Rockland County legislators have unanimously approved the acquisition of three properties, totaling nearly 47 acres, to expand South Mountain County Park. This move will also preserve a historic home and property dating back to the mid-1700s, listed on the National Registry of Historic Places.
The approved purchase includes 5.8 acres at 63 South Mountain Road, 4.03 acres at 71 South Mountain Road, and 37.08 acres at 101 Old Route 304, all located in New City. The first two properties will be incorporated into South Mountain County Park, which straddles the scenic ridge between Clarkstown and Haverstraw.
Funded through the County’s ARPA program, the parcels are being acquired for $3.78 million. The Town of Clarkstown will reimburse the County approximately $1.131 million, securing ownership of about 39 percent of the Old Route 304 parcel. The Rockland County Farm Alliance is expected to operate this parcel, similar to the current operations at Cropsey Community Farm.
The Old Route 304 property features a Dutch sandstone home, known as the Peter DePew House, dating to the mid-1700s. This historic site, listed on the National Registry of Historic Places, includes a two-story barn and additional outbuildings.
South Mountain County Park is a vital habitat for various wildlife and flora and plays a crucial role in protecting the aquifers and streams that feed into Lake Deforest Reservoir, a primary drinking water source for Rockland County residents and businesses.
A significant benefit of expanding the park is the addition of two new loop trails connecting to the existing Long Path. Currently, park users must retrace their steps instead of completing a loop. The new parcels will provide additional access points to the park and the Long Path, enhancing the user experience, according to Kevin McGuinness, the County’s Division of Environmental Resources Coordinator.
Since its inception, Rockland’s Open Space Program has preserved over 1,200 acres. The program, active from 1999 through 2010 and relaunched in 2020, has facilitated access to the Hudson River, protected wetlands, preserved scenic vistas, and safeguarded properties like Cropsey farm. These efforts have also preserved floodplains and steep slopes, providing public access to various parklands.
For more information about South Mountain Park, including its access points, please visit South Mountain Park Information.
