Posted March 7, 2008
ENCOURAGING PROGRESS ON FORMER WILLSBORO SCHOOL

Eli Schwartzberg, Adirondack native and principal of Stonebrook Properties, recently met with the Willsboro School Board and expressed optimism and a commitment to continue moving forward on the potential renovation of the former Willsboro School.

Mr. Schwartzberg shared the results of his evaluations thus far. He explained that extensive systems, environmental, and structural studies have been completed. His current focus has been to determine the highest and best use for the building, the extent of the renovation costs, and a market study to verify that there is sufficient demand to make the project viable. He is also working on the steps necessary for compliance with the requirements of local, state, and federal permitting agencies that could be involved in the project.

After conducting a market study examining several alternatives that would best meet the needs of the community and of the region, Mr. Schwartzberg believes that a moderately priced, continued care, senior living facility would be the best way to satisfy a community need while simultaneously utilizing the former school. The location of the former School is ideal for seniors who would be able to enjoy the beauty of the river and surrounding Nature Conservancy land while having easy access to churches, restaurants, shops, the library, the historic heritage center, and other community organizations. The senior facility will create new jobs for the local community and add additional energy to the downtown. Mr. Schwartzberg wants to preserve the character of the old school throughout the renovation and has a goal of designing the facility in a manner that promotes both senior citizen and local community interaction. He is also proud of the fact that by reusing the old building, the new use will be considered a “green” project.
Mr. Schwartzberg envisions a community in which seniors could transition through different levels of care throughout their adult life. Seniors would have an opportunity to choose the type of housing that best meets their current needs. These could include assisted living opportunities in the former school for those who need more of a helping hand in their daily lives as well as independent living apartments built on the land behind the school.

Mr. Schwartzberg stated, “It does not make sense that senior citizens should have to move out of the North Country to a new community once they are no longer capable of living independently. I want to provide a community where a senior’s friends, aids, and surroundings do not change just because they face new life challenges”. The school building could also include a center for senior activities for the community at large.

On behalf of the Willsboro Central School Board, School Superintendent Steve Broadwell expressed his enthusiasm for the proposed project stating that “Mr. Schwartzberg has been excellent to work with throughout this process of assessment andanalysis of the viability of the project. He has a real vision for the future of the community, and the project has very exciting possibilities for Willsboro, Essex and all of the surrounding towns.”

Mr. Schwartzberg plans to hold a meeting with all interested community members to share the results of his analysis as well as his plan for the future. In the meantime, he would welcome comments and ideas. “This is going to be a very challenging and expensive project. The school is at a critical point where something needs to be done soon or it will be beyond the point of repair.” Mr. Schwartzberg also stated that he is optimistic that with the communities’ support “we can bring the old school back to life”. He also stated, “One of our greatest challenges in successfully renovating the former school will be to demonstrate that there is a need”.

Mr. Schwartzberg strongly encourages anyone with interest in living in the future community or knows of someone who would be interested to contact: Stonebrook Properties at info@stonebrookproperties.net or leave a message at 536-9007.

County Looking to Add Willsboro and Essex to Bus Routes
By Darren R Darrah

Higher gas prices with better coordination and marketing attribute to the County to consider adding Willsboro to the public transportation system. County employees living in the area currently car pool to Elizabethtown and now with employees of General Composites commuting from Port Henry, Moriah and Vermont a real need is apparent. Nancy Dougal, Essex County Transportation Coordinator states that there has been a steady increase in requests for a northern route. Dougal said if everything falls into place the  service could start by June.

The proposed route will include a stop at the Essex Ferry dock, Sheehan’s Trailer Park and the Commonwealth parking lot.

The County’s public transportation system (CHAMP) is funded through grants and the State Transportation Operations Assistance (STOA) program paying 69 cents per mile and an additional 40.5 cents per rider. The busses are purchased through a 90 percent capital grant with the County giving a 10 percent match.

Estimated fees for one-way are a $1 from Willsboro to Elizabethtown or $2 to Wal-Mart.

Anyone interested in utilizing the service are encouraged to complete a survey/request form available by calling Nancy Dougal at  the Public Works Department in Lewis (873-3689 or by printing a copy from www.WillsboroNY.com/compendium.

New York State Route 22 - Willsboro Mountain
"This route is the main artery into and out of both Willsboro and Essex- this road is a travesty and must be fixed". states one resident.   DOT is estimating only $7.169 million for the project and work to start in 2009

A total reconstruction will not happen. The removal of the 1920's under-lying road made of concrete.  The concrete is the culprit to the overall problem, the roadway was constructed to accommodate the older/smaller automobiles of the time.  Today, The newer pavement placed over the concrete heaves during the winter and breaks away on the shoulders making traveling this route both uncomfortable and dangerous. Adding extended shoulders would allow for a bike route ensuring a safer means for the ever growing bike traffic but that is not in the plan either.

Contract "letting" is Local residents and visitors are urged to contact their government representatives...

Assemblywoman Teresa Sayward, saywart@assembly.state.ny.us 

Sen. Elizabeth "Betty" Little, little@senate.state.ny.us