By Erika Norton, WPAOG Senior Multimedia Journalist

The West Point Association of Graduates held a Community Open Forum in Highland Falls on March 24, where local residents learned about WPAOG’s partnership with the local government and had the opportunity to ask questions and share perspectives on the future economic development of their town.

Community members had the opportunity to talk with WPAOG’S President & CEO Mark Bieger ’91, Highland Falls Mayor Jim DiSalvo, West Point Garrison Commander COL Daniel R. Stuewe, and Town of Highlands Supervisor Mervin (Bob) Livsey. Erin Helle ’09, Executive Director of WPAOG’s Hudson Valley Program, led the discussion at the Malek West Point Visitors Center, emphasizing a continued effort of transparency between West Point and the Highland Falls community, and shared some of the successes of the program.

“Our program exists to build partnerships,” Helle said. “We want to elevate this amazing community, and none of that happens without you. This is a shared effort, and tonight is where we get to celebrate some of that.”

So far, the Hudson Valley Program has helped four businesses open in Highland Falls, including Park Restaurant, Westy’s, Annie’s Attic, and Bean & Barrel. According to Helle, these businesses have created over 45 new jobs and generated approximately $1.2 million in taxable revenue in less than a year. Other successes include HVP’s partnership with the village to support over 60 families with Christmas gifts and providing food for families during the government shutdown.

Bieger shared some of the potential future projects for HVP and the program’s interest in the revitalization of the marina.

“We’re looking for partners that have the community’s best interest, first and foremost, but that Marina offers some amazing opportunities,” Bieger said. “No secret, it’s been vibrant in the past, and we’re hoping to bring the right people together to bring that vibrancy back for the benefit of the town.

DiSalvo discussed with residents some of the challenges the town faces and how HVP is working with leaders to combat those challenges, from the land-locked nature of the area, to some of the aging town infrastructure. Longtime Highland Falls resident and former board member Mervin (Bob) Livsey, Jr. shared his optimism about the HVP partnership.

“I know the mayor, the town supervisor, and AOG knows infrastructure and water,” Livsey Jr. said. “Of course, it’s a concern, and I know you all know it’s a concern, and all the residents that are in this community as well, but I am confident that there’ll be some solutions for what we’re going to do. I really appreciate what you’re doing now. I’m excited about it. I’m excited about the relationship with West Point.”

Feedback also included praise for the CONNECT program, HVP’s after-school program that serves students in grades 3-8 within the Highland Falls Intermediate School. The program provides academic support and learning opportunities to Town of Highlands students, as well as mentorship opportunities and physical activities.

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