Press Release
March 21, 2018
New York State Announces $2.5 Million in New Improvements at Saratoga Spa State Park
"For decades, Saratoga Spa State Park has drawn families for recreation and restoration, and this latest development will enable allow this Capital Region destination to meet the modern needs of its visitors," Governor Cuomo said. "The project is another major step in the renewal of this jewel in our park system and a cornerstone of the region's tourism industry."
A $2.2 million renovation project will convert the 1930s Georgian Revival style bathhouse into a multi-purpose facility for Coesa and additional future tenants. The 18,000-foot facility will have a renewed front lobby, new public restrooms, updated utilities, and a new tenant space for the Coesa Wellness Center. The local holistic wellness community will offer classes and programs to inspire and support people who desire a healthier self and world, including programs on leadership, mindfulness, workplace culture and therapeutic yoga teacher training.
In addition to renovating the Roosevelt II Bathhouse, State Parks will also begin a $345,000 project to rehabilitate the roofs, masonry and the plaster ceilings of the Hall of Springs and Administration Buildings Arcades. Both projects are slated to be complete by the end of the year.
State Parks Commissioner Rose Harvey said, "We are very excited by our public-private partnership with Coesa to build on Saratoga Spa State Park's tradition as a destination for health and wellness. I'm grateful to Governor Cuomo for investing in this historic structure, allowing us to bring new energy and new options for New York citizens and tourists."
Stephanie Ferradino, Esq., Co-Chair of the Coesa, Inc. Board of Directors said, "The dream of Coesa was born from a small group of people who see the incredible benefit of gathering people together for the purpose of producing connection, inspiring healing, raising consciousness, fostering leadership, strengthening community and increasing well-being. In a world looking for connection and well-being, Coesa is poised to deliver it in the heart of the healing Saratoga Spa State Park."
Libby Coreno, Esq., co-chair of the Coesa, Inc. Board of Directors said, "As a not-for-profit, we are incredibly inspired by the investment the State of New York has made in our campaign effort, through NYSOPRHP, by investing $2.2 million to rehabilitate portions of the historic Roosevelt II bath building which will allow Coesa to open its doors. We are so excited to be launching a $1 million capital campaign to allow for the finishing of the interior of the space of Roosevelt II, the hiring of an executive director and a retreat coordinator, as well as assisting in the first two years of operations."
Construction has already begun to add a new bathhouse for the Peerless Pool, slated to open this summer. Further improvements to Saratoga Spa State Park that have recently been completed include: new Creekside Classroom for environmental education programs; renovations at the Victoria Pool complex; and paved recreational trails, playgrounds and picnic shelters.
Senator Kathy Marchione said, "Saratoga Spa State Park is a treasure for our Capital Region and entire state. This multi-million dollar renovation of the Roosevelt II Bathhouse and renovation of the historic Arcades of two 1930s-era buildings will celebrate and preserve the incredible history and architecture of the Park, as well as promote lifelong learning, leadership and wellness. This project is a win-win for our Saratoga community and I thank Governor Cuomo for his ongoing commitment to, and investments in, Saratoga Spa State Park and our entire State Park System that is rightfully the envy of the nation."
Assemblymember Carrie Woerner said, "Saratoga Spa State Park provides so many valuable recreation opportunities to the residents of Saratoga Springs and surrounding communities. The rehabilitation of the Roosevelt II Bathhouse will preserve a historic building, boost tourism, and generate economic activity for the Saratoga County region, and I look forward to seeing the results of this public-private partnership."
Saratoga Springs Mayor Meg Kelly said, "As a resident and the Mayor of Saratoga Springs, I am honored to have Coesa be a part of our amazing history. Having commenced my working career in the State Park at the bath houses, it is exciting to have Coesa Inc. enhance our residential and tourism experience in the State Park. As they revitalize the historic structures and create an opportunity for people to 'create a healthier self and world', it is priceless to our community. I look forward to supporting their efforts in our city's beautification and historic sustainability."
Ed Kinowski, Chair of the Saratoga Board of Supervisors said, "Saratoga County welcomes any support from the Governor's Office for Saratoga Spa State Park because it is used by people far and wide as a tourist attraction. Any money to help with the upkeep of the historic buildings is essential and welcomed."
The park improvements reflect Governor Cuomo's commitment to revitalizing the State park system. The Governor's NY Parks 2020 program is a multi-year commitment to leverage $900 million in private and public funding for State Parks from 2011 to 2020. The 2018-19 State Budget allocates $90 million toward this initiative.
The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees more than 250 parks, historic sites, recreational trails, golf courses, boat launches and more, which are visited by 71 million people annually. A recent study found that New York State Parks generates $5 billion in park and visitor spending, which supports nearly 54,000 jobs. For more information on any of these recreation areas, call 518-474-0456 or visit www.parks.ny.gov, connect with us on Facebook, or follow on Instagram and Twitter.