CATSKILL — The Greene County Legislature is proud to announce the official opening of its new visitor center taking place on Thursday, July 3, 2025 at 11AM.
“This major development project began well before I came to work for Greene County” notes James Hannahs, Director of Economic Development, Tourism & Planning. “In 2016, then Deputy County Administrator Warren Hart and then Executive Director of the Greene County IDA, Rene VanSchaack worked closely with the Greene County Legislature to acquire long underutilized properties with great potential on both the east and west sides of the NYS Thruway at Exit 21 in Catskill.”
“Warren and Rene had a vision” recalls April Ernst, current Executive Director of the Greene County IDA. “The goal was to create attractive, shovel-ready sites to entice dynamic businesses to arguably one of the most prominent areas for those entering and leaving the county.”
In 2017, work began with the demolition of the derelict Quality Inn on the north side of Route 23B. Infrastructure improvements in electrical, water and sewer systems, and natural gas supply began thereafter. An agreement was reached between the county and the owners of Stewart’s Shops to effectively swap sites and create new facilities for both Stewart’s and the Greene County Tourism Visitor Welcome Center.
“Increasing the number of available hotel rooms for both business and leisure travelers was a major priority for this project,” says Chair of the Greene County Legislature Patrick Linger. “The Exit 21 East site plan definitely helps achieve that, providing easy access to amenities, hospitality, and information.”
“It’s no secret that tourism drives a significant portion of the Greene County Economy,” notes Legislature Majority Leader Matthew Luvera. “Revitalization projects like this are key to attracting both the visitors and businesses that drive that economy.”
“I have been a supporter of this visitor center project,” recalls Minority Leader Harry Lennon. “This is the gateway to Greene County and showcases the amazing tourism destinations in the Great Northern Catskills. It also enhances the route 23B corridor into Leeds. I am very proud to say I continue to focus on the types of projects that improve our communities, and every ribbon-cutting and grand-opening affirms that commitment.”
“First impressions are extremely important,” notes Catskill Town Supervisor Patrick McCulloch. “When drivers get off the Thruway in Catskill, we want them to feel that our communities have a lot to offer, and are places where businesses thrive.”
“We’re proud to open a state-of-the-art visitor center that not only showcases the best of our region but ensures every traveler, regardless of ability, feels welcome,” responded Tourism Director Patty Austin when asked about the new home for her team. “Conveniently located right off the NY State Thruway Exit 21, this gateway is designed to inspire exploration, support local businesses, and make every visit an experience to remember. We encourage all of our Tourism business partners to stop in, say hello, and check out our new facility for themselves.”
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