New York Real Estate Journal

Ulster County now accepting expressions of interest for redevelopment of two county-owned properties

March 2, 2021 - Brokerage

Ulster, NY Ulster County is accepting formal expressions of interest for the redevelopment of two county-owned properties known as Enterprise West. Located on a total of 82 acres, the parcels are part of the former IBM campus and include a 400,000 s/f building with a parking lot with capacity for 1,700 cars.

“This is a major step in unlocking the potential of this site, which has been dormant for far too long,” said Ulster County executive Pat Ryan. “I encourage all interested developers and businesses to review our ‘Request for Expression of Interest’ and to put forth their best concepts for how we can return this site to its former glory as a centerpiece of our economy.”

The county seeks responses from interested parties to participate in the redevelopment of these parcels in a manner that advances the county’s overall economic development goals, and which returns the properties to productive use according to the guidelines set forth here, in the County’s Request for Expressions of Interest (RFEI).

Enterprise West was acquired by Ulster County in November 2019 and given their location, condition, and permitted uses; they have the potential to play a key role in the economic future of the region.

In 2020, the county hosted a free outdoor summer movie series at the property, drive-in festivals and more for locals and visitors. The county expects to proceed with the first stages of redevelopment of the site in 2021.

“The RFEI process will enable Ulster County to approach Enterprise West’s redevelopment in a manner that is intentional and aligned with our values,” said Tim Weidemann, Ulster County’s director of economic development and president of the Ulster County Economic Development Alliance (UCEDA). “Our vision is to create a vibrant mix of uses and users on the Enterprise West site, including manufacturing, office, light industrial, educational, cultural, civic, recreational and/or residential, which will create a broad base of employment in a variety of industries and occupations and catalyze further redevelopment and investment in the surrounding area.”

“Encouraging a wide range of professionals and investors to propose ideas, uses, and possible development for the Enterprise West property is a critical step to ensure the property reaches the fullest potential while providing new job opportunities for the residents of Ulster County,” said Brian Cahill, Ulster County legislator and UCEDA board member. “Working with our partners in the County’s Economic Development office, we are excited about the future of this property.”

“The redevelopment of Enterprise West represents a new start for this site in Ulster County,” said Sarah Haley, chairperson of UCEDA. “The UCEDA board is enthusiastic and is committed to providing its full support to help facilitate this exciting project.”

In the RFEI guide, the county outlines its intention to advance the economic development strategy and goals identified in its Ulster 2040 economic development plan.