Wappinger Votes to Preserve Cranberry Hill, Ending 50 Years of Development Proposals

Cranberry Hill Preserve: Hot Commodity in Town of Wappinger

Over the last few days officials in the Town of Wappinger have been having discussions regarding Cranberry Hill Preserve.

The 326-acres of lands sits right behind Roy C. Ketcham High School and has been a hot commodity for over 50 years.

During a town hall meeting on March 23rd, 2026, officials discussed turning the land into open space an passive recreation that would connect local neighborhoods. More importantly it would stop any future "high density developments."

The Town of Wappinger explains in a statement shared on social media that Cranberry Hills "has been at the center of repeated development proposals dating back to 1976, when 473 units were first proposed."

Historic Decision Made in Town of Wappinger

The most recent project for Cranberry Hills "called for as many as 1,200 multi-family units" that the Town of Wappinger states "would have dramatically altered the character, infrastructure, and quality of life across the Town."

However, a  landmark decision was just made back on March 26th, 2026.

The Wappinger Town Board "voted unanimously to acquire and permanently preserve the 326-acre property known as Cranberry Hills-ending nearly 50 years of uncertainty and protecting the community for large-scale development."

The Town of Wappinger call it a defining moment as the Wappinger Town Board has "taken decisive action to eliminate a long-standing threat and secure a lasting benefit for the entire community."

Now that Cranberry Hills has been preserved the Town of Wappinger will avoid "significant long-term impacts, including: Approximately 1,500 additional daily car trips" as well as:

60–90 EMS calls annually
45–75 fire calls annually
75–100 new students entering the school system
45,000 gallons per day in water demand

What To Expect at Cranberry Hills

Since conversations about conserving Cranberry Hill began, local officials have shared their hope to turn the land into a  "Central Park of Wappingers" if you will.

Town of Wappinger Supervisor Joseph Cavaccini said in a statement “This is not just about stopping something—it’s about creating something better." Cavaccini added:

“This is our opportunity to establish a ‘Central Park of Wappinger’—a space that connects neighborhoods, enhances quality of life, and serves as a lasting asset for generations to come.”

We'll keep you updated with any additional information about Cranberry Hill preserve in the future.

To watch the full Town Board Meeting visit TownofWappinger.gov. Read the full statement below: