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A grand reopening ceremony celebrating the rebuilding and renovation of Fleischmann Pier and Charles Point Park in Peekskill will be held on Sunday, Oct. 13 from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. on John Walsh Boulevard, officials announced on Wednesday, Oct. 9.
The almost 500-foot-long pier will be able to accommodate large vessels, two floating docks for smaller boats, and an accessible kayak launch. Benches and viewing devices have also been installed, city officials said, adding that the pier will allow new visitors to arrive in the city by boat.
"The rebuilding of Fleischmann Pier and Charles Point Park opens up an entirely new potential for tourism and economic development in Peekskill,” said Peekskill Business Improvement District Executive Director Bill Powers, who continued, "With the arrival of boats--big and small--visitors will disembark to discover what Peekskill has to offer: fine dining, rich history, outstanding entertainment, and amazing public art."
According to city officials, the Fleischmann Pier was once an important part of the Fleischmann Company's operations, which were a major economic force in Peekskill. The company, which at one point was the largest yeast manufacturer in the world, had a facility spanning 65 acres by 1915.
The original pier was built in 1938 to transport molasses, which is a crucial ingredient in yeast production.
Now, decades later, the pier now has a new life thanks to the New York State Department of State Environmental Protection Fund – Local Waterfront Revitalization Program Grant and the city's Downtown Revitalization Initiative.
Charles Point Park also has new enhancements, including a larger parking lot, concession area, bus drop-off, a new gazebo and trellis, and the installation of a restroom later this fall.
"Fleischmann Pier and Charles Point Park are an asset to our waterfront, and we are extremely grateful to have this here in our city," said Peekskill Mayor Vivian McKenzie, who added, "I would like to thank our Planning Department and all of our city staff for all their hard work in making these projects come to life.”
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