Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo (D-Endwell) unveiled the plans for “The Stage at Little Italy,” during the 3rd annual Gusto! celebration in Endicott on Friday, August 21, 2009. She was joined by Village of Endicott Mayor John Bertoni and Jon Sarra, Co-President of the Oak Hill Avenue Improvement Corporation.

“The Stage at Little Italy will be available to people and organizations to rent for various parties and functions,” said Assemblywoman Lupardo, a member of the New York Conference of Italian-American State Legislators. “It will give us a chance to celebrate our Italian heritage, as well as the history and culture of Endicott."

Assemblywoman Lupardo secured $250,000 in funding for the project, which will be located in George W. Johnson Park. The Village of Endicott plans to use “The Stage at Little Italy” for performances and public gatherings.

The cupola atop the Stage at Little Italy was modeled after the cupola on the original wooden band shell at the park. Haas Landscape Architects developed the design for The Stage with assistance from Keystone Associates.

Construction is scheduled to begin shortly and should be completed in early fall. The construction firm Joe Orlando & Son Contracting Co., Inc. has been awarded the contract to erect the stage. Beams are being fabricated by Unadilla Laminated Products.