POUGHKEEPSIE – The first phase of Dutchess County’s urban trail project in the City and Town of Poughkeepsie is open for public use and touting a new official name – the Marcus J. Molinaro Northside Line (MJM Northside Line) – honoring Dutchess County’s seventh County Executive for his commitment to Dutchess County Parks and his service to the County. While serving as Dutchess County Executive, his unofficial slogan was “Marc’s for Parks”, according to soon-retiring County Executive Bill O’Neil.
O’Neil announced the new name Saturday at a gathering on the trail that included Congressman Molinaro (NY-19), Assemblyman Jonathan Jacobson, and City of Poughkeepsie Fire Chief Joe Franco. Franco’s firefighters are the first responders tasked with emergency services on a portion of the existing rail trail and the newly-unveiled MJM Northside spur. The trail extends through the City and Town of Poughkeepsie and is now open for year-round use, every day, around the clock.
The MJM Northside Line is a 16- to 22-foot-wide, dual-lane pathway for pedestrians and cyclists stretching 1.2 miles from the new Hudson Heritage Plaza in the Town of Poughkeepsie to Parker Avenue (State Route 9G) in the City of Poughkeepsie. The trail connects many community assets, providing easy access between housing, jobs, schools, businesses, hospitals and parks, according to county officials. The trail features lighting and is monitored by security cameras and law enforcement patrols to enable safe, 24-hour use, and will be plowed, as necessary, during the winter months. Other amenities include secure bike parking, bench seating and bike-repair stations.
County Executive O’Neil said, “This trail is a fantastic new connection for residents, visitors and students alike. For those looking to save on gas, the Northside Line is a fast, safe path to bike or walk to work or school. And for those looking to get more exercise, this split-use trail is a perfect way to…
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