White Plains, NY —The former Centennial Hose Fire Station site, a 2.3-acre parcel of land, has a rich history that dates back to 1927, when it was initially acquired by the County from the City of Peekskill.

Now, the county of Westchester will be waiving its right to reverter and giving full control of the land to the City of Peekskill to be repurposed by the Peekskill Facilities Development Corporation ("PFDC"). The PFDC, a non-profit local development corporation, has unveiled plans to transform the property into a commercial kitchen food incubator that will assist local caterers and restaurant entrepreneurs launch their businesses.

To further this project, the PFDC has been awarded a generous grant of $2,400,000 from the U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration. This grant will go a long way in supporting the development of the commercial kitchen food incubator project. The City of Peekskill has also pledged $600,000 in local funds towards the project.

With this funding and support, the PFDC will be able to transform the Centennial Hose Fire Station site into a modern, state-of-the-art facility that will provide local entrepreneurs with access to cutting-edge equipment, training, and resources, while benefitting the local economy.

Board Chair Vedat Gashi (D- Ossining, New Castle, Somers, Yorktown) said, “Supporting local businesses is essential for the growth and sustainability of a community's economy. When we invest in local businesses, we are investing in our community, creating job opportunities, and keeping money flowing within the local economy - which will help preserve our community's character and vibrancy while contributing to its long-term economic success. I want to thank County Executive George Latimer and Colin Smith for their partnership in making this happen for the residents of Peekskill.”

Colin Smith (D-Cortland, Peekskill, Yorktown) said, “As Legislation Committee Chair, I am excited for the repurposing of the former Centennial Hose Fire Station site. This is an exciting development for the City of Peekskill and the local community. The commercial kitchen food incubator project will allow aspiring entrepreneurs to turn their dreams into reality while contributing to the growth and development of the region.”

You can watch the Board meeting here.