Investments Support Projects in Chemung, Broome and Tompkins Counties that Expand Access to Safe, Affordable Community Spaces

ALBANY N.Y. - Robert J. Rodriguez, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY), today highlighted more than $10.2 million in NY BRICKS awards supporting community center projects across the Southern Tier.

The funding will support construction and renovation projects in Chemung, Broome and Tompkins counties, strengthening local facilities that promote physical health, mental well-being and community connections for families, children and seniors. These investments advance Governor Hochul's Unplug and Play initiative, which expands access to affordable and accessible spaces where New Yorkers can gather, stay active and access essential services.

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Statewide, the NY BRICKS (Building Recreational Infrastructure for Communities, Kids and Seniors) program awarded 30 grants totaling $100 million across 22 counties. The awards will benefit nearly 400,000 New Yorkers through free or low-cost programming and services. More than 90 percent of statewide funding supports projects in underserved communities.

Investments in the Southern Tier

In Elmira, a $7.51 million NY BRICKS award supports the addition and renovation of the Economic Opportunity Program of Chemung County's community center. The project will expand space for community programming and essential services that residents rely on every day.

In Johnson City, a $1.41 million award supports renovations at the West Family YMCA, operated by the YMCA of Broome County. The project will modernize facilities serving families, children and seniors throughout Broome County.

In Ithaca, Greater Ithaca Activities Center (GIAC) received a $1.3 million award to support construction of a new community center that will expand youth and family programming in Tompkins County.

Together, these projects reflect New York State's commitment to investing in high-impact community infrastructure that strengthens neighborhoods and expands opportunity across the Southern Tier.

DASNY President and CEO Robert J. Rodriguez, said: "NY BRICKS represents a meaningful investment in the heart of our communities. In Elmira, Johnson City and Ithaca, these projects will create stronger, healthier spaces where families can connect, seniors can stay active and young people can grow. By partnering with local organizations across the Southern Tier, we are delivering real improvements to the everyday places New Yorkers depend on. DASNY is proud to help move these projects from vision to reality, and we are grateful to Governor Hochul for her leadership in making this investment possible."

New York State Senator, Lea Webb, said: "I am proud to celebrate this $1.41 million NY BRICKS investment in the YMCA of Broome County," said Senator Lea Webb. "Community centers like the YMCA provide safe spaces for youth, vital wellness programs for seniors, and essential services that strengthen families. This funding represents a direct investment in the health and future of Johnson City and the surrounding community. The NY BRICKS initiative recognizes that equitable access to modern community facilities is critical, especially in underserved areas."

New York State Assemblymember, Donna Lupardo, said: "The NY BRICKS program was designed with places like the YMCA West Family Branch in mind; community spaces where people can socialize, access services, and stay active. Renovations made possible with this infrastructure grant complement plans we announced last Fall to fully renovate their pool. Together, these improvements will allow the YMCA to continue serving families in the Southern Tier for years to come."

Economic Opportunity Program of Chemung County CEO, Andrea Ogunwumi, said: "The NY BRICKS $7.5 million grant allows the Economic Opportunity Program, Inc to renovate the Ernie Davis Community Center and provide access to more public space in the community. We're thankful to Governor Hochul for the 'Unplug and Play' initiative and NY BRICKS funding that supports expansion of space for multi-generational programming for children, families, and seniors. We are excited to welcome even more people in the community to programs and services at the Ernie Davis Community Center and Legends Hall. So, this represents a new beginning not just for EOP, Inc. but for the entire community."

YMCA of Broome County CEO, Gareth Sansom, said: "The YMCA of Broome County is excited to receive $1.41 million through the NY BRICKS capital grant program to revitalize our West Family facility in Johnson City. This investment will fund a new roof, upgraded HVAC system, improved parking lot, enhanced outdoor lighting and signage, a dynamic educational outdoor space featuring STEAM activities for kids, and additional pickleball courts for all ages. Serving more than 10,000 individuals each year, these upgrades will energize our campus and ensure the Y remains a vibrant, welcoming community hub for families, youth, and seniors across Broome County for generations to come."

Broome County Executive, Jason T. Garnar, said: "The West Family YMCA plays an important role in the lives of so many families in Broome County, providing a place for people of all ages to stay active, connect, and access important programs and services. These improvements will help ensure the space continues to serve our residents for years to come. We're grateful to Governor Hochul and DASNY President and CEO Rodriguez for their support in strengthening community spaces like this for our families."

Martin Chalk, Chemung County Legislator (District 10) and EOP Board Member, said,
"I want to thank Governor Hochul for her continued support of the Economic Opportunity Program and for investing in the Ernie Davis Community Center and Ernie Davis Legends Hall project. Ernie Davis was not only a remarkable athlete, but a true American hero whose legacy continues to inspire this community. As Chair of this project and someone who knew Ernie personally, I'm proud to help ensure that his life and contributions are honored in a space that will serve families and future generations here in Elmira."

City of Elmira Mayor, Daniel J. Mandell said: "The $7.5 million NY BRICKS investment in the renovation and expansion of the Ernie Davis Community Center is a major investment in Elmira's future. As a division of EOP, the Center serves as a front door for families, children, and youth - particularly those who are marginalized and underserved. This funding will expand and modernize a space that supports youth and childcare, health care access, housing security, and food security, ensuring the Center can continue meeting the needs of our community for years to come."

About DASNY
Founded in 1944, DASNY is New York State's capital project development authority. It finances and constructs sustainable and resilient science, health and education institutions that help New York thrive. It is one of the largest issuers of tax-exempt bonds in the nation with an outstanding bond portfolio of approximately $65.4 billion as of December 31, 2025. DASNY is also a prolific public builder with a construction pipeline of approximately 1,000 projects valued at more than $13 billion as of December 31, 2025. To learn more about DASNY, visit www.dasny.org.