Support the Empire State Trail on March 2

The Empire State Trail is a new proposal to Close the Gaps in the Erie Canalway Trail, as well as building a connected trail system between New York City and the Canadian border - all by 2020! Show your support by joining Parks & Trails New York in Albany on March 2 for Empire State Trail Day, a day of legislative advocacy in support of the Empire State Trail vision - or support the landmark trail funding from your neck of the woods.

What is the Empire State Trail?

Govenor Andrew Cuomo has included funding for a fully-connected, statewide multi-use trail system, called the Empire State Trail, in his Executive Budget Proposal. By finishing the Buffalo to Albany Erie Canalway Trail, and connecting New York City to the North Country, the Empire State Trail will create the nation’s premier multi-use trail network – a full 750 miles of off-road trail and road connections.

The Empire State Trail will secure New York’s place as a national and international destination for outdoor recreation and heritage tourism. But first, we have to make sure that proposed funding for the multi-year project makes it into the final state budget.

This is where you come in - Join us for Empire State Trail Day on March 2

• A day of legislative advocacy in support of the Empire State Trail vision
• Morning program in Albany Room, Concourse of Empire State Plaza, 8:30 AM
• Legislative visits from 10 AM – 2 PM
• Empire State Trail display in the Well of Legislative Office Building, “Between the Glass Doors” area
• Register here

On Empire State Trail Day, you'll join a team led by experienced advocates. As you arrive, we'll introduce you to your team members and review the day's schedule over coffee and light refreshments. Then it's off to make your voice heard. Team leaders will assist you in making the case for the Empire State Trail vision and funding.

There is no cost to participate, but registration is required. Prior to Empire State Trail Day we will email you information and talking points.

Share your #NYTrailTales
Lending your voice in support of the Empire State Trail vision will help ensure that it become a reality. That's why PTNY is introducing #NYTrailTales, a movement calling for all trail users and lovers to tell us how they use the state's trails. What is your favorite trail activity? What trail plans do you have for the coming year? Where will you go when new sections of the Empire State Trail are done?

Share your #NYTrailTales, or post your trail story to social media and include the hashtag #NYTrailTales. Your enthusiasm can make a difference. You'll also be entered to win some cool Erie Canalway Trail bike swag!

Want to do more?
In addition to sharing your #NYTrailTales story, expressing your support to your state legislator in a phone call or letter, or sending a letter to your local paper will help to ensure that funding for the Empire State Trail is included in the final state budget.

PTNY will be providing virtual advocacy resources in the coming weeks. Check the Empire State Trail Day registration page for updates.