Delaware Opportunities

Article as it appeared in The Daily Star newspaper on December 17, 2004:

Delaware Opportunities Complex

Should be Done by April 30, Director says

By Patricia Breakey

Delhi News Bureau

HAMDEN — The new Delaware Opportunities administrative office complex being erected on state Route 10 in Hamden is expected to be completed by April 30, according to John Eberhard, executive director.

Eberhard said Tuesday that the 22,500-square-foot complex will consolidate most of the Delaware Opportunities offices, which are currently scattered throughout the county.

"It will be easier to offer all of our services in one location," Eberhard said.

Delaware Opportunities has offices in three different buildings in Delhi, at 53, 56 and 146 Main St., in addition to the weatherization office in Hamden and the housing office in Walton.

The $1.85 million project is located on seven acres of property that was purchased from Dan Liddle. Eberhard said Eastman Associates of Oneonta broke ground on the project in mid-October.

"Six acres will be developed, and we will have one acre for future expansion if needed," Eberhard said. "We will have parking for about 200 cars."

Eberhard said 82 staff members will be housed in the new facility. He added that most of the money for the building is coming from a fund that has been accumulating for several years.

Hamden Supervisor Wayne Marshfield, who also serves on the Delaware Opportunities capital projects committee, said he is thrilled that the new complex is in Hamden.

Marshfield said he believes that over a period of time, Delaware Opportunities will save money by operating out of one building in the center of the county.

"Having everybody under one roof makes it more organized," Marshfield said. "They will no longer have to pay rent on six buildings, and it will save on heating bills."

Marshfield said most of the small-business owners in Hamden are enthusiastic about the new jobs in their town.

"Anytime you can bring 85 jobs to town it’s a very good thing," Marshfield said. "We might be able to entice a few of the people to build here, and we might see some additional businesses spring up. It’s bound to help business, and we are very happy to have them come to town."

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