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Work Completed to Make Staten Island Parks More Accessible to Disabled

By Nicholas Rizzi | September 23, 2016 3:33pm | Updated on September 26, 2016 8:23am
 The state completed projects to make Mount Loretto Unique Area, North Mount Loretto State Forest, Saint Francis Woodlands and Lemon Creek Park more accessible.
The state completed projects to make Mount Loretto Unique Area, North Mount Loretto State Forest, Saint Francis Woodlands and Lemon Creek Park more accessible.
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DNAinfo/Nicholas Rizzi

STATEN ISLAND — Improvements to four Staten Island parks including additions of wheel chair accessible trails and parking spaces for the disabled have been completed.

The state's Department of Environmental Conservation announced the completion of projects at Mount Loretto Unique Area, North Mount Loretto State Forest, Saint Francis Woodlands and Lemon Creek.

"All New Yorkers should have the opportunity to access state lands and enjoy these landscapes. More accessible trails, parking and walkways will give visitors better access to state lands, which is a DEC priority," Steve Zahn, Region 2 director for the DEC, said in a statement.

The projects, funded by the governor's NY Works Program, include:

► $192,000 to expand the parking lots at Mount Loretto to fit 25 cars, including two handicapped spaces, building 500 feet of accessible trail and a new fishing/view platform at Mount Loretto Pond.

► $200,596 at North Mount Loretto State Forest to add 850 feet of accessible trail, resurfacing 1,600 feet of trail and resurfacing the parking lot.

► $84,404 to replace the cobble stone walkway around the pond at Saint Francis Woodlands with accessible trail. Also, improving fishing accessibility at Priory Pond and a new parking lot on Helena Road.

► $75,000 to build an accessible trail leading to the shore of Lemon Creek and improving access to canoe or kayak launches.