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Aquatic and Recreation facility in the works

Posted 7/26/22

LOCH SHELDRAKE –– Legislators approved committing $15 million toward a $30 million aquatic and recreation facility at SUNY Sullivan on Thursday. A 25-meterlong, 8-lane pool and a 200- …

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Aquatic and Recreation facility in the works

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LOCH SHELDRAKE –– Legislators approved committing $15 million toward a $30 million aquatic and recreation facility at SUNY Sullivan on Thursday. A 25-meter long, 8-lane pool and a 200- meter track oval will be centerpieces of the indoor arena.

The resolution requests that New York State contribute the other half of the project’s $30 million cost.

That application will be made for the 2023 State budget. The initial dollar amount on the table at the start of Thursday’s meetings, from the County, was $5 million, but after a lengthy discussion, it was decided by the majority of legislators that they should increase it to $15 million given the potential positive impacts on the community, as well as rising cost of materials. The resolution passed by an 8-1 vote, with Legislator Ira Steingart voting no.

Clarifying his vote, Steingart said he does not oppose the project, but wants to better understand it before giving his assent.

“I love the idea. It’s a great project that promises totransform the County,” said Steingart. “I just want to be more certain of the details before we proceed further.”

Legislative Chairman Rob Doherty said the project is all about the County’s future.

“It’s a demonstration of this Legislature’s commitment to make a significant impact on this County’s health, economy and youth,” he said.

“This will be an amazing facility that is very beneficial not only to the college but the community and the County as a whole,” added Legislator

Joe Perrello, in whose district the college sits. “We plan to build it large enough to host special events, conferences and other public gatherings. It will also be available to rent year-round.”

Fallsburg Deputy Supervisor Dr. Sean Wall-Carty said the Town will be working to “support and facilitate commerce” as a result of the project, and that they welcome inquiries from businesspeople by calling 845-434-8810, ext. 5.

“The Rappaport administration is pleased that a majority of the Legislature saw the vision in a project like this. We believe this will add a much-needed economic driver to the area,” said Wall- Carty.

“We are so glad that the County Legislature recognizes the central importance of SUNY Sullivan in the health and future of Sullivan County,” remarked SUNY Sullivan President Jay Quaintance. “This project will ensure not onlyincreased enrollment moving forward but provide a much-needed community hub for years to come. Having our students and community be able to access a state-of-the-art facility like this will transform both the college and the County.”

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  • rross

    This is a fabulous idea. These facilities will serve the community in so many ways. As a mile-a-day swimmer, I can attest to the value of a pool that can provide year-round recreation and exercise. The indoor track will be a great asset to the county schools indoor track programs which currently use the Paul Gerry Fieldhouse at the college which is a great offering by SCCC, but is lacking in much of what is needed for track and field training. I currently drive to Woodloch Springs in Hawley PA to swim during the winter. I wouldn't hesitate to come to the college instead. Let's all get behind this proposal that will enhance the quality of life here in Sullivan County. Bravo to the county legislators for voting for this fine proposal. Now let's see if the state picks up the ball.

    Tuesday, July 26, 2022 Report this

  • 12787jss

    What is the "Rappaport administration"?

    Friday, July 29, 2022 Report this