At the foundational level of engagement, the project team collaborates closely with a Steering Group that comprises New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, and Empire State Development. The Steering Group serves as the decision-making body for the project and provides guidance on project context and effective engagement approaches.
The Steering Group actively engages with State, City, and County agencies and property owners to align the park’s development with public projects, infrastructure plans, and property considerations. This coordination is vital for addressing access, remediation, and programming needs.
City & State Agencies
The project team collaborates with Monroe County, the City of Rochester, and other public agencies to gather feedback on adjacent projects and explore potential coordination opportunities. Multiple adjacent projects surround the site, each at varying stages of development. Consistent communication early on aims to effectively integrate design constraints and other considerations. These adjacent projects will also play a significant role in shaping programming considerations for High Falls State Park.
Property Owners
The High Falls site itself is composed of diverse properties, and adjacent properties are equally diverse. Consistent communication is essential for adjacent properties to establish pathways for convenient and safe site access, boundary definition, and programming coordination.
Parcel ownership on the site will directly influence land remediation and acquisition strategies and project timelines. Discussions with property owners will continue throughout the project’s lifespan to ensure the creation of a practical, functional, and meaningful park.