Seward To Announce $2 Million For Foothills

State Senator James L. Seward will announce $2 million in a special state senate grant for Foothills Performing Arts Center at its opening night gala of "Amahl and the Night Visitors" Friday, December 15, 8:00 p.m. at the center on 25 Market Street.

The funding comes on top of $4 million included in the 2006 state budget and announced in March by Seward and $500,000 awarded by the governor, bringing total state support for Foothills to $6.5 million.

The grant will help fund the center's near $12 million construction program, which will boost the local economy and lead to 180 jobs. Foothills officials estimate a state and local tax impact of more than $500,000. Private fundraising is ongoing for the capital program and to support the center's operations.

"The construction of the performing arts center will have a significant positive effect on the economy of Otsego County," Senator Seward said. "The state senate is committed to providing support for projects of regional importance, and this project speaks to urban redevelopment, quality of life, and community preservation. I believe, as do many involved, that it will help spark an economic renaissance here in Oneonta."

The funds, administered through the state's economic development programs, will contribute toward finishing the production center, a 120 seat theater and multi-purpose room, and construction of the center's 600 seat theatre.

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