Governor Kathy Hochul has signed legislation aimed at strengthening New York’s Olympic sports facilities while expanding environmental protections in the Adirondacks. The bill (S.8047/A.3628), signed on October 27, prepares the state for the potential implementation of a constitutional amendment tied to the Mount Van Hoevenberg Olympic Sports Complex in Essex County.
If approved by voters, the amendment — Proposal 1 on the 2025 ballot — would allow the state to use a limited portion of Forest Preserve land for Olympic training and competition facilities, while requiring the acquisition of at least 2,500 acres of new forest land to offset that use.
“This legislation ensures that, if voters support this amendment, New York will be ready to act immediately,” Governor Hochul said. “We can protect our Olympic legacy while also expanding the Adirondack Forest Preserve — a win for both recreation and conservation.”
Protecting the Adirondack Park
The Mount Van Hoevenberg complex is a world-class site for Nordic skiing, biathlon, and bobsled training. It has hosted multiple Olympic and international events and continues to serve as a training ground for elite athletes.
Under the newly signed law, any development at the site must comply with the Adirondack Park State Land Master Plan and go through the Unit Management Plan process — a key safeguard under state environmental law.
To maintain the constitutional protection of “forever wild” lands in the Adirondack Park, the law requires that the state add at least 2,500 acres of new, undeveloped land to the Forest Preserve — more than offsetting the land used for Olympic sports development.
“This resolves a longstanding issue and ensures our Olympic facilities remain state-of-the-art while protecting the Forest Preserve,” said State Senator Dan Stec.
What’s next: Voter approval required
The legislation only takes effect if New York voters approve Proposal 1 in the 2025 general election. If passed, it would allow the state to move forward with enhancements to Mount Van Hoevenberg while immediately adding thousands of acres to the publicly protected lands of the Adirondacks.
The state has launched informational resources to help voters understand Proposal 1 and its implications for recreation, environmental conservation, and economic development in the North Country.
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