New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation Heritage Areas System Bureau Program Planning Files

Numerical by project number.

The New York State Heritage Areas System was initially established in 1977 as the New York State Urban Cultural Parks System pursuant to Chapter 727, Laws of 1977, codified as Title G (Articles 31-35) of the Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation Law. It was amended by Chapter 541, Laws of 1982, where "Urban Cultural Parks" were renamed "Heritage Areas." It was again amended by Chapter 666, Laws of 1997.

The purpose of the Heritage Areas System is to develop, preserve, and promote the state's cultural and natural resources "as an expression of our state's heritage." The program relies on various partnerships between state and local government agencies, non-government organizations, and the private sector to achieve goals related to historic preservation, educational interpretation, recreation, and appropriate economic development. Visitor centers are established in each heritage area along with park facilities and interpretive signage. Under the auspices of the agency and created pursuant to Section 33, a 21-member Heritage Areas Advisory Council oversees and advises the system. In addition, representatives of all heritage areas have formed an independent not-for-profit Heritage Areas Association of New York State.

This series consists of planning documents and correspondence related to the creation, development, and evolution of the New York State Heritage Areas Program and New York State Urban Cultural Parks Program. Records include purpose/objectives of the program, suggested community designations and legislative structure as well as marketing plans, feasibility studies, and annual reports. Some published documents are also included.

Folder list.

There are no restrictions regarding access to or use of the material.