Expect Engineers on Rail Trail

July 15, 2025

Bridge Inspections Begin on Popular Wallkill Valley Rail Trail Segment in New Paltz

New Paltz, NY  — The Wallkill Valley Rail Trail (WVRT), a cherished segment of the Empire State Trail and a vital corridor for outdoor recreation, will soon undergo critical engineering inspections on one of its most iconic features—the 325-foot bridge over the Wallkill River at Springtown Road in New Paltz.

Owned and maintained by the Town of New Paltz, this historic bridge, prominently featured in the blockbuster film A Quiet Place, serves as a beloved destination for walkers, cyclists, runners, cross-country skiers, horseback riders, and wildlife enthusiasts who travel through Gardiner, New Paltz, Rosendale, and Ulster, all the way to the City of Kingston. Originally decked by volunteers when the WVRT was first established in 1991 by the Wallkill Valley Land Trust, the bridge is now showing the inevitable impact of decades of  time and weather. 

To explore options for restoration, the Hudson River Valley Greenway (HRVG) has committed $75,000 to fund a professional engineering analysis and feasibility study. This analysis will identify the necessary repairs and evaluate potential restoration approaches. Once complete, the next critical step will be securing funding for the repair and restoration work.

This initiative is being conducted with the full support of the Town of New Paltz, which owns this section of the WVRT and retains decision-making authority over the future of the bridge.  “The preservation of our beloved bridge and the assurance of its safe use is imperative,” said Amanda Gotto, Town of New Paltz Supervisor.  “The challenge of funding the work that will be needed is also significant.  We need all the help we can get, and are so grateful to HRVG for their generous support.” 

“This bridge is not only a visual and historical landmark, but a critical link in the WVRT system. Without repairs, we risk losing access to a safe and uninterrupted trail experience,” said Christie DeBoer, Executive Director of the Wallkill Valley Land Trust (WVLT).

“The Hudson River Valley Greenway is thrilled to support the Town of New Paltz’s feasibility study for upgrades to the Springtown Bridge.” Said Andy Kitzmann, Executive Director. “This collaborative approach with multiple partners will ensure the future bridge is safe and secure and will provide years of safe recreational opportunities.”

The bridge inspection will begin this month, and the feasibility study identifying recommended repairs will be completed by December. Once  the inspection begins, there will be some intermittent temporary and partial closures that will be managed by the Town of New Paltz Highway Department.  “Notice of any physical closures will be posted on the Town website, so check there,” said Chris Marx, Town Highway Superintendent.  “Our goal is to maintain access as safely as possible during this phase of the work.” The Wallkill Valley Land Trust will also provide updates and reminders on social media sites and their website. 

If the bridge were not renovated, a closure or detour around this bridge would force families and visitors onto narrow, shoulder-less roads—posing a significant public safety concern.  WVLT, which holds permanent conservation easements on this portion of the WVRT and owns the trail northward through the Rosendale Trestle, will assist in responding to public inquiries.   When the restoration finally occurs, some temporary full closures by the Town of New Paltz Highway Department will be required,  but it is the hope that this inspection  will provide a plan that is manageable, instead of the alternative of simply closing the bridge to public access. 

A public information session is planned for later this year to share findings from the feasibility study and gather community feedback. The Town of New Paltz, HRVG, and the Wallkill Valley Land Trust extend their appreciation to the public for their patience and continued support as the process begins to preserve and restore this irreplaceable community resource.

 

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