By Mid-Hudson News Network

POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y. – “Another jewel in the crown” is how more than one person defined the object of three resolutions unanimously adopted by the Poughkeepsie Common Council, setting major direction for the future of the city’s waterfront.

What has not been developed along the waterfront will remain mostly green, thanks to an offer from the Dyson Foundation to purchase about 2.7 acres of former industrial park property for a waterfront park, linking with the Walkway Over the Hudson.

Part of the overall plan also includes major residential development.

Dyson Foundation Executive Vice President Diana Gurieva said their goal is to create something of value for everyone who lives and visits Poughkeepsie.

“That is inclusive of both residents, people who live and work in the city of Poughkeepsie and can use it every day, as well as increasing access for visitors that in particular will be visiting the Walkway,” Gurieva said. “We also felt that it was very important to set a tone for the waterfront that respected and embraced the history of Poughkeepsie and the legacy of communities like Poughkeepsie up and down the river.”

Public comment during Monday night’s lengthy meeting was generally enthusiastic in support of the city’s plan.

City officials shared the enthusiasm, including Mayor John Tkazyik, who noted it was a lengthy and cooperative effort.

“By bringing the right set of individuals together, we are now able to implement this vision,” Tkazyik said.

Dyson will pay the city $675,000 for the property, which the city purchased, amid some controversy, several years ago.

The other part of the waterfront plan is development of part of the former Dutton Lumberyard site for residential use, which will bring tax ratables to the city. The O’Neill-Dutton project will consist of 121 one-bedroom, 227 two-bedroom and 353 three-bedroom residential units. The residential project will partially sit in the neighboring Town of Poughkeepsie. Continued...

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Overall, the waterfront redevelopment will come in five phases, beginning with the residential development and culminating with development of the park.

The proposals will be subject to full city Planning Board review.

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