John Mason is reporting in the Register-Star the Columbia County Board of Supervisors Economic Development Committee gave its support Mon., Jun. 20, to the proposed Skywalk project that would link the Thomas Cole National Historic Site in Catskill with the Olana Historic Site in Greenport. The two-phase project would begin with a sidewalk from the Cole site to the Rip Van Winkle Bridge, and the construction of three view platforms along the bridge's walkway. Phase 1 is anticipated to cost approximately $850,000. The Greene County Legislature authorized the submission of a Consolidated Funding Application for the Skywalk project earlier this month. The second phase of the project would include a sidewalk/walking trail from the bridge to Olana, and possibly an adjoining parking site, as well. Speaking at the committee meeting Monday, Columbia Economic Development Corporation President F. Michael Tucker said the second phase would be completed only if the state Department of Transportation creates a roundabout where Route 9G meets Route 23. He said the trail would likely be a three-season attraction. Olana was the home Frederic Church; Church and his mentor, Cole, were central figures in the Hudson River School of American landscape painters active in the 19th century. Read the full story in the Register-Star.