Maybrook Trailway receives long overdue maintenance

After months of growing public concern over poor trail condition, Dutchess County agreed to an interim agreement with MTA Metro-North to temporarily maintain the Maybrook Trailway. As of September 13, the Department of Public Works and Dutchess County Parks have removed fallen trees, overgrowth, and brush from the 15-mile trail. A permanent solution is still underway.

As the State’s leading advocate for the expansion and preservation of New York’s exceptional network of greenway trails, Parks & Trails New York applauds Dutchess County and the MTA for maintaining this critical section of the Empire State Trail.

“Parks & Trails New York commends the local and state leaders who came together to ensure that this valuable recreation and transportation resource is safely and properly maintained,” said Parks & Trails New York Executive Director Paul Steely White.

For the tens of thousands of people who use the Maybrook Trail every year for leisure and commuting (Hudson River Valley Greenway Trail 2022 Trail Visitation Report, 2023), this news is as welcome as it is overdue. For as pleased as we are that Dutchess County and Metro North Railroad came to an agreement, it is unacceptable that this valuable asset was neglected for so many months during peak season. Throughout the summer, people from all over the world come to experience the Empire State Trail, of which the Maybrook Trailway is an integral part.

As more New Yorkers seek out natural experiences and healthier and greener ways to live, it is imperative that our County and State leaders treat greenway trail maintenance with the same priority and urgency as they do other valuable public infrastructure. Through advocacy, legislation, and greenway trail promotion, Parks & Trails New York will continue to fight for a statewide greenway trail network where every section meets a minimum standard of safety and accessibility.”