Watch the News Conference Here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gi6NvMGuVMY
To commemorate the completion of the $3.4 million capital project, Westchester County Executive George Latimer held a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Tarrytown Lighthouse unveiling the historic structure’s revamped and rehabilitated interior and exterior. This event also coincided with the 150th anniversary of the Town of Sleepy Hollow.
Latimer said: “The Tarrytown Lighthouse is one of the most well-known landmarks in Westchester County. This capital project is another example of an existing destination that the County is restoring and refurbishing so that it can be enjoyed again by current and future residents. Having the Lighthouse completed in time to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Sleepy Hollow is a great way to mark this historic occasion.”
This rehabilitation project is part of continued efforts by Latimer to rebuild Westchester’s infrastructure in order to enhance the quality of life for those who call Westchester County home. Similar projects include the total restoration of Memorial Field in Mount Vernon, the Miller House in North White Plains, a new Family Court building in New Rochelle, the rehabilitation of the Sprain Ridge Pools in Yonkers, historic investment in Playland Park in Rye, and various other physical infrastructure like roads and bridges County-wide.
The restoration of the Lighthouse included exterior repairs and repainting, addressing caisson cracks, window and door replacement, cleaning and re-pointing of the foundation masonry, refurbishing of the interior plaster and painting finishes, restoring the wood floors, reconstruction of the intermediate landing between the bridge and gangway, a new security gate on the mainland, and new electric exterior lighting.
The Lighthouse, which was built in 1883, is a “sparkplug” lighthouse, whose superstructure rests on concrete and metal caisson. The capital project restored the lighthouse to its original and most authentic rendition, which is from the time period between 1937-1976, when it was still in active service and its physical exterior was what it is now. The Tarrytown Lighthouse was built in response to pleas by local steamship companies for assistance in navigating dangerous shoals. It’s the only conical steel structure in Westchester to include living quarters for its keepers. Once the Tappan Zee Bridge was built, the lighthouse was considered obsolete and taken out of service in 1961.
Westchester County Board of Legislators Chairman Vedat Gashi said: “The Tarrytown Lighthouse restoration project highlights our commitment to preserving Westchester’s historical landmarks. Thanks to County Executive George Latimer, the Tarrytown Lighthouse will continue to shine as a beacon of Westchester’s rich heritage and community spirit. It’s a privilege to see this structure revitalized for the enjoyment of both current and future generations.”
Westchester County Legislator Margaret Cunzio said: “I am thrilled that the Lighthouse has been renovated and brought back to its pristine condition. It will serve as a beacon of light on the Hudson River in Sleepy Hollow for all to appreciate. Just as a lighthouse is used to guide ships through rough waters – it reminds us to navigate our lives here in Westchester County with purpose and clarity.”
Westchester County Department of Parks, Recreation and Conservation Commissioner Kathy O’Connor said: “The restoration of the Tarrytown Lighthouse will breathe new life into Kingsland Point Park, and I look forward to residents enjoying it once again.”
Sleepy Hollow Mayor Martin Rutyna said: “Thanks to the leadership of Westchester County Executive George Latimer, the residents of Sleepy Hollow can once again enjoy this iconic landmark that has been keeping constant and silent vigil over Sleepy Hollow since 1883. That this rededication is taking place during the 150th anniversary of our incorporation deepens our appreciation for the history that the lighthouse and all the ships that have passed here represent. For the first time in over a century, residents can walk along the entirety of the shoreline that we share with the Hudson River, something that the industrial use of this site prevented. We look forward to our continued work with the County to preserve and protect this scenic, recreational and cultural treasure.”
Mt. Pleasant Town Supervisor Carl Fulgenzi said: “As we celebrate the reopening of the Tarrytown Lighthouse, we honor not only a remarkable feat of restoration but also a symbol of our community’s heritage. The Lighthouse, which has stood since 1883, played a crucial role in guiding ships safely along the Hudson River, protecting mariners from the dangerous shoals nearby. For the residents of Sleepy Hollow and Mount Pleasant, this structure is a beacon of our shared history. Its restoration ensures that future generations can appreciate the Lighthouse’s legacy.”