New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S01375

Introduced
1/9/25  
Refer
1/9/25  

Caption

Requires the office of parks, recreation and historic preservation to establish design standards for greenway trails and to manage applications for greenway trails.

Summary

Bill S01375 aims to amend the Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Law by directing the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation to establish uniform design standards for greenway trails. The bill defines 'greenway trails' as shared-use paths that are separated from roadways and vehicle traffic, ensuring they are suitable for non-motorized transportation and recreational activities. It also empowers the office to manage applications for new trails and modifications, with the authority to deny applications that do not conform to the established standards.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would create a standardized framework for the development and management of greenway trails across New York State. This would likely enhance the safety and usability of these trails, as they would adhere to best practices in design and construction. The bill also establishes a process for public accountability by requiring written justifications for any application denials to be posted online, potentially increasing transparency in the management of state-funded trails.

Sentiment

The sentiment around Bill S01375 appears to be generally supportive, as it seeks to improve recreational infrastructure and promote non-motorized transportation options. However, there may be concerns regarding the potential for increased bureaucratic oversight in the application process for trail development, which could lead to delays or complications for local initiatives.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from stakeholders who feel that the new design standards could be overly restrictive or could hinder local efforts to develop trails that meet community needs. Some local governments or organizations may argue that the flexibility to adapt trails to specific local conditions is essential, and they may oppose the imposition of uniform standards that do not account for regional differences.

Companion Bills

NY A07736

Same As Requires the office of parks, recreation and historic preservation to establish design standards for greenway trails and to manage applications for greenway trails.

Previously Filed As

NY A07736

Requires the office of parks, recreation and historic preservation to establish design standards for greenway trails and to manage applications for greenway trails.

NY S603

Funds for Trails and Greenways

NY A07540

Directs CHIPS funds to be used for the purpose of constructing or maintaining bicycle paths, Greenway trails, and other multi-use trails.

NY LD1762

An Act to Protect Recreational Trails by Establishing the Trails for the Future Program

NY S07425

Directs the commissioner of the office of parks, recreation and historic preservation to conduct a legal review for the re-designation of Donald J. Trump State Park, in Putnam and Westchester counties to a new name.

NY S10137

Directs the commissioner of the office of parks, recreation and historic preservation to conduct a legal review for the re-designation of Donald J. Trump State Park, in Putnam and Westchester counties to a new name.

NY S09301

Establishes the New York state park police under the jurisdiction of the commissioner of parks, recreation and historic preservation.

NY A10417

Establishes the New York state park police under the jurisdiction of the commissioner of parks, recreation and historic preservation.

NY S01467

Requires the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation to establish standards for the closing of segments of trails on the Empire state trail, and provide notice of such closings to the public.

NY A07749

Requires the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation to establish standards for the closing of segments of trails on the Empire state trail, and provide notice of such closings to the public.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.