In July the Adirondack Common Ground Alliance (CGA) held its 13th annual forum, with the theme Attracting a New Generation to the Adirondack Park . As a result of the discussions at the forum, CGA has released this Blueprint for the Blue Line (BPBL), a summary of recommendations for state actions to benefit the Adirondacks. In addition to the BPBL, our partner in this year’s forum, the Northern Forest Center, is drafting a separate report, Attracting New Residents: A Strategy for the Adirondack Park and its Communities, which will serve as a guide for community leaders, nonprofits, and public entities interested in creating the conditions that help attract a new generation of residents to the Adirondacks.

This BPBL recognizes the State is impacted by an unprecedented world-wide coronavirus and the enormous personal, community, and State economic consequences from that disease. While the Forum identified many opportunities for the State to assist the region in attracting new residents, we are focusing our request on those actions which have the greatest near-term need in mitigating the disastrous consequences of the virus and at the same time have long-term positive impacts on attracting new residents to the Park. Look for subsequent reports that address concerns such as: environmental stewardship, housing, employment, schools, water and sewer, recreation, health care, smart growth, and welcoming communities.

The CGA also recognizes that the Adirondacks is not immune from the problems of racism facing the nation. It is not debatable that Adirondack communities should examine issues of diversity and promote inclusion and equality. We see this as ripe for the common ground approach and welcome opportunity to explore how best to address these issues. Thank you for the opportunity and your consideration of these Adirondack priorities.

HOW CAN THE STATE HELP?

Cellular and Broadband Deployment
This request is not new, but the past several months have made it clear that cellular and broadband coverage in all municipalities and along highways is not just a matter of convenience. It is essential for education (preschool through higher education), telemedicine, tracing Covid 19, attracting newcomers to the Adirondacks, and perhaps convincing those who bought homes in rural areas to escape the Corona Virus to stay. Therefore, we request:

The state should evaluate and map the gaps in both cell service and broadband coverage in the Adirondack Park.

The Governor’s Task Force report on Upstate Rural Cellular must be released as a vehicle for putting NYS at the head of the Federal line for Infrastructure Funding. This could position NYS to lead the nation in technology buildout, but the time is now and the Adirondacks simply can’t wait. It is time for a state commitment and deadline for implementation.

Childcare
Childcare is essential for working parents who must work but have children who may not be able to attend school or have access to professional care as well as for attracting a new generation to the Adirondacks when both parents have to work. Therefore, we request:

Support Families – Facilitated Enrollment to expand child care subsidy for working families. Commit to creating a legislative add in NYS budget of $1.5 million for the Facilitated Enrollment for the Adirondacks.

Support Programs – Advocate for CARES money to go directly to childcare providers. Immediate cash infusion into programs and long-term investment.

Support the Profession – Streamline and solidify a pipeline for the development of childcare businesses, beginning with recruitment of new providers.

Extend funding for the Adirondack Diversity Initiative
In its first year, the Adirondack Diversity Initiative’s work has gained urgency for addressing structural racism in the Adirondacks. Demand for ADI services has surged as subsequent incidents within Adirondack communities revealed the depth of intolerance here.  As we address becoming welcoming communities, we mean welcoming to all. Therefore, we request:

Expand funding of the Adirondack Diversity Initiative to include support and outreach staff that will allow ADI to serve increasing demand.

Build on this momentum by requiring cultural consciousness programs throughout New York State agencies based on the groundbreaking work of ADI.

Expand funding to deal with the increased use of the High Peaks in the Forest Preserve
Concerns over the health impacts of Covid 19 have resulted in an unexpected substantial increase in the use of the land and waters of the Adirondack Park, which were already showing problems associated with use that exceeded the carrying capacity. Therefore, we request:

The Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics published a report calling on the state to invest more in managing the trails and crowds in the Adirondacks. We request the state to heed this report and increase EPF dollars going to protection of the Forest Preserve

The High Peaks Strategic Planning Advisory Group has also submitted preliminary recommendations for managing visitor use and increasing investment in stewardship. Therefore, in addition to EPF funds we request passage of the Renew Mother Nature Bond Act and direction of a portion of these funds to ameliorating problems of increased use of the Forest reserve.

Stay informed about CGA’s efforts to move these important initiatives forward through our website and regular e-newsletters.

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