Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park is made possible by a dynamic public-private partnership between three entities: the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, the New York State Bridge Authority, and the independent nonprofit Friends of the Walkway.
Each organization plays a distinct and essential role in keeping the world’s longest elevated pedestrian bridge safe, welcoming, and vibrant, making it a true asset to the communities of Poughkeepsie, Highland, the Hudson Valley, and beyond.
Walkway’s success is the result of this dynamic collaboration, with Friends of the Walkway providing essential programming, visitor services, and enhancements - all funded entirely by donations and grants.
Our partnership is what makes the Walkway more than a bridge—it’s a model for collaborative stewardship.
Our Partnership In Action
As an independent 501(c)3 nonprofit, Friends of the Walkway receives no annual state or federal funding. Instead, it brings the park to life through:
- Public events and programs
- Accessibility initiatives (such as operating the park’s electric tram)
- Volunteer coordination and community engagement
- Interpretive signage, branding, social media, and visitor communications
- Capital fundraising for major park improvements—including welcome centers, wayfinding signage, and other permanent infrastructure improvements
Friends of the Walkway also creates opportunities for private contributions and community participation, helping shape the evolution of the park as a world-class destination for recreation, tourism, and public connection.
The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation is responsible for the daily operations of Walkway Over the Hudson, part of the Taconic Region of the New York State Parks system.
Their key responsibilities include:
- Providing park rangers and security personnel to keep visitors safe and informed
- Maintaining all public spaces, including restrooms, welcome centers, and walking surfaces
- Landscaping and beautification of the park entrances and approaches with seasonal plantings and flowers
- Managing vendors and concessions that serve guests throughout the park
- Handling park repairs and critical maintenance on a daily basis
The New York State Bridge Authority ensures that Walkway Over the Hudson - originally constructed in 1889 - remains structurally sound and safe for the more than 600,000 visitors it welcomes annually.
Their work includes:
- Conducting regular inspections of the bridge’s superstructure
- Managing major structural maintenance and repairs
- Ensuring long-term integrity of the bridge that supports the park