How We Got Here
Strategic Plan
In January 2000, former Governor George Pataki announced his idea to establish a one-of-a-kind research and education institute dedicated to the study of rivers and estuaries worldwide, headquartered on the banks of the Hudson River. He established a commission of more than sixty experts and practitioners, including both regional and national leaders in science and education, plus representation from five state agencies, to develop a detailed strategic plan for the Institute. Published in July 2001, the plan formed the backbone for the mission and long-term vision of the Institute and is being referenced and updated as programs and operations grow.
Headquarters Site Selection
Following the release of the strategic plan, site nominations were solicited from all Hudson Valley municipalities plus interested private individuals and organizations. An intensive review process of an initial list of over twenty proposed sites led to the Governor's announcement in April 2003 that Beacon, New York would host the Institute's headquarter facilities.
Previously known as the Rivers and Estuaries Center, the Institute formally adopted its new name, "The Beacon Institute for Rivers and Estuaries," in March 2006, symbolizing the commitment to its chosen home and the region that surrounds it.
The Beacon Institute is nearing completion of Building One, which will be renamed the Center for Environmental Innovation and Education (CEIE). This education and visitor's center is located within the footprint of existing buildings near the entrance to the Denning's Point State Park's public walking trail . The Center for Advanced Environmental Research (CAER) is sited nearby. These properties, in the heart of the city's active waterfront, are adjacent to Scenic Hudson's Beacon Landing property. Accessible walking and biking paths link this north site directly to Denning's Point.
Upper Hudson Facilities
The Beacon Institute recently announced plans to create the Upper Hudson Research Center at Troy, in collaboration with Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and the City of Troy. This a state-of-the-art, 11,000 square foot environmental research facility along the Hudson River in South Troy will launch new scientific educational and research initiatives, monitor and protect the Hudson River, and improve public access to the waterfront.
