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Parks and Recreation Announces Accessible Trail Project and Summer Program Updates

The Town of Putnam Valley Parks and Recreation Department continues to expand recreational opportunities, improve accessibility, and prepare for a busy summer season. Current efforts include pursuing grant funding for a new accessible trail system, advancing a forestry management initiative, and finalizing summer programs, camps, and community events.

Accessible Trail System Project

The department has formally submitted its first grant application to support the development of a new trail system at Town Park, with a decision expected in May.

The focus of the project is to create a trail designed using ADA and Architectural Barriers Act (ABA) accessibility recommendations. While fully ADA compliant trails are rare due to natural terrain, the goal is to create a wheelchair accessible experience that allows more residents to enjoy the park’s natural features.

Plans include:

  • A new handicap accessible parking area at the end of South Street, behind the Union Field facility

  • A crushed stone trail extending approximately 100 yards to Oscawana Brook

  • An additional 75 yard stretch along the water’s edge

  • Scenic overlooks and rest areas along the route

  • Installation of appropriate safety barriers

The project will also include upgrades to existing trails throughout Town Park.

Forestry Management Project

The department is also working on a forestry management project for both Town Park and the Camp facility, with implementation anticipated to begin this fall.

This project is being developed in cooperation with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and will provide several benefits, including:

  • Sustainable production and harvest of forest products, generating potential revenue for the Town

  • Improved recreational and educational opportunities

  • Maintenance and enhancement of existing trails

  • Long term protection and preservation of forestland

Summer Programs and Events

Planning is currently underway for the Town’s summer concert series, which will begin July 2 and continue every Thursday through the end of August, weather permitting. Most concerts will begin at 7 PM, with special events scheduled separately.

Sports and specialty camps have also been announced. This year’s offerings include:

  • Soccer

  • Volleyball

  • Musical Theatre

  • Tennis

  • Boys Basketball

  • Girls Basketball

  • Cheer

  • Baseball

  • Football

  • Taekwondo

Additional programs are updated regularly at www.pvpr.com.

Summer Day Camp Registration

Early bird registration for Summer Day Camp opens March 23 at 8 AM.

Due to health department and state capacity limits, enrollment typically fills very quickly, often within 24 to 48 hours. Once capacity is reached, a waiting list will be established.

Residents are encouraged to register early and visit the website for full details.

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Parks and Recreation Projects, Programs, and 2026 Updates

The Putnam Valley Parks and Recreation Department is actively working on several improvement projects while preparing programs and facilities for the upcoming year.

Park Improvement Projects

Two major projects are currently underway.

The first is the development of a comprehensive forest management plan for both the Town Park and camp properties. This plan focuses on the sustainable production and harvest of forest resources, expanded recreational and educational opportunities, improved trail maintenance, and the long term protection of forestland. These efforts help preserve the many benefits our natural spaces provide, including clean air, clean water, and carbon storage.

The second project will enhance accessibility and the overall trail experience at the Town Park. Plans include making the existing trail system ADA accessible, creating more clearly defined pathways, and adding rest areas and scenic viewpoints along Peekskill Hollow Creek. The department is pursuing funding for this work through the Municipal Parks and Recreation Grant Program.

Parks and Facilities

In addition to regular maintenance during the offseason, the department is currently scheduling facility use and reservations for 2026.

Camps and Programs

Summer sports camps and seasonal programming are now in development, with details to be posted on the department website as plans are finalized.

Registration for Summer Day Camp will open during the last week of March.

The department’s largest program, youth basketball, is currently in progress, and additional programs are updated regularly online.

Employment Opportunities

Parks and Recreation is always seeking team members to support its programs and services. Current opportunities include child care staff, camp counselors, bus drivers, and lifeguards.

For program updates, registrations, and job opportunities, visit pvpr.com.

Frank DiMarco
Parks and Recreation Director
Town of Putnam Valley