HYDE PARK, NY – During its March 9th meeting, the Hyde Park Town Board celebrated community service and local heritage, honoring a long-time school bus driver and presenting a major archaeological study on one of the Hudson Valley’s most significant African-American historical sites.
Honoring 20 Years of Service
The Board awarded Thomas Germano Sr. a certificate of appreciation for his 20-year tenure as a school bus driver. Supervisor Al Torreggiani commended Germano for his unwavering commitment to the safety of the town’s children and the broader community.
Preserving the New Guinea Community Heritage
Hartgen Archeological Associates presented the findings of a multi-year study on the
New Guinea Community
site, located near Hackett Hill Park. This historic settlement, which thrived from the late 1700s through the mid-1800s, was home to free and formerly enslaved Black residents and served as a vital refuge for those traveling the Underground Railroad.
- Key Findings: Explorations revealed house foundations, ceramics, and stone walls along Fredonia Lane.
- Grant Funding: Under the leadership of Supervisor Torreggiani, the town secured a $33,750 Development of Cultural Resource Grant from the Hudson River Valley Greenway to fund this vital research.
- Exhibits: Artifacts including tools, maps, and original deeds are currently on display at the Hyde Park Historical Society.
“This site remains one of the most important early African American historical sites in the Hudson Valley,” said Supervisor Torreggiani. The full presentation video is available on the Town’s Agenda Center.
Town Updates & Public Safety
Legislative Aide John Lombardi reported on several key initiatives:
- Road Safety: New reduced speed limit signs will be installed on Dorsey Lane by March 13th. Strict enforcement will follow.
- Infrastructure: Survey work has begun to address flooding in Staatsburg near the Library and River and Post Restaurant.
- Emergency Response: The West Clinton and Roosevelt Fire Districts were thanked for their response to a fire at Quaker Hill Estates. Jay Marshall and his sons were commended for their quick action in containing the blaze, as well as Chief Dingee for his swift response.
- Grants & Improvements:
- The Town Court received a $24,000 grant for a new video interpretation system, at no cost to taxpayers.
- Renovations for the Hackett Hill pool and pool house are moving forward following the acquisition of a $1,000,000 grant.
