Heritage Trail expands two miles from Monroe to Harriman

MONROE — Orange County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus participated in a ceremonial ribbon-cutting last Friday to celebrate the extension of the Heritage Trail from the Village of Monroe into Harriman.
Neuhaus was joined at the event by Orange County Legislators Jim DiSalvo and Myrna Kemnitz, Village of Harriman Mayor Stephen H. Welle, Monroe Town Councilman Tony Cardone, Village of Monroe Mayor James Purcell and Department of Public Works Commissioner Chris Viebrock.
“The Heritage Trail is one of the most popular recreation destinations in the county," Neuhaus said. "I live near the trail and enjoy utilizing it with my family and having the opportunity to interact with residents who take advantage of using this wonderful space in our county.”
From Clark Street to River RoadThe Heritage Trail is a 10-foot wide trail on the right-of-way of the former Erie Railroad and features sections of both asphalt and limestone surface
The Heritage Trail was extended from the Village of Monroe at Clark Street to River Road in the Village of Harriman, adding approximately two miles.
Funding for the $375,000 project came from a County Capital Project Budget.
"On behalf of our residents, we appreciate that local families will be able to take advantage of this county gem," Welle said.
The Heritage Trail now runs approximately 14.5 miles from Goshen to Harriman with approximately 150,000 people using it each year for running, biking, hiking and environmental and natural studies.
It has access points in Monroe, Chester and Goshen. The trail features historic landmarks, scenic views, a bird/wildlife sanctuary and access to dining and shopping in the municipalities through which it runs.
Added DiSalvo: “The Heritage Trail is a great economic engine for Orange County and enjoyed by so many residents.”
Future extensions of the Heritage Trail include up to an additional 10 miles of paved trail from Goshen to Middletown. The construction is anticipated to begin in 2018.