There is exciting news to share that promises to reshape our city and leave a lasting mark on Central Park. As a civil engineer by trade and a long-time member of the New York State Assembly’s Committee on Energy, I couldn’t be more thrilled to announce the securing of $500,000 in funding for a project that will breathe new life into the long-vacant Central Park “casino” building.

This project holds a special place in my heart because it aligns perfectly with my commitment to sustainable practices and my dedication to advancing our community. We’re not just revitalizing a historic structure; we’re investing in our future, nurturing environmental responsibility, and empowering our youth to become stewards of our natural world.

The iconic Central Park “casino” building will be reborn as the Central Park Environmental Education Center. This center will serve as a hub for youth education programs throughout our city’s park system. It’s more than just a renovation; it’s a visionary initiative designed to foster learning, growth, and innovation.

The Central Park Environmental Education Center will be a beacon of knowledge, a community resource, and a place of inspiration. Here, our youth and residents will have the opportunity to delve into critical topics such as water quality issues, renewable energy, and local environmental concerns. It will be a space where curiosity thrives, ideas flourish, and future leaders emerge

What sets this project apart is our unwavering commitment to sustainability. The Central Park Environmental Education Center is designed to be a carbon-neutral facility, producing all the energy it needs to operate. It’s not just talk; it’s a tangible step towards reducing our carbon footprint and setting an example for others to follow. In Schenectady, we’re dedicated to environmental justice and being a Climate-Smart Community.

This project is about more than just bricks and mortar; it’s about partnerships and community engagement. We’re thrilled to announce that the programs at the center will be operated by the Schoharie River Center, in collaboration with Community Fathers Inc., the Environmental Clearinghouse of Schenectady, and the Upper Union Neighborhood Association. Together, we’ll ensure that the community is fully engaged and that the center becomes a vibrant space for learning and growth.

What’s more, this resource will be available every day, year-round. We’re determined to keep the doors of opportunity wide open for our youth and the entire community. Our commitment to education knows no bounds.

The Central Park Environmental Education Center embodies what we can achieve when we come together with a shared vision for a better tomorrow. This project epitomizes the spirit of Schenectady—a city that embraces environmental responsibility, community engagement, and the boundless potential of our youth.

Let’s look forward to a brighter, more sustainable future for our great city. Together, we will create a legacy of knowledge, empowerment, and environmental stewardship for generations to come.