Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger delivered her 2025 State of the County address recently at SUNY Ulster, highlighting progress on affordable housing, mental health services, climate resilience, and economic growth.
"We’re investing in meeting our residents’ immediate needs while strengthening the foundations for a sustainable, resilient, and thriving Ulster County,” Metzger said.
Among the key initiatives:
Affordable Housing: Metzger announced that county-supported housing projects will add nearly 500 affordable homes, including the Golden Hill project in Kingston, which is ahead of schedule with move-ins expected as early as November. Other projects include the Quality Inn redevelopment by RUPCO in the Town of Ulster, Silver Gardens in Highland, and initiatives in New Paltz, Hurley, and Saugerties.
Mental Health and Substance Use: A new crisis support center will open this spring in Kingston, and a state-funded outreach team is helping homeless individuals with severe mental health challenges. The county has also allocated $250,000 in opioid settlement funds to create a supportive residence.
Transportation: UCAT ridership hit a record 500,000 riders in 2024, and Metzger intends to keep the service free. A route optimization plan will roll out over the next three years, beginning with more frequent service between New Paltz and Kingston.
Climate Resilience: The county is electrifying its bus fleet and expanding EV infrastructure with new charging hubs in Ellenville, Ulster, and Boiceville. An $18 million Decarbonization Reserve is funding energy-efficient upgrades to county buildings.
Economic Development: The county is supporting agriculture through the 2024 Agricultural and Farmland Protection Plan and a proposed $500,000 revolving loan fund. For small businesses, a $1.2 million loan fund will offer low-interest loans this year.
Recreation and Arts: Recent trail projects include extensions of the O&W rail trail and the long-awaited O&W Connector Trail to Kingston. Local parks are also receiving $1.7 million in improvements. Additionally, Metzger announced the completion of the county’s first Arts and Culture Master Plan, set to be presented to the Legislature in April.
The address concluded with a performance by student pianist Annabelle Brutvan and a ceremonial Posting of the Colors by the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office Honor Guard. Recordings of the event are available on the Ulster County Executive’s Facebook page and YouTube channel.