Senate Passes Seward Bill To Lift Belleayre

ALBANY, 05/21/15 – State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I- Oneonta) today announced senate approval of a bill he sponsors that would create a public-private partnership to boost the economic viability of properties in the Belleayre Mountain region. 

Senator Seward’s bill (S.1581) would authorize the New York State Olympic Regional Development Authority (ORDA) to operate and manage ski and recreational facilities located on properties in the vicinity of the Belleayre Mountain Ski Center.

“Belleayre Mountain is set for a major rebirth and extending ORDA’s expertise and resources to privately owned facilities will greatly enhance the region’s expansion, particularly during the early stages of development,” said Senator Seward.  “Locally, we are well aware of Belleayre’s winning attributes, and the tremendous plans that are on the horizon.  Partnering with ORDA will help institute a cohesive regional approach to more efficiently operate and market all we have to offer.”

Senator Seward has consistently supported plans for the Belleayre Resort at Catskill Park and has called on the Department of Environmental Conservation to move forward with final approval of the proposed resort.   

Local developers encouraged Senator Seward to sponsor legislation authorizing the public-private partnership with ORDA. 

“In order to maximize the economic potential of the central Catskills region it makes sense that state owned and privately-run amenities operate in concert.  By managing and promoting these attractions under the ORDA umbrella I am certain we will experience a major influx of year-round business that will truly spark the regional economy,” Seward concluded. 

The bill was sent to the assembly.

-30-