Scenic Hudson collaborates with community members, municipalities, and partner organizations to deepen relationships between residents and nature in cities. Our practice is rooted in fun, healthy urban ecosystems and thriving public spaces that support community well-being in Kingston, Newburgh, and Poughkeepsie. 

Since precolonial times, these three communities have been shaped by shifting tides of peoples, cultures, stewardship, and industry — all set within the natural systems of the Hudson River estuary. We focus on collaborations that build on these cities’ rich histories, help to heal past harms, and benefit residents and visitors.

The River Cities Program strives to:

• Combine our skills and capabilities with community knowledge and expertise to increase access to open space
• Grow partnerships that engage local residents, advance community-led initiatives and neighborhood stabilization efforts, and enhance community health and well-being
• Connect young people with conservation through community science and opportunities to spend time outside
• Shape healthy urban ecosystems by engaging community members, scientists, and designers in urban trail and park development 
• Advance equitable access to healthy food, clean air and water, and nature-based experiences
• Identify shared challenges faced by riverfront cities throughout the valley and explore joint opportunities to overcome them

Want to get involved? Find upcoming events and volunteer opportunities, or explore our city projects below.