During the recent Town of Red Hook Board of Trustees meeting, discussions centered on the potential acquisition of the Edgewater Estate in Barrytown, a topic that has raised significant concerns among board members and community stakeholders. The estate, now associated with the Richard Hampton Jenrette Foundation, has been highlighted for its historical significance but is deemed financially impractical for the town to acquire.

Board members pointed out that the costs associated with purchasing and maintaining the Edgewater site would be prohibitive. Additionally, the estate does not offer public recreational access to the Hudson River, which limits its utility for community activities such as boating. The shoreline lacks deepwater access and necessary infrastructure for public use, further complicating any potential acquisition.

The foundation, which aims to promote historic preservation and attract tourism, emphasizes the architectural and historical value of the property. However, the town of Red Hook does not have the capacity to manage or maintain such historic sites, as it is not equipped to provide educational services related to preservation.

Further discussions revealed that other parcels of land in the area, primarily consisting of single-family dwellings, also lack public access to the river. These properties are mostly accessible via private roads, limiting their potential for community development or recreational use. The board concluded that there are no viable options for establishing a town dock or park area along the Hudson River within the current land constraints.

The meeting underscored the challenges facing the town in balancing historical preservation with community needs and financial realities. As the board continues to navigate these issues, the focus remains on finding sustainable solutions that benefit the residents of Red Hook while respecting the region's historical significance.