Middletown Mayor Joseph DeStefano highlighted the ongoing urban redevelopment and envisioned his city as a regional growth driver at the State of the City address on March 5.
“As I reflect on the past year and consider the road ahead, I cannot help but feel a deep sense of optimism and pride in the direction in which Middletown is heading,” he said, noting that new businesses filled up vacant buildings and breathed life into the former railroad city.
Last year, a tech firm spruced up an old building on Fulton Street, a department store revived the former Tompkins storefront, and a manufacturer broke ground on a major expansion on Industrial Place.
On the action list for 2024 are the long-planned renovations of the old O&W train station, the rehabbing of the former Montgomery Ward building, and the ongoing expansion of the Community Campus.
As the city rebuilds itself within its five square miles, Mr. DeStefano also looks beyond the traditional municipal boundary to drive regional development, benefiting Middletown residents.
“We have probably the most valuable resource—water—and we can sell it to other municipalities and developments while earning revenue for the city,” he told The Epoch Times. “It is a win-win situation.”
Mr. DeStefano cited the ongoing talks with the Town of Goshen about forming a new water district, the proposed pipe extensions to service a state facility on Route 17M, and the agreements with the Orange County government regarding a potential new city reservoir.
“While short on land for development, we have the ability to continue to work regionally,” he said. “I think it is something that will keep our county competitive when it comes to attracting businesses.”
Tourism is growing along with economic development, and several new destinations are being planned, including the extension of the Heritage Trail through downtown, a new secondary trail around Genung Street, and a new city welcome center at a former railroad station.
Mr. DeStefano also highlighted Paramount Theatre, a downtown gem that attracted 20,000 patrons last year alone.
While pushing for economic and tourism growth, Mr. DeStefano didn’t forget vulnerable residents who needed help to get ahead, citing the investments in the warming center, the availability of affordable housing, and the consideration of tenant protection measures.
Public Safety, Quality of Life
As for public safety, Mr. DeStefano highlighted three newly budgeted police positions this year, city incentives aimed at boosting the number of volunteers at the fire department, and the ongoing discussions on ways to provide emergency services to city residents amid a statewide crisis.The quality of life for residents also improved last year with added recreation options; it’s expected to be further boosted this year through upgrades, such as a new water play section at Mape Hill Park.
Code enforcement is another aspect of quality of life, and violation fines ordered by the city court in the past year reached nearly $500,000, Mr. DeStefano said at the annual address.
Last year, the city also made strides in communications with residents, including a newly updated city website with a section dedicated to meeting agendas and minutes.
Progress was made in infrastructure, including sidewalk upgrades, water system maintenance, and a watershed land acquisition and protection program.
According to Mr. DeStefano, the past year’s work was accomplished through a joint effort by all department heads and city council members despite challenges resulting from unfavorable state policies.
He also thanked state Sen. James Skoufis and outgoing state Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther for restoring resources to the city through their influence as members of the majority party.
