “I am happy to be working with New Paltz to set priorities and develop a community preservation plan, particularly since so much good work has already been done by volunteers in the town, and the current and previous town boards.”