Ulster County Legislature Chairman Richard A. Gerentine has announced that Ulster County has been awarded $865,775 through Environmental Protection Fund Grants.

"I can not thank Governor Pataki enough for his continued support of Ulster County and for his endless ability to recognize the need for funding these projects, not only here but throughout the State of New York," said Chairman Gerentine.

The total grant will be distributed in the following manor: $315,075 of the grant is for the restoration of the historic Ulster County Courthouse in Kingston. Chairman Gerentine noted that "the courthouse is an important part of our history. It is where the New York State Constitution was originally drafted. It is also the site where John Jay was elected Supreme Court Judge and Governor Clinton was sworn into office as the first Governor of New York State. It is also the site where Sojourner Truth legally fought for and won her son’s freedom." The Ulster County Courthouse is listed on the State and National Register of Historic Places.

A second portion of the grant, $350,000 is for the restoration of the bluestone Sanctuary of the Old Dutch Church. The Old Dutch Church is at the center of Kingston’s uptown business district. The remaining $200,700 has been awarded to the Town of Marlborough for remediation, park development and the construction of a picnic pavilion for the Milton Railroad Station Park.

Chairman Gerenetine has also stated that "these projects are very important to the continued restoration and preservation of historic sites and facilities throughout Ulster County. Governor Pataki has shown great leadership in making sure the heritage of the Hudson Valley is preserved for future generations and that the historic City of Kingston will continue to play a major role in New York State’s future."

Chairman Gerentine would also like to thank Senator William Larkin and Senator John Bonacic for their continued support of Ulster County. "Their presence combined with our efforts has kept Ulster County on the forefront of progress," concluded Gerentine.