Claverack awarded $195,000 for historic bridge and waterfront study

​The Town of Claverack will receive $195,000 in grant funding in the sixth round of the state’s Regional Economic Development Council awards. The announcement came today by Governor Andrew Cuomo at a news conference held in Albany.
 
The funding will go toward two town projects; restoration of the historic Shaw Bridge and a study of historic sites and access points within the Claverack Creek watershed.
 
A total of $170,000 was awarded to restore the internationally renowned Shaw Bridge, which crosses the Claverack Creek on Van Wyck Lane. The bridge will be restored to its original 1870 appearance, but as a pedestrian and bicycle bridge.
 
The second award, totaling $25,000, will allow the Town of Claverack to study the existing visual and public access to important historic sites within the Claverack Creek watershed, and identify waterfront access sites that will expand public recreation opportunities, including boating and fishing.
 
“I’m very happy to learn that we’ll be receiving this funding,” said Claverack Town Supervisor Kippy Weigelt. “Restoring the Shaw Bridge for pedestrian use and expanding access to areas for walking, biking, fishing, and boating are all worthy causes that will benefit everyone,” Weigelt added.
 
Supervisor Weigelt acknowledged the hard work of the Claverack Historic Preservation Advisory Committee, including Committee Chair Ian Nitschke, and congratulated them on the awards.
 
The Village of Philmont also received $191,250 to install a new disinfection system at the Village’s Wastewater Treatment Facility.
 
A complete listing of all 2016 Regional Economic Development Council awards can be found at www.regionalcouncils.ny.gov.