2025-117 (2)RANKING M1tN0UYAM,9fl,
CHILDREN AND FAMILIES
CRIME VICTIMS, CRIME AND CORRECTION
AGING
Al C:OI^HOLISM AND SUBSTANCE USE DISORDERS
LABOR
LOCAL GOVERNMENT
CANNABIS
JOINT SENATE TASK FORCE ON
OPIOIDS, ADDICTION AND OVERDOSE PREVENTION
May 23, 2025
THE SENATE
STATE OF NEW YORK
ROBERT O. ROLISON
39T" DISTRICT
Randy Simons, Commissioner
NYS Office of Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation
625 Broadway
Albany, NY 12207
Re: 2025 CFA Program Year
NYS OPRHP Environmental Protection Fund (EPF)
Carnwath Manor Feasibility Study and Preliminary Engineering Project
Town of Wappinger, New York
Dear Commissioner Simons:
ALBANY OFFICE
ROOM 613
LEGISLATIVE OFFICE BUILDING
ALBANY,. NEW YORK 12247
5181455.2945
DISTRICT OFFICE
3 NEPTUNE ROAD
SUITE N22
POUGHKEEPSIE. NEW YORK 12601
18451229.0106
EMAIL
ROLISON @NYSE NATE.GOV
Please accept this letter as evidence of my strong support for the Town of Wappinger's 2025 EPF
grant application for the Carnwath Manor Feasibility Study and Preliminary Engineering Project.
This is an exceptional opportunity for the Town to advance the preservation and utilization of this
significant historical structure.
Since 1999, Wappinger has maintained an unwavering commitment toward revitalizing Carnwath
Farms Historic Site & Park to its former glory, transforming it from a diamond in the rough to a
gleaming regional gem. Much of this goal has already been realized. This majestic Victorian -era
parcel now operates as a 99 -acre public park, serving as Wappinger's premier destination for arts,
culture, history, activities and leisure. Park amenities include the Reese Cultural Center; the Sports
Museum of Dutchess County; Carnwath Community Farming; and a three-mile trail network with
breathtaking views of the Hudson River and surrounding countryside. This park is situated in the
Wheeler Hill Historic District, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is also a
participating location on the Dutchess Tourism Zen Finder Outdoor Experience Trail, featuring some
of the best trails, activities and scenery in a curated itinerary of outdoor destinations.
However, the Carnwath Manor building on site, built in 1850, remains a boarded -up eyesore
languishing in worsening deterioration. A structural walkthrough conducted by a professional
engineer cited critical concerns including, but not limited to: significant water damage and rot,
collapsed wood floors, a partially collapsed foundation wall, and the need for a new permanent roof.
The report noted that the building can still be salvaged if remedial action is taken.
The potential for this storied facility is vast, in tandem with the array of vibrant programs and
resources the park provides. Through the EPF Grant Program, the Town is seeking necessary funding
to conduct a comprehensive feasibility study and the development of initial phase one engineering
plans for the stabilization and rehabilitation of Carnwath Manor, incorporating public input
throughout the process to determine the best course of action for everyone's benefit.
I wholeheartedly support this vital project to begin the reclamation process of Carnwath Manor for
future generations. Thank you in advance for your consideration. Please do not hesitate to contact my
office if I can provide further assistance.
Sincerely,
1 .
.1� 111 aJ
Robert G. Rolison
New York State Senate
3911' District