Gov. Spitzer's proposal benefits environment and economic development

NEW YORK - Gov. Eliot Spitzer's commitment to transform the Poughkeepsie-Highland Railroad Bridge into an elevated park and walkway demonstrates how smart economic policies and environmental progress can go hand in hand, according to the New York League of Conservation Voters.

"This groundbreaking urban park will make Poughkeepsie a destination for visitors from near and far," said Marcia Bystryn, executive director of the New York League of Conservation Voters. "It will boost Poughkeepsie's economic revitalization, while attracting greater attention to the Hudson River and inspiring future generations to become engaged in its care," said Marcia Bystryn, executive director of the New York League of Conservation Voters.

The Walkway over the Hudson - as the new park would be called - would serve as a touchstone for New York State's Quadricentennial celebration of Henry Hudson's initial river voyage in 2009. Under Gov. Spitzer's proposal, the bridge would be transformed into a park and walkway for pedestrians, hikers, joggers and bicyclists. It would also serve as a connector to trails on both sides of the Hudson.

The bridge spans 6,767 feet and has been closed since a fire seriously damaged the tracks in 1974.

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The New York League of Conservation Voters (NYLCV) was founded in 1989 as a nonpartisan, policy-making and political action organization that works to make environmental protection a top priority with elected officials, decision makers, and voters by evaluating incumbent performance and endorsing and electing environmental leaders to office in New York State.