Adirondack Rail Trail Amendment Awaits Governor’s Approval

RAY BROOK, N.Y. (AP) — The Adirondack Park Agency is recommending a legal change to clear the way for the state to build a 34-mile rail-trail through the heart of the Adirondacks.

The APA action Friday is in response to a judge's decision that the state's proposal to remove tracks and create a multi-use recreational trail violated the State Land Master Plan. The decision came in a lawsuit filed by the Adirondack Railway Preservation Society, which wants the state to upgrade the railroad tracks for a tourist train.

The state is proposing to divide the 119-mile travel corridor from the Utica area to Lake Placid. There will be an 85-mile rail segment to Tupper Lake and a 34-mile multi-use trail from Tupper to Lake Placid.

The APA's amendment awaits Gov. Andrew Cuomo's approval.