On Wednesday, November 17, 2021 the Board of Directors for the Broome County Industrial Development Agency voted to approve the acquisition of 4301 Watson Boulevard, in the Town of Union. This signifies the next step towards redevelopment of this legacy site in Broome County. Previously, The Agency also issued a Request for Proposals for the purchase and redevelopment of the site in July, 2021 with hopes to find a qualified developer to breathe life into the abandoned building.
The structure located at 4301 Watson Boulevard is more fondly known in the community as the former IBM Country Club. Many residents as children of IBM employees remember growing up at the club, taking advantage of its luxurious recreational facilities including swimming pools, tennis courts and more. Now, nestled between a scenic golf course and the Village of Johnson City’s commercial business district, this site serves as the perfect opportunity to generate long-term sustainable benefits for the community through its development.
The Broome County Industrial Development Agency has partnered with Broome County Government to assist in the development of this site. Thanks to this powerful public-private partnership, the County will be able to provide The Agency with up to $2 million in grant funds to assist in the redevelopment of the site. Much of the potential $2 million is anticipated to be allocated to environmental remediation due to asbestos and other structural concerns.
Though the response period for the RFP has closed, a developer has yet to be selected. The redevelopment of this site would meet The Agency’s goals of stemming disinvestment in neighborhoods, returning vacant, abandoned, and tax?delinquent properties to productive use, and turning vacant spaces into vibrant places. Redevelopment of the site would also accomplish recommendations set out in the Broome County Comprehensive Plan. The Agency, Board and staff, as well as County and Municipal officials all concur that the development of this property into a residential or mixed-use residential complex is preffered as it would help address the need for quality and affordable housing.
The Agency is excited to pursue the redevelopment of this site which sits in a very active and visible corridor in Broome County. Next steps are to get the site shovel ready and select the right project and developer for the location.