Press Release From Legislature
October 21, 2025
Ulster County Legislature Approves Comprehensive Analysis of Undesignated Section of U&D Corridor
Independent Study Will Provide Fact-Based Assessment of Trail, Rail, and Combined-Use Options
(Kingston, NY) – The Ulster County Legislature voted this evening to authorize a $77,400 contract with Barton and Loguidice to conduct a comprehensive, impartial analysis of the remaining 1.8-mile undesignated section of the Ulster & Delaware (U&D) Corridor between Route 28A and Basin Road.
The study will provide legislators with a thorough, fact-based assessment to guide decision-making on the future use of this corridor section, evaluating three potential scenarios: trail-only development, rail-only development, and combined rail-with-trail development.
“After months of passionate advocacy from both rail and trail supporters, the Legislature needs an independent, comprehensive analysis that gives us the complete picture,” said Peter Criswell, Chair of the Ulster County Legislature and Sponsor of the resolution. “This study will synthesize previous work, conduct new field analysis, and provide detailed cost comparisons so we can make an informed decision that serves the best interests of Ulster County residents.”
The scope of work includes a comprehensive review of all existing studies and reports, evaluation of the county’s legal and regulatory framework, detailed engineering and feasibility assessments, environmental impact analysis including wetlands and protected species, and comparative lifecycle cost estimates for all three scenarios.
Barton and Loguidice was selected for their extensive knowledge of the corridor and their expertise in transportation planning and environmental analysis. The firm will coordinate with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services, NY Natural Heritage Program, and NYSDEC to ensure all environmental constraints are thoroughly evaluated.
“The U&D Corridor Committee worked diligently to gather input and understand the complexities of this decision,” said Legislator Jeff Collins, Chair of the Housing and Transportation Committee and former Chair of the U&D Corridor Committee. “This independent study will build on that foundation with the engineering analysis and comprehensive cost data the Legislature needs to move forward confidently.”
The study will ensure all three options—trail-only, rail-only, and rail-with-trail—are evaluated fairly and thoroughly, with complete transparency about costs, benefits, environmental impacts, and feasibility considerations for each scenario.
Barton and Loguidice will complete their analysis and deliver a final report to the Legislature by July 1, 2026. The firm will present findings at one full Legislature meeting and two committee meetings, with dates to be determined.
The 1.8-mile section under consideration is the last undesignated portion of the U&D Corridor, a former railroad right-of-way that has become a focal point for discussions about balancing recreational trail development with potential rail service restoration.
Background on the Ulster & Delaware Corridor
The Ulster & Delaware Corridor runs through Ulster County and has been the subject of ongoing community discussion about its optimal use. While portions of the corridor have been designated for specific uses, the 1.8-mile section between Route 28A and Basin Road remains undesignated. The corridor has attracted strong advocacy from both trail enthusiasts seeking expanded recreational access and rail advocates supporting the restoration of rail service by the Catskills Mountain Railroad.
