RRA Seeks to Create Rowing Facility in Village Parking Lot

The Nyack Marina parking lot may be yielding more room to boating activities.

The (RRA) is asking the village board for permission to construct a rowing and paddling facility in the area. The structure would house the RRA's shells and oars and cost somewhere between $30,000 and $100,000, RRA officials said. The project would be financed by the RRA, who would then lease the space from the village.

A letter to the village explains the project would be a springboard for revitalizing the riverfront, and also remove the dirt pile—at no expense to taxpayers—that currently sits in the parking lot.

"The RRA... is willing to commit significant human and financial resources to helping make this happen," the letter reads. "Historically, in the late 1800s to the mid 1900s, the Nyack Rowing Association boathouse graced the shores of the Hudson, however, its use was limited exclusively to the members of this prestigious rowing club or private ship builders. Today, a community facility could make Nyack a destination for all types of Hudson River activities."

The facility would entail a one-story, pavilion-like structure and be able to hold rowing shells up to 60 feet in length. It would include bike racks, drains, electrical outlets and outdoor lighting, but no restrooms. Additionally, the RRA is requesting three spaces be reserved for rowing staff or rowers.

Richard Kavesh, Nyack's mayor, said the village is looking over the proposal and will address the project in coming board meetings.