Regarding community redevelopment, since the 1960’s I’ve watched our community change with increasingly limited ability to solve economic challenges due to limited tax base and no overarching plan except the West Point Association of Graduates (AOG) plan, which adds businesses but not sustainability.

Business sustainability is challenged by the geography, creating “drive around towns”. Past changes, the upgraded library and transition of Ladycliff College were needed but didn’t improve the tax base. Recent upgrades at O’Neill High School, NYS grant plans, and redevelopment plan by AOG are significant but I am not aware of a comprehensive plan.

With recent proposals, concerns were raised about losing the “small town feel” or being autonomous from West Point that people want to preserve. It may be possible to do some of that but time marches, economics fluctuate, and interests continue to evolve. In the past, the Day Liner, Bear Mountain, Army Football and other events benefited Highland Falls and Fort Montgomery, but not as much in recent years.

The improvements planned or in-progress are important to maintain/improve life here, but I think this approach suffers from not being big enough. A comprehensive plan that unifies West Point, Highland Falls, Fort Montgomery, Bear Mountain and maybe Cornwall now that Rt. 218 has reopened could stimulate, revitalize and unify these communities. We live in a beautiful place!

There is so much history here. When I think of places like Boston’s Freedom Trail, Gettysburg, PA, Williamsburg, VA, and Annapolis, MD, I can see the potential. The changes I’m suggesting would need careful management to avoid overwhelming some of what people love about this area, but with careful management there could be some great benefits for all parties.

I see opportunities - not just at Bear Mountain or West Point - but coordinated and connected throughout the communities to benefit all. Here are some ideas: Historic events at West Point, Fort Montgomery, Constitution Island, and the Hudson River; Connect trains by ferry to town marinas; close Route 218 between West Point and Cornwall one or two weekends a month for horse-drawn carriage rides, biking and hiking; conduct regular re-enactments and seasonal/holiday events so businesses don’t experience feast or famine. Expand Long Pond with RV sites/cabins and busing; Create bike/hike trails starting at Bear Mountain Bridge Motel toward O’Neill High School to link Fort Montgomery, Highland Falls and West Point with pedestrian bridges crossing 9W.

The old Trading Post property could be developed into a restaurant/visitor center with views; establish marinas/restaurants on the river; and between Main St. and South Post open a Winery/Distillery/Brewery/Event Center. Consider shifting the idea of the school mascot to a “Raider” based on colonial history; Use the O’Neill yearbook name of “The Highlander” to create school pipe bands/community theater/reenactments ala Museum Village to share our Revolutionary history and have an overarching theme for businesses.

In short, there is so much potential here! Making the Highlands a destination could revitalize the community - creating funding, jobs and opportunities for new memories and traditions.