Local Firm Completes Work at Lake Taghkanic State Park

New contemporary look will greet the public

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ANCRAM, NY (05/23/2008)(readMedia)-- As campers, hikers and swimmers venture back out into the wilderness after a long winter, those going to the Lake Taghkanic State Park will be experiencing something new. Saratoga Associates, a landscape architecture, planning, engineering and architecture firm has completed design work on the west bathhouse and beach at the park and the public will notice the improvements.

Contracted by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, Saratoga Associates provided complete design services through construction for architectural and site improvements to the bathhouse and beach. “We worked closely with Parks officials to bring a new look and feel to this beautiful park,” said Chris Smith, Senior Associate at Saratoga Associates. “We wanted to portray a more contemporary look to the bathhouse, while at the same time we wanted to blend it in with the surrounding environment. This was done by adding wood to the façade of the new building as well as earth tones to give it that open and natural feel.”

The previous, seasonal structure was completely renovated for year-round occupancy that will house the Parks main office, changing room, bathroom facilities and concessions. The site was also heavily renovated to better serve the public with improved circulation, more efficient mechanical systems and a more attractive appearance.

“Our goal was to create a more inviting atmosphere,” said Smith. “When you drove up to the old building you were met with a solid grey brick wall, we created a two sided building with new amenities available which are more in tune with what people are expecting from their parks today.”

Hundreds of thousands of people visit the Lake Taghkanic State Park each year, which is nestled next to Lake Taghkanic in the rolling hills and lush forests of Columbia County and offers a wonderful variety of recreational activities. The park has tent and trailer campsites and cabin and cottage camping facilities, two beaches, picnic grounds and a boat launch. In addition, the park has hiking, biking, cross-country ski and snowmobile trails. In 2005, Lake Taghkanic State Park was named one of the Top 100 Campgrounds in the country. With offices in Saratoga Springs and New York City, Saratoga Associates is one of the premier consulting firms in the region. Saratoga Associates has been creating compelling destinations, enriching communities and safeguarding special places for 40 years. For more information go to: www.saratogaassociates.com

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