Hoosic River Revival Receives $25,000

The effort to revitalize the Hoosic River has received a $25,000 boost from the state.

The Berkshire Eagle reports a $25,000 grant, announced Friday by Gov. Charlie Baker's office, will help Hoosic River Revival launch the first phase of redevelopment along the river's southern branch.

The grant recognizes the ongoing commitment of the Commonwealth to the work we do as a priority project for the city and state," said Jason LaForest, executive director of the nonprofit.

It also will help build toward the long-term goal of converting miles of crumbling flood-protection infrastructure into a recreational, ecological and recreational backbone for the city — while continuing to prevent floods.

At present, Hoosic River Revival's primary goal is to negotiate an agreement with the Extreme Model Railroad and Contemporary Architecture museum for use of city-owned land south of the Sons of Italy parcel, work that the grant will support.

The south branch naturalization plan will be complemented by improvements to the nearby recreational facilities around Noel Field.

But the fluid nature of the model railroad museum's plans, which have shifted south from what was initially envisioned, have stalled the Hoosic River Revival's phase one plans for about 18 months.

Negotiations between the two organizations are ongoing. Additional development in the area includes a proposed bike path and the Berkshire Scenic Railway.

The public funds were matched with $50,000 raised from private sources by Hoosic River Revival.

Hoosic River Revival was one of five projects across the state to receive the funding.