Assembly passes measure to expand the Black River Trail and create the Maple Traditions Scenic Byway
Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell (D-Theresa) announced the Assembly passed legislation she sponsored to create two distinct New York State Scenic Byways in the North Country (A.4637). This legislation would expand the current Black River Trail and create a new Maple Traditions Scenic Byway to promote tourism.
“The North Country has so much to offer families and visitors looking to enjoy beautiful, scenic views,” Assemblywoman Russell said. “By expanding current byways and creating new ones here, we can provide tourists with exciting and educational corridors to enjoy the North Country’s unique landscape and learn more about the traditions and significance of our region. Also, new byways will improve travel, help preserve our environment and strengthen our economic revitalization with increased tourism.”
In 1992, the Scenic Byways Program was established as part of the state Department of Transportation to promote tourism and the preservation of surrounding environments through a statewide system of byways. The program encourages coordination between public and private interests to foster economic development, resource management and community services. Currently, there are over 2,000 miles of road included in the New York State Byways system that represent a particular region’s scenic, recreational, cultural, natural, historical or archaeological significance.
Last October, the New York State Scenic Byways Advisory Board made recommendations for the expansion of the Black River Trail and creation of the Maple Traditions Scenic Byway. Under the measure, the 95-mile corridor of the revised Black River Trail Scenic Byway would add various roads that pass through the towns of Hounsfield, Brownville and the city of Watertown in Jefferson County. It would rename sections of the existing Black River Trail to the new 71-mile corridor Maple Traditions Scenic Byway, which would also include towns of Oswegatchie and Canton in St. Lawrence County.
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