SCHENECTADY, NY — The Board of Directors of the Schenectady Metroplex Development Authority met this week and approved projects in both Duanesburg and Rotterdam.

In Duanesburg, the board approved a $150,000 grant in support of the County’s efforts to reopen the former Duanesburg branch of the YMCA. The County has been working with a private fitness operator with an existing gym/training center in Middleburgh, NY to reopen the 26,000 square foot Duanesburg location that features a pool, gym, training area and community center. Chris and Lauren Davis are buying the facility and will provide access for community programs, use by the Duanesburg Central School District which is located close by and numerous public benefits including lifeguard training and senior meal site.

“We’d like to thank Metroplex and the Davis family for their continued support and investment in this important project,” said Anthony Jasenski, Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature. “Working together we can restore the Duanesburg YMCA into a community hub that will serve the recreational, social, and fitness needs of the area.”

In Rotterdam, Metroplex is providing a grant of $100,000 to Maple Ski Ridge as part of a $1.2 million investment that will improve the popular ski area’s snow-making capacity.

Maple Ski Ridge is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year. The family-owned and operated ski center is located on 138 acres and attracts over 20,000 visitors to Schenectady County each year. The Maple Ridge ski school has trained many of the region’s best skiers.

Upgrades at Maple Ski Ridge include a new water pumping station, electrical upgrades and new snow making machines that will use less energy and water while making snow much faster, getting trails ready for skiers and improving ski conditions.

“As one of the leading Learn to Ski and Snowboard Centers in the Capital Region, we are excited to see Maple Ski Ridge invest in their infrastructure to improve their visitor’s experience and we thank Metroplex for providing their essential support.” said Todd Garofano, Executive Director, Discover Schenectady.