ALBANY, N.Y. – Parks & Trails New York applauds Governor Kathy Hochul for signing legislation permanently protecting the Setauket–Port Jefferson Station Greenway, ensuring that this corridor will remain a safe place for walking, bicycling, and enjoying nature for generations to come. We also thank Assemblymember Rebecca Kassay, Senator Monica R. Martinez, Senator Anthony Palumbo, and the many local leaders and advocates whose persistence made this landmark achievement possible.

Paul Steely White, Executive Director of Parks & Trails New York, said, “This is exactly the kind of forward-looking decision that strengthens communities while preserving the places that make New York special. Governor Hochul and the Legislature have demonstrated that conservation, transportation, economic development, and climate action are not competing priorities. They are mutually reinforcing. By permanently protecting this greenway, New York is investing in healthier people, stronger local economies, and a more resilient future.  Parks & Trails New York is proud to have been a strong proponent of this protection, and we are immensely grateful to see this legislation’s passing.”

The Setauket–Port Jefferson Station Greenway has already become a vital community asset, connecting neighborhoods, schools, businesses, parks, and natural areas while serving as an important link in Long Island’s growing regional greenway network. By removing the longstanding possibility of a roadway through the corridor, this legislation provides certainty for surrounding communities and lays the foundation for continued investment in active transportation and outdoor recreation. The legislation also preserves the opportunity for future improvements to Long Island Rail Road service, demonstrating that smart planning can advance both transportation and conservation.

The benefits of greenway trail investment extend well beyond Suffolk County. Parks & Trails New York’s recently released Economic Impact of the Empire State Trail Report found that the state’s 750-mile greenway network is one of New York’s highest-return public investments. The Empire State Trail alone generates $1.87 billion in annual economic output, supports nearly 9,700 jobs, attracts 9.75 million visits each year, and returns $5.43 in economic activity for every public dollar invested. The study also found that off-road trail segments generate four times the economic impact of comparable on-road routes, underscoring the value of permanently protected greenway corridors like Setauket–Port Jefferson.

The legislation also reflects what New Yorkers want to see from the state. PTNY’s upcoming statewide survey of more than 1,500 likely voters found that 73 percent support expanding New York’s network of connected greenways, while nearly six in ten say they would spend more time outdoors if better opportunities existed close to home. The research shows that New Yorkers increasingly view greenways not simply as recreational amenities, but as essential public infrastructure that improves physical and mental health, strengthens communities, and enhances quality of life.

Permanent protection of this corridor is also a meaningful investment in New York’s climate future. Greenways preserve open space, encourage walking and bicycling instead of driving, and help communities become more resilient to climate change. PTNY’s economic impact report found that the Empire State Trail preserves more than 23,300 acres of land, removes more than 78,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide annually, and reduces vehicle travel by more than 96 million miles each year. Expanding and protecting greenway corridors across Long Island and throughout New York will continue to deliver these environmental benefits for decades to come.

As communities across New York advance plans for more than 1,000 additional miles of locally supported greenways, the state’s action demonstrates the kind of leadership that will help ensure every New Yorker has access to safe, connected places to walk, bike, and enjoy the outdoors. Governor Hochul and the Legislature have once again shown that greenways are an investment in New York’s economy, public health, transportation system, and climate resilience.