FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 23, 2004

SCHUMER, CLINTON SECURE $250,000 FOR SOUTHERN TIER SPORTS AND RECREATION CENTER

New omnibus appropriations report includes $250,000 to develop indoor sports
field house facility

US Senators Charles E. Schumer and Hillary Rodham Clinton today announced that they have secured $250,000 to develop an indoor sports field house facility in Vestal. The funding was included in the Omnibus conference report passed by the Senate today. The report, which also passed the House, now awaits the President's signature.

"When families and businesses think about locating to a new area, one of the first things they look for are recreational facilities," Schumer said. "This center has the potential not only to boost the quality of life for Greater Binghamton residents, but to become a magnet for others to come to the area – providing the shot in the arm the local economy needs right now."

"I am so pleased to announce these funds because I believe it is important that our young people have a safe and well equipped facility to enjoy their free time. Once completed, the Sports and Recreation Center will not only give our young people a place to play, but it will provide an important boost to the economy of the Southern Tier," Clinton said. "I was proud to work side by side with Senator Schumer and the rest of the New York Delegation on this. I am disappointed that the bill contained other provisions that I feel were harmful to the people of New York, but I am happy that we can move ahead on this."

The Senators said that the funds would be used to develop the Indoor Sports and Recreation Center and Community Center Complex. Since there is currently no facility in the Greater Binghamton area of this type, development of the field house facility will be a unique addition to the area. The facility will enhance the quality of life by improving the opportunities for youth and adults to participate in athletic and recreational activities during the winter months.

The availability of quality athletic and recreational facilities such as the one planned is a factor in the decision of businesses and families to locate in the area. The facility as planned would be of a quality as to attract out of town participants for weekend tournaments and events thus providing another boost to the stagnant local economy. The facility in full operation could have up to ten full time equivalent jobs and other part time jobs associated with its operation and could also provide internship opportunities for sports management majors at area colleges.

The organization has a stated long term objective to invest surplus funds from operations over and above that necessary to maintain reasonable user fees and facility maintenance and improvements back into the community to improve athletic and recreational facilities in general, thereby potentially reducing the burden on local government.

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