Town and county officials were on hand early Friday afternoon for the official grand opening of the new Deerpark Senior Center and Highway Garage. The construction phase of the project was completed this past week and the building is ready for occupancy. It replaces the current senior center located at 231 Route 209 and the current highway garage located next to Deerpark Town Hall.
“This project is 30 years in the making,” said Deerpark Supervisor Karl A. Brabenec. “We are so happy to finally have a good home for our hard working highway department employees and a beautiful and large meeting place for our senior population.”
The building project was started last October upon receiving approval for a 15 year bond on the project. To supplement the total cost, a $200,000 grant from the Orange County Community Development office was obtained and $25,000 grant was provided by New York State Senator John J. Bonacic. The project was built without having to raise the town’s tax levy.
The Deerpark Town Board officially named the senior portion of the building after former town supervisor Robert W. Cunningham. Mr. Cunningham, who passed away in 2008, was a senior advocate who initiated many town programs for the aging while in office. His wife Joan and son Cort, were present for the ribbon cutting ceremony.
“Bob would have been so honored by this huge gesture,” said Joan Cunningham. “His heart and soul was in this town and I am happy that his memory will live on for years to come.”
