This petition is supporting the Town of Goshen allowing the acquisition of the 31-acre parcel adjacent to the historical cave site from the Orange County Legislature for the purpose of protecting a National Treasure and for use as a town park... Some of the oldest caves ever found in North America.. right here in Goshen, New York.

Introduction:

The Town of Goshen has approved a resolution allowing the acquisition of the 31-acre parcel adjacent to the historical caves near the Tilcon Mining site, for use as a Town Park. The next crucial step is to secure approval from the Orange County Executive and Orange County NY Legislators for the sale of their land to Goshen. This development offers an opportunity to halt the 80-year-old mining expansion, bringing an end to the operation sooner and protecting the environment.

The Dangers from Mining: 

• Tilcon's mining operations are impacting the air quality Goshen families and children are breathing causing concerns about potential health risks and respiratory issues for residents in the area.
• The odors emanating from the quarry mining operations have grown progressively more offensive and noxious, impacting the surrounding environment and community's quality of life.
• There is fear that continued rock blasting by Tilcon will weaken and perhaps destroy the caves that were inhabited over 12,000 years ago
• Tilcon pays nominal royalty on rock that is mined on Orange County property providing no economic value to area residents

Why should I sign this petition? 

• The Town of Goshen is interested in creating a park and/or educational center on the county land
• Transforming the quarry into a park or educational center promises to significantly enhance our community, providing a recreational and informative hub that will benefit both area residents and visitors while promoting a healthier and more vibrant neighborhood
• One of Orange County's top priorities in their 2024 budget and plan is creating and expanding on the open space.
• Let's protect this historical site listed on the National Register of Historic Places

What can I do to help? 

• Sign the petition and show your support
• Share this petition on social media and across your network
• Contact your legislator here: Orange County website. Enter your address to find your local representative and contact them via email and phone to show your support. 
• Write a letter to our local editors: (a) Dirt Magazine: editor.dirt@struanews.com (b) Indy/Chronicle: letters@chronicle.com (c) THR: Letter@th-record.com
• Support NY Bill S4544, which allows industrial development agencies (IDA) to make grants to municipalities for open space preservation, parkland improvements and conversation easements. Click here to support the bill.  

Who can I contact to get involved or with more questions?

Email: SavetheCavesNY@gmail.com