Ulster County classifies Highmount–Pine Hill rail-trail segment as Type I under SEQRA after SHPO determination

The committee voted to amend the environmental review classification for the Ulster and Delaware (UND) Corridor rail-trail project, a Highmount-to-Pine Hill segment, to a Type I action under the New York State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA) after a State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) finding that the corridor is eligible for listing on the National Register.

Deputy Executive (resource planning) explained that SHPO's finding requires recirculation of the SEQRA notice and an updated environmental assessment form so involved agencies can review the changed classification. "This is necessary due to a finding by SHPO, that the corridor is in a location that's eligible for listing on the national register," the deputy executive said.

Why it matters: a Type I classification triggers a more extensive environmental review and can affect project design, mitigation requirements and permitting timelines. Committee members said the reclassification will help the project design by ensuring historic resources are considered in final plans.

Vote and context

- Committee voted to adopt the SEQRA update and proceed with recirculation.

- Legislator Nolan and others supported the update as a way to incorporate historic considerations into final designs; Director Ryder reminded the committee the corridor had previously been designated for trail use by the legislature.

Ending

The committee approved the SEQRA reclassification and the revised environmental assessment form; staff will notify involved agencies and continue design work for the Highmount–Pine Hill rail-trail segment.