Hudson Heritage Bringing Fresh Options Closer to Campus

The project will build on land with a rich history in the Hudson Valley.

ShopRite on Opening Day. Source: Sam Murphy '24

Hudson Heritage will provide an abundance of amenities to the Marist College community and greater Dutchess County when it begins opening this October.

The 156-acre mixed-use project will host options for housing, dining, shopping, entertainment and health care less than half a mile north of Marist’s campus, creating an all-inclusive experience for patrons. The project intends to “meet and exceed the needs and expectations of users in the 2020s and beyond” while building on land with a rich history.

One hundred fifty years ago, the Hudson River State Hospital opened. At the time of completion in 1871, it was flaunted as a shiny, new psychiatric center, a model for healthcare reform in 19th century America. In 1872, the New York Times called it “serene” and “luxurious.” According to Hudson Valley Magazine, it was built as a “campus with elegant gothic buildings,” the hospital saw its heyday in the 1950s.

After the movement of resources and changes in the field of psychology, the hospital officially closed in 2000. Since then, lightning strikes, intentional fires, and decay led its once majestic look to be in dire need of a makeover. 

A handful of different developers and $300 million later, the 300-acre land plot has its next assignment.

Hudson Heritage is the answer to the question “I wonder what they’re going to put in there” many have been asking for years traveling on Route 9.

“Marist has maintained ongoing communication with the developers of the Hudson Heritage Project,” said Dr. Geoffrey Brackett, Marist’s Executive Vice President and Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer. “Although we have been in consultation with the builders about what would benefit the community, Marist is not involved financially in the project.”

On Sunday, Oct. 3, ShopRite will be the first business open at Hudson Heritage. Chipotle, Burger King, Starbucks and Smoothie King will also be available in the shopping complex.

“There’s not a lot close to campus if you don’t have a car,” said Hayden Moore ‘24. “I think being able to go across campus and get Chipotle is a great option.”

Hudson Heritage will be much more than just a shopping mall.

Seven hundred fifty residential units will be available on the grounds, consisting of multi-family homes and townhouses. In addition, Hudson Heritage will also offer Independent and Assisted Living for those of age and in need.

Around 150 hotel rooms will be available, with ample conference space as Hudson Heritage looks to attract business travelers while stimulating tourism in Dutchess County. 

Forty thousand square feet will be allocated for medical and office space.

After receiving exterior restorations, a piece of the original hospital will remain as the historic “Kirkbride” Administrative Building gets transformed into an arts and entertainment and educational center. There will also be an on-site daycare facility targeting working parents.

Finally, on the north end of Hudson Heritage will be the 18-acre Great Lawn. The large open area is a National Historic Landmark and will feature 3.8 miles of walking, running and bike trails.

Hudson Heritage is owned by EFG/Saber Heritage SC, LLC, a joint venture between Saber Real Estate North, LLC and EnviroFinance Group, LLC. The two companies specialize in retail, residential and mixed-use projects and adaptive reuse of former institutional and industrial properties, respectively. Saber Real Estate did not respond to the Circle’s request for comment.