A New Chapter for West Hill: $1.1 Million Grant Launches Nature Center Vision
The Chenango Greenway Conservancy is thrilled to share some truly extraordinary news with our members, partners, and community:
We have been awarded a $1.1 million grant from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s Office of Environmental Justice to establish the West Hill Nature Center—a new hub for outdoor learning, youth programming, and community wellness right here in Norwich.
This is more than a grant.
It is a generational opportunity.
And it will reshape the future of outdoor education in our community.
An Iconic Hillside We Can All Share
If you’ve ever driven up Route 10A, you’ve probably noticed the wide sloping meadow dotted with metal figures across from the willow elephants. That hillside—part of the historic Smith Farm—has been woven into the local imagination for decades. Bill and Patsy Smith, longtime stewards of this land, have championed conservation across Chenango County, including gifting “Patsy’s Riverview,” a beautiful riverside parcel already protected by the Greenway.
Now, in partnership with the Smith family, this iconic landscape will be conserved for generations, becoming the future home of the West Hill Nature Center.
“This award is a dream come true,” shared Sharon Pelosi, Chair of the Chenango Greenway Conservancy Board. “It represents long standing collaboration, community visioning, and a deep belief that access to nature is essential for education, health, and connection.”
What the West Hill Nature Center Will Bring to Our Community
This new center will serve as a vibrant space for:
Year-round environmental education
Youth programs and summer activities
Wellness events and outdoor recreation
Community gatherings and workshops
Expanded trail access connected directly to the Stone Quarry Trails
One of the most exciting elements is the plan to repurpose the existing historic barns into learning spaces, a mountain bike repair hub, and a community event venue—preserving the property’s heritage while opening it to new possibilities.
The Nature Center will also become the third public access point to West Hill, inviting more people into the forests, fields, and ridgeline trails that define Norwich’s western skyline.
A Bright Future for Young Explorers
In many ways, the biggest beneficiaries of this project will be our young people.
“The Norwich City School District is thrilled to celebrate the awarding of this grant,” said Superintendent Scott Ryan. “This investment brings long-overdue educational access to one of our region’s most beautiful natural resources. It will allow us to integrate real-world STEAM experiences into our curriculum while promoting conservation, recreation, and community connection.”
With direct access from the Stone Quarry Trails and dedicated educational spaces, students will be able to explore science, ecology, engineering, and environmental stewardship in meaningful, hands-on ways.
Youth organizations across Chenango County are ready to dive in as well.
“I’m excited for the opportunities this will provide for our local youth,” said Anthony Testani, Youth Bureau Director for the City of Norwich. “It will allow us to expand our programming into hiking, biking, and outdoor activities we’ve never been able to offer before.”
For youth already using the trails, the transition from informal access to a fully supported community space is especially meaningful.
“The kids and coaches from the Galena Growlers Mountain Bike team are really, really excited with the opportunities that the Smith Farm acquisition brings for the team, with the trails, the facilities and future venue to hold events that will bring many, many people from across New York to the Norwich area. For years, the Smiths, Patsy and Chris, with the help of Ron, the caretaker, have been allowing the team to ride the great trails up on the Smith Farm on top of west hill. Now, with the Greenway acquiring the property, great opportunities await that will bring more and more people to Norwich to explore what’s there!! The kids, the coaches and all of the local mountain bikers are excited for what’s to come in the near future!! It’s a great thing for the Norwich area.”— Rob Baker, Galena Growlers Mountain Bike Team
A Community Effort, A Community Win
Revitalizing this historic landscape into a community nature center will take time, collaboration, and shared vision. Funding will be released in stages as renovations, trail enhancements, and educational upgrades progress over the next several years.
The Conservancy will begin early planning and community outreach in the coming months, inviting educators, youth leaders, environmental professionals, and community members to help shape the center’s future.
“This award elevates the entire county,” noted David Carson, Executive Director of Friends of Rogers Environmental Education Center. “We look forward to partnering with the Greenway as they bring this beautiful new resource to life.”
State leaders have also recognized the long-term value this project brings to Norwich and the surrounding region.
“I’m pleased to hear that the Chenango Greenway Conservancy has been awarded this grant, which will bring lasting benefits to Norwich and the surrounding region. The creation of a community and visitor center on West Hill will not only expand opportunities for outdoor education and recreation, but also support local schools, attract visitors, and contribute to the area’s economic vitality. I commend the Chenango Greenway Conservancy, the Norwich City School District, and the Friends of Rogers for their hard work, vision, and deep commitment to strengthening our communities. This project is a great example of how collaboration and dedication can create something truly special for future generations.”— Assemblyman Joseph Angelino
The Greenway’s vision has always been centered on partnership—and now, more than ever, the success of this project will come from the energy and dedication of the people who love this community.
Join Us on This Journey
This is a milestone not just for the Conservancy, but for everyone who believes in access to nature, outdoor learning, and the power of community.
Together, we can create a place that reflects the spirit, resilience, and unity of Chenango County.
See the vision come to life.
Watch this short video highlighting West Hill and its addition to the Chenango Greenway Conservancy.