World's Longest Pedestrian Bridge Opens Over Hudson River

RussNelson's Flickr photostream/Creative Commons

The Walkway Over the Hudson opened to the public today, transforming the landmark Poughkeepsie-Highland railroad into the world's longest pedestrian bridge and a majestic linear park over New York's Hudson River.  While attending Vassar College in Poughkeepsie, I loved exploring the gorgeous Hudson Valley, and I can't wait to go back for a visit to walk across the bridge.  The walkway will provide access for walkers, hikers, joggers, bicyclists, and people with disabilities, and will connect the extensive network of trails, parks and communities on both sides of the rivers.

I'm so excited to see that they were able to preserve the beautiful bridge and establish a car-free environment for people to enjoy the river and valley.   Check out the website for Walkway Over the Hudson, the non-profit responsible for restoring the bridge, which offers a history of the bridge, recorded first-hand stories, and plenty of ways to support their efforts, including volunteer opportunities.  You can watch a recording of today's official opening here, and then go outside, go for a walk/hike/bike, and enjoy the day.  It's Saturday!!