"With tonight's action the Schenectady County Legislature can now move forward with the safety and recreational enhancements we announced last year (see attached release from May 19, 2016 for additional details) at the Plotter Kill Preserve," said Assemblyman Santabarbara. "The Plotter Kill Preserve is a cherished natural resource in our local community, offering the unique sights of three beautiful waterfalls and a place to study nature with more than 600 plant species found there to date,” Santabarbara added. “The park has grown in popularity over the years, and it's important the we move forward with these significant improvements to ensure residents and regional visitors can continue to enjoy this community gem for years to come."

Last year, Santabarbara's $350,000 Assembly budget proposal, secured in the final state budget, and an additional $250,000 secured through a capital grant from Assemblyman Santabarbara's office brings a total of $600,000 to fund this project that includes:

*The creation of an ADA accessible trail with an overlook of the Upper Falls

The blue trail that leads towards the Kill from the Mariaville Road entrance will be widened, leveled off, and gravel/stone will be placed on the trail to improve drainage and accessibility.

*The installation of viewing platforms

Multiple observation platforms are planned for development including one on the south side of the Kill, providing an outlook of the Upper Falls. This observation platform will be accessible via the ADA trail. The other observation platforms will be constructed to provide viewing accessibility of the Upper, Lower and Rynex Falls.

*Trail enhancements

Improved signage including both directional and safety signage will be placed in the Preserve. A consultant is currently developing a signage plan and suggested language. The installation of anchors along the creek and the steep portions of the Preserve will assist first responders in emergency situations. The trails will be realigned throughout the Preserve with improved access to the base of the falls.

The Plotter Kill Nature Preserve is a 632-acre park located in the town of Rotterdam and managed by Schenectady County. The primary features at the Preserve are the waterfalls and the cascades. The Plotter Kill includes the 60-foot-tall “Upper Falls,” the 40-foot-tall “Lower Falls,” and the Rynex Creek Falls, which is also 40 feet tall. Access to all three of these waterfalls is most commonly through the Mariaville Road Trailhead. In addition, there are several smaller cascades on the lower Plotter Kill, making it one of the most unique Preserves in the region.