Governor Hochul Announces Groundbreaking for $6.6 Million Community Center Expansion in Troy

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the start of construction on a $6.6 million expansion to the Commission on Economic Opportunity's Community Resource Center in Troy. The Community Resource Center Bridge will offer early childhood education, youth and senior programming, and nutrition and wellness services.

"Everyone in New York deserves access to the resources they need to achieve success," Governor Hochul said. "Community centers are vital for delivering essential services like early childhood education, after school programming, and activities that keep seniors engaged and healthy. The expanded Community Resource Center is a significant investment that will provide the residents of Troy with vital services for decades to come."

The project is supported by a $5 million award to the Commission on Economic Opportunity for the Greater Capital Region, Inc. through New York's allocation of federal Community Development Block Grant CARES Act funding. New York State Homes and Community Renewal is administering the CDBG-CARES program.

CEO will use the funding to construct an addition to its existing facility located at 2328 5th Avenue in downtown Troy. The expansion will provide space for three early childhood classrooms, an outdoor space to provide community services, and a community room.

The project will help to respond to the challenges CEO experienced throughout the COVID-19 pandemic such as social distancing, provision of in-person services, ventilation, safe outdoor space, and proper technology for remote operations.

The federal Community Development Block Grant CARES Act funding was allocated to states in 2020 to support community projects that address pandemic-related health and safety issues and improve public services.

New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, "The expansion of the Community Resource Center in Troy will benefit thousands of residents by providing much-needed programs in a safe and healthy environment. Throughout the pandemic, nonprofits and municipalities across the state have been grappling with complex operational challenges and a rise in demand for services. Our $5 million CDBG CARES award will go a long way to helping the Commission on Economic Opportunity expand their reach and better fulfill their mission to empower the people of Troy."

Senator Chuck Schumer said, "Investing in Troy's youth is investing in the future of the Capital Region, and I am proud to deliver the $5 million in federal funding to boost the community, its families, seniors, and most importantly the children of Troy. When I negotiated the CARES Act, it was long overdue investments - like this desperately needed expansion of the community center- that I had at the top of my mind. Now Troy will finally have the state-of-the art community gathering space it has long deserved."

Representative Paul Tonko said, "In the midst of the COVID pandemic, Congress worked swiftly to advance the CARES Act to bolster our economy and provide a lifeline to our families, small businesses, and communities. I am ecstatic to see that funding being delivered to our Capital Region. This project will serve the residents of Troy well, with support for early childhood learning, senior services, and more. I look forward to continuing to push for policies that boost community revitalization and make our region a better place."

State Senator Neil Breslin said, "The expansion of the Commission on Economic Opportunity's Community Resource Center will provide great community benefits to the people of Troy. I applaud both Governor Hochul and Homes and Community Renewal for their commitment to expanding early childhood education opportunities, as well as additional youth and senior programming that will now be available for people throughout our community."

Assemblymember John T. McDonald III, said, "The Commission on Economic Opportunity provides individuals and families with tools they can use to enrich their lives and lift themselves out of poverty. This community center expansion will allow CEO to upgrade and modernize their facilities and programmatic services allowing significant improvements that will impact everyone from older adults to young children. Thank you to Governor Hochul and Homes and Community Renewal for continuing to invest in projects that will expand crucial programs and services that will significantly improve the community."

Mayor of the City of Troy Patrick Madden said, "We are extremely grateful to Governor Hochul for this important investment in our young residents. The pandemic took a toll on all of us - none more so than our youth who lost important educational and social experiences. The city applauds CEO for its initiative in developing this Community Center and the State of New York for supporting their work. This is truly an investment in our future."

Katherine Maciol, CEO and President of CEO, said, "We are incredibly excited about the potential this building will bring to our community and the residents of Troy. This indoor and outdoor space will provide the opportunity to meet the wellness needs of the community by offering trainings, classes, family educational initiatives, celebrations, and so much more. It will help establish a much-needed service hub here by the Hoosick Street Corridor. The pandemic has been tough on our communities, but this building marks a new era of exciting opportunities for CEO and our customers."