$14M renovation of Harriman camp grounds announced

PRESS RELEASE

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo on Wednesday announced New York State is investing $14 million to revitalize the nation’s first and oldest outdoor summer group camps at Harriman State Parks. Originally constructed in 1913, these 37 outdoor group camp facilities were built to provide children from underserved communities with a place to enjoy and experience the outdoors, but have fallen into disrepair following many decades of deterioration. Thanks to funding made available through Governor Cuomo’s NY Parks 2020 initiative, long overdue infrastructure and recreational improvements can now be completed.

“The Harriman Group Camps have long been a place where some of our youngest New Yorkers from underserved communities are able to connect with nature for the very first time,” Governor Cuomo said. “This funding will allow these camps to make the upgrades necessary to ensure future generations can share this great part of New York’s heritage.”

The $14 million in NY Parks 2020 funding will support critical infrastructure improvements such as water supply restoration, new and improved utilities, building and roof repairs, roadways and trail reconstruction, and modernization of the wastewater treatment systems. Additionally, several new docks will be installed to reinvigorate and reintroduce popular camp activities such as swimming, fishing, canoeing and kayaking.