Saxon Woods Trail Kiosk Created with $20,000 Grant

Friends of Westchester County Parks have unveiled the newest addition to Saxon Woods Park in Scarsdale, an informational trail kiosk.

Joseph Stout, executive director of Friends of Parks was joined by Westchester Deputy County Executive Kevin Plunkett and Con Edison’s Westchester Director of Public Affairs Jane Solnick, to recognize the $20,000 grant from Con Edison, which was put toward Friends of Parks’ Trail Promotion and Environmental Awareness Program. 

Trails are one of the most popular features of Westchester County Parks, however, visitors often find it hard to locate where trails begin. The new informational signage at Saxon Woods will give hikers a bird’s eye view of the parks enabling them to easily locate the parks two large trail loops as well as various smaller trails. Trails are also emblazoned with color-coded trail markers. 

“The generous support from Con Edison has made it possible to create the first of what we envision will become a standard feature in our county’s parks,” said Stout. “Studies have found that park kiosks not only provide information but serve as a focal point at trailheads where hikers can meet and plan their walks. This first kiosk will serve as a prototype of what we will be looking to replicate and will help in attracting sponsors.” 

This is the second grant given to Friends of Parks from Con Edison. 

“We have a strong commitment to the environment at Con Edison and understand the need to support local projects,” said Solnick. “Friends of Parks have been a particularly effective group to work with.  We hope that our partnership with Friends of Parks in this project serve to stimulate additional corporate sponsors.” 

In addition to its trail network, the 700-acre Saxon Woods Park includes an 18-hole golf course, a mini-golf course, the county’s largest swimming pool, a children’s aquatic playground and picnic areas. The trail system extends along the Hutchinson River Parkway and connects the southern and northern open space sections of the property.

“Westchester County residents have demonstrated very strongly that they value our great trail system,” said County Executive Robert P. Astorino. “Thanks to Con Edison for their generous support of the trails, and for leading the way for other businesses and corporations to do the same.” 

For more information about Friends of Westchester County Park or to make a donation please visit friendsofwestchesterparks.com.

Friends of Westchester County Parks is the only organization dedicated exclusively to promoting and supporting Westchester County parks. Friends of Westchester County Parks, which is governed by a Board of Trustees, secures and administers private funds that support the mission of the Westchester County Department of Parks, Recreation and Conservation.

Funds raised through membership fees and donations are used for the sole benefit of Westchester’s