"Acquiring the Schunnemunk Mountain Ridge is a true milestone in New York State's long and proud history of environmental conservation," Governor Pataki says "By working together, we have created an incredible new state park that expands recreational opportunities in the Hudson Highlands and continues our efforts to protect the best of our outdoor heritage."

The State Department of Environmental Conservation will acquire the property from the Open Space Institute using approximately $2.5 million from the State Environmental Protection Fund. The land will be managed by the State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and will be opened to the public after the state formally closes on the property, New York State officials relate.

Schunnemunk Mountain, with an elevation of approximately 1,700 feet, serves as the natural backdrop for the Storm King Art Center, a leading sculpture park and museum with a collection of 230 sculptures featuring the work of many famous artists.