Empire State Development announced plans for a $6 million upgrade to the Saranac Lake Civic Center on Wednesday, mostly funded by New York state.
The project will be supported by $4.5 million in state Upstate Revitalization Initiative funds through the North Country Regional Economic Development Council, according to ESD, the state’s economic development agency. The other $1.5 million is still in the process of being worked out through state funding and local fundraising, according to Saranac Lake Mayor Clyde Rabideau.
The Civic Center, owned by the local Pee Wee Hockey association, was originally built in the 1970s to support youth hockey. It will undergo interior and exterior improvements, with a planned completion to coincide with the 2023 Winter World University Games, hosted in Lake Placid. The center previously made a hosting commitment for the curling events.
The University Games are expected to serve as a catalyst for private investment, boosted tourism, increased employment and the creation of new business opportunities. While Lake Placid will host the games, neighboring communities like Saranac Lake will host competitive events, supporting a more widespread regional economic impact.
