New plans unveiled by the Green Island Power Authority for its proposed expansion of the Green Island hydro plant now include recreational and tourist facilities.

The plan calls for expanding the hydroplant from 7 to 48 megawatts.The proposals, which include adding a promenade to the exterior of the powerhouse, extending shoreline access to an existing nearby park, creating an observatory hall and adding fishing platforms are thought to help in GIPA's fight for expansion.

GIPA wants to raise the capacity of the Hudson River plant from seven to 48 megawatts, and is also seeking to build a second hydro plant on the Mohawk River in Cohoes. According to the Times Union, because hydro plants use a public natural resource, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission typically wants the operators to show how the public will benefit if it issues a new license.

An open house at the Green lsland plant explaining the expansion plans will be hosted by GIPA on Sept. 19.