Walkway Over The Hudson Continues Bringing Communities Together

POUGHKEEPSIE, NY — A derelict railroad bridge over the Hudson River that was likely destined for demolition has become the Walkway Over the Hudson — a world-class destination for hikers, bikers and people from all over the mid-Hudson Valley and the United States.

From 1889 until 1974, the Poughkeepsie-Highland Railroad Bridge provided an economic engine to the region, transporting raw materials to industrial centers in the east as well as serving tourists, students and residents who were shuttling back and forth from New Paltz to Poughkeepsie.

At its peak, as many as 3,500 rail cars made their way over the bridge every day.

That is, until 1974, when a fire — likely started by a spark from a train’s brakes — destroyed the tracks, according to information from the walkway organization.

Then in 2009, the rebuilt Walkway Over the Hudson held opening ceremonies 212 feet above the Hudson River — in the middle of the 1.28 mile long linear state park.

That was when the walkway once again linked both sides of the river and began to help revive the local economy. It also reclaimed its place as a focal point in the history of Poughkeepsie and the mid-Hudson Valley.

Walkway Executive Director Lori Robertson said that, to date, there have been more than 7 million visitors to the walkway. There were 600,000 in the past year alone.

"We’ve had guests from all 50 states and over 55 countries," she told Patch. "It really is this destination spot."

Robertson said the Marist Institute for Public Opinion in Poughkeepsie conducted a poll that found 94 percent of people said the walkway improves the community, gives people a chance to be physically active and outdoors, and helps to generate the local economy.

And the walkway isn't just a static state park — it's now a place where people return — sometimes daily — to take part in activities that have become traditions.

One event series is Walkway at Night, Robertson said, during which people come to gaze at the stars from a unique vantage point.

There are also two annual farmers markets, done during the high-peak tourist season, numerous fundraising walks and runs and fireworks with the city of Poughkeepsie.

The fireworks are spectacular from view from the bridge, Robertson said, adding that it's an overwhelmingly popular event.

Adding to the experience of being at the walkway, she said that visitors will undoubtedly notice folks who are wearing red vests. They are the walkway's ambassadors who help people who may be physically challenged, sell souvenirs and answer questions anyone may have.

"We really see the walkway as a community project," Robertson said, "and that makes it a unique space."

The Walkway Over the Hudson is open, weather permitting, daily from 7 a.m. until sunset, which is now around 5 p.m. The walkway is open later as the days get longer.

Both the Poughkeepsie and Highland entrances are handicapped-accessible — no stairs are required. There is also a 21-story, handicapped-accessible glass-enclosed elevator, which is currently closed for the winter.