Hudson Valley Program
Positioning Highland Falls as a thriving hub of opportunity and community by leading strategic partnerships that strengthen West Point’s alliance with the Hudson Valley to activate its full potential and transform the gateway to West Point. This commitment is reflected through initiatives like CONNECT, a critical program preparing to launch its fifth year and designed to support stronger student outcomes, family stability, and long-term community success.
What We’re Building Together
By harnessing the power of strategic private investment, public-private partnerships, and graduate engagement, we are building a future that honors the past while creating new opportunities for generations to come.
- Mixed-Use Developments that bring new life to Main Street and increase walkability, vibrancy, and local business opportunities
- Strategic Commercial Partnerships that fill infrastructure gaps and foster long-term economic stability
- Affordable & Workforce Housing Initiatives to serve service members, faculty, and local residents
- Chamber of Commerce supports promoting small business growth and entrepreneurial investment
- Cultural and Community Spaces that celebrate the rich history and identity of Highland Falls
Our Approach – We believe revitalization must be:
- Community-Aligned – driven by local input and needs
- Mission-focused – serving the broader goals of West Point
- Sustainable – built to last, economically and environmentally
- Collaborative – fueled by partnerships with developers, investors, local government, and West Point alumni.
Our Impact (So Far)
- Formation and support of a revitalized Highland Falls Chamber of Commerce
- Launch of targeted developer outreach and investment matchmaking efforts
- Strategic planning underway for mixed-use and commercial redevelopment projects near West Point.
CONNECT: Impact
Cadets visit CONNECT program.
Bean & Barrel Launch
447 Main St., Highland Falls, NY
Community Forum
WPAOG held a community forum.
CONNECT: Serving with Impact
The Hudson Valley Program is built to advance partnerships to engage the Hudson Valley, elevate Highland Falls, and enhance the West Point experience—while positioning the community as a thriving hub of opportunity and a gateway that reflects the excellence of the Academy. CONNECT is both a cornerstone program and a critical enabler of this vision.
A comprehensive, outcomes-driven educational initiative serving students in the Highland Falls Intermediate School, CONNECT delivers measurable academic gains, expanded learning time, and consistent mentorship through collaboration with West Point, educators, and community partners. These results are demonstrated through significant gains in Math and English Language Arts proficiency, particularly among economically disadvantaged students.
Aligned with the Link Plan, CONNECT strengthens the surrounding community while activating the convening power of the Long Gray Line—bringing cadets, graduates, and partners together in sustained, mission-driven service.
By reducing childcare costs for working families, improving student achievement, and creating a safe, structured environment for youth, CONNECT reinforces community stability and expands opportunity. This work forms a necessary foundation for long-term economic vitality, supporting broader investments in infrastructure, Main Street revitalization, and waterfront development, while also supporting West Point’s recruitment and retention efforts and the military families who call this community home. Learn more.
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