Two Finger Lakes park groups will see long-awaited upgrades after New York State awarded millions to local partners across the state.
The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation announced $2.25 million in grants to 27 nonprofit organizations supporting state parks, trails, and historic sites. The funding marks the largest allocation in the program’s 10-year history and builds on Gov. Kathy Hochul’s push to get residents outdoors.
In the Finger Lakes region, Friends of Hamlin Beach State Park received $135,000 for the second phase of interior upgrades to a historic hexagon-shaped building. The project will turn the space into a multi-use gathering area for park programs and community events.
Friends of Letchworth State Park was awarded $91,535 to preserve two historic structures at the Council Grounds. The grant will fund historically accurate roofing for the Council House and Nancy Jemison Cabin, along with a brochure to better share the site’s history with visitors.
The grants come through the Park and Trail Partnership Grants program, which supports nonprofit groups that help maintain and promote public lands. The program relies on public-private partnerships, requiring recipients to raise at least 10 percent of their grant amount in matching funds.
State officials said the latest round will also leverage more than $800,000 in private support.
“This innovative grant program helps enhance the incredible work done at the grassroots level,” Acting State Parks Commissioner Kathy Moser said in a statement, thanking local partners and volunteers who support parks and historic sites.
The program, funded through the state Environmental Protection Fund, marks its 10th anniversary this year. Since its launch, more than 90 organizations statewide have received over $10 million to support 272 projects, including the creation of 27 permanent positions.
Parks & Trails New York, which administers the grants alongside the state, said the funding helps expand access, improve visitor experiences, and strengthen connections to natural and historic resources.
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to [email protected].