CONGERS, NY — Good news for Rockland County residents who enjoy walking, running, and spending time outdoors. Repair work on the popular Congers Lake Trailway in the Town of Clarkstown is progressing on schedule, with construction now more than halfway complete.

The ongoing project focuses on strengthening sections of the trailway’s boardwalk by installing additional supports underneath the decking to improve its structural stability and safety.

According to the latest project update, construction is moving forward as planned, with repairs expected to be completed by mid-November 2026.Once the work is finished, residents will once again be able to enjoy the complete walking loop around Congers Lake, a popular destination for outdoor recreation in Rockland County.

The Congers Lake Trailway attracts walkers, joggers, families, and nature enthusiasts who visit throughout the year to enjoy scenic views of the lake and surrounding natural landscape. The repair project is intended to restore full access to the trailway while strengthening the boardwalk for continued community use.

Officials thanked residents for their patience during construction and expressed excitement about welcoming visitors back to the entire trail.

With the project now more than halfway finished, the full Congers Lake walking loop is expected to reopen following the completion of repairs in mid-November.

ROCKLAND COUNTY, NY — Rockland County Department of Social Services Commissioner Patrick Frawley will be honored with the Public Interest Law Award from IrishCentral, recognizing nearly three decades of public service spanning law enforcement, the legal profession, and county government.

Frawley, a longtime Rockland County public servant, has dedicated his career to protecting residents, supporting first responders, and serving families throughout the community.

His career in public service began in 1997 when he joined the Orangetown Police Department. Over the following years, he served as a community police officer, school resource officer, and detective, earning more than 40 commendations from organizations including the Town of Orangetown, Rockland County Police Benevolent Association, Police Chiefs’ Association of Rockland County, and American Legion.

Frawley also served as President of the Orangetown Police Benevolent Association, advocating for fellow officers and their families.

While working full-time as a police officer, Frawley continued his education, earning a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Administration and later graduating cum laude from Pace Law School with a Juris Doctor.

He went on to become an attorney admitted to practice in New York, New Jersey, the Eastern and Southern Districts of New York, and the United States Supreme Court.

Following his law enforcement career, Frawley established a legal practice in Orangeburg, representing police unions and first responders throughout the region. His legal work earned him recognition as a Rising Star by Super Lawyers in 2017.

In the aftermath of the 2018 school shooting in Parkland, Florida, Frawley was brought in by the Clarkstown Central School District to help rebuild its school security program, drawing on his experience in law enforcement and legal affairs.

In 2020, Frawley became Chief Assistant District Attorney for Rockland County, overseeing a team of more than 90 prosecutors, investigators, and support staff.

His career took another significant step in June 2026 when Rockland County Executive Ed Day appointed him Commissioner of the Rockland County Department of Social Services (DSS).

In that role, Frawley oversees one of Rockland County’s largest government departments, which provides public assistance, child protective services, adult protective services, and other essential programs supporting thousands of families across the county.

Beyond his professional responsibilities, Frawley remains actively involved in Rockland County’s Irish-American community. He is a member of the Rockland County Police Emerald Society, Division 3 of the Ancient Order of Hibernians in Pearl River, and the Rockland County Friendly Sons of St. Patrick.

His previous honors include a New York State Senate Commendation in 2024 and recognition as Citizen of the Year in 2021.

Frawley was nominated for the Public Interest Law Award by Kevin T. Kelly, who highlighted his continued commitment to public service despite opportunities to pursue a more lucrative career in the private sector.

Judges reviewing his nomination recognized both his extensive legal experience and his dedication to serving others. One judge praised his ability to bring meaningful legal expertise to public service, while another cited his integrity.

The IrishCentral Public Interest Law Award recognizes Frawley’s longstanding contributions to law enforcement, the legal community, and Rockland County government, honoring a career dedicated to public service and helping others.