Madison County announces park-improvement project

NEW WOODSTOCK, N.Y. — Madison County is set to launch the first phase of a project to improve numerous elements at Delphi Falls County Park to improve the experience for local visitors and attract new visitors.

This phase of the project includes upgrades to increase the overall experience for visitors while keeping the natural beauty of the park, which includes a two-tiered waterfall. Upgrades include a new parking lot, restroom, an accessible overlook of the lower falls, and an upgraded entrance sign. The county is also installing a rim trail, with several overlooks added, that lead to the currently inaccessible upper falls. A new bridge will connect both sides of the park, which is located at 2006 Cardner Road in the town of New Woodstock.

“The county is thrilled to begin the process of improving upon the Delphi Falls Park,” Scott Ingmire, director of the county’s planning department, said in a news release. “The upgrades should bring multiple benefits for residents by providing new activities and enhancing access to the natural features of the property. Not only will Delphi Falls continue to be a premier destination for local residents, but the goal is to attract outside visitors to the area as well.”

On June 14, the Madison County Board authorized an agreement with Upstate Companies, LLC for the $1.3 million project. The county received a New York State Parks grant and a SAM/DASNY grant secured by State Senator Rachel May, each worth $500,000. Construction begins July 12.

Madison County used a donation from retired Syracuse University professor Harold Jones to purchase the 66-acre property in 2018. The park includes acres of woodland and riparian forest along the east branch of Limestone Creek, steep gorge walls, and the two-tiered waterwall. The park is open year-round from sunrise to sunset.