Community Rallies Behind Hudson-Athens Lighthouse After Barge Collision
With a new dock in place restoration efforts can continue
Last October, Our mother publication Chronogram wrote about the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse's $7.5 million restoration project on the occasion of its 150th anniversary. When a barge struck the historic lighthouse on April 30, damaging the structure’s stairway and access dock, it threatened to halt a years-long restoration effort just as it was gaining momentum.
But the community responded swiftly. Among the first to act was Keith Flinton of KTF Dock Worx. The moment he heard about the collision, he felt a personal connection—his father had built and donated the original dock to the lighthouse decades ago. “I knew I had to do something,” Flinton says. In both recognition of the landmark's importance and a tribute to his father, Flinton offered to build and donate a temporary dock, free of charge.
The barge that hit the lighthouse was operated by Carver Marine Towing, which took responsibility for retrieving the damaged dock from the river and delivering it to Flinton’s workshop. Using it as a pattern, Flinton worked quickly to fabricate the temporary replacement.
The new dock was floated to the lighthousen and installed on Thursday, May 8, just a week after the collision. Assembed by a team including Flinton, the Hudson Power Boat Association, AG Construction, and the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse Preservation Society (HALPS) the temporary dock restores crucial access so that preservation work can resume. Plans for a permanent dock are still in the works.
Divers have already completed an underwater inspection to assess potential foundation damage. A full report is still forthcoming. Temporary stairs are expected to be installed to allow roof repairs to move forward.
“This isn’t just a project—it’s a living story of care, community, and continuity,” says Van Calhoun of the Lighthouse Restoration Committee. “Thanks to Keith, and everyone pitching in, we’re still on course.”
The Hudson-Athens Lighthouse has stood sentinel at the meeting point of Greene and Columbia counties since 1874. Now, with the help of generous local businesses and volunteers, its restoration efforts continue.
Fundraising also continues for the $7.5 million restoration project. To learn more, visit HALPS.org.
