A new mural celebrating the proposed one-mile Regional Connector walking and biking path was unveiled in Newburgh on Thursday, Oct. 24. The mural, located at the Newburgh-Beacon Bridge entrance on Grand Avenue, features the phrase “Connecting Communities” alongside a regional map.

The proposed Regional Connector project aims to link the Metro-North station across the Hudson River in Beacon with the Newburgh-Beacon Bridge, providing safer, non-vehicular access for thousands of residents and commuters in Dutchess and Orange counties. The mural reflects community support for sustainable connectivity and raises awareness for the $6 million project, which seeks to enhance regional trail networks.

Naomi Hersson-Ringskog, president of The Fullerton in Newburgh, and Thomas Wright, chair of the Greenway Trail Committee in Beacon, attended the unveiling with colleagues from across the state and region. The Fullerton acted as the project’s fiscal sponsor, backed by a grant from the Hudson Gateway Association of Realtors (HGAR) and the National Association of Realtors.

“The title Connecting Communities really says it all, because that is our goal—to link five communities in this region, representing about 125,000 people, with trail networks being planned across the region,” Wright said. “The bike and pedestrian networks have the potential to transform how people experience where they live.”

Hersson-Ringskog praised the collaboration between various community stewards, emphasizing the need for safe biking and pedestrian infrastructure. “This vision is gradually coming to life thanks to different partners, but it’s crucial that we secure safe, accessible infrastructure—whether that means lighting, protected lanes, or designated routes,” she said. “We can’t expect people to navigate these places without it.”

Officials from the New York State Bridge Authority (NYSBA) attended the event, including Director Minosca Alcantara, Public Information Director Chris Steber, Deputy Executive Director Lauren Melendez, Commissioner Michael O’Brien, and Manager of Special Projects Olive Cadet. Steber praised the NYSBA maintenance crew for their work in preparing the site, saying, “This mural beautifies the space and encourages people to consider alternative ways to access this bridge, whether they’re out for a recreational ride or commuting across the bridge.”

Steber noted his long-standing connection with Hersson-Ringskog, which led to several site improvements, including a new bike repair station and the removal of the bridge’s curfew in 2022, making it accessible 24/7.

HGAR attendees included President Carmen Bauman, President-Elect Vlora Sejdi, Board Member Nan Palumbo, Chief Operating Officer Jana Currier, Government Affairs Director Alex Roithmayr, and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer Freddimir Garcia. The Dutchess County Association of Realtors was represented by Executive Officer John Grennan.

“Naomi and Thomas approached us with this idea, and as associations deeply committed to the community, it piqued our interest right away,” Garcia said. “We pursued grants to help make this happen, allowing us to connect communities more visibly and meaningfully.”

Grennan expressed optimism for the project’s impact. “I’m grateful and excited to see this potential being realized,” he said. “This project helps bridge the gap across the Hudson River, providing one more access point to connect both sides.”

The proposal’s regional map was designed by As The Crow Walks Studio, and the mural was created by Colorcube Print Co., both based in Newburgh.