The project is expected to be completed by summer
MIDDLETOWN – The $14.7 million project to convert an old mill building into workforce housing, community space and a culinary job training venue is moving forward.
The three-story building at Mill and Harding streets is being renovated as the Mill at Middletown. It is expected to be completed in June.
The project is being undertaken by the Regional Economic Community Action Program, Orange County HOME Investment Partnerships Program, the Community Preservation Corporation, New York State Homes and Community Renewal, Raymond James Tax Credit Funds, Inc., the Federal Home Loan Bank, New York State Energy Research Agency, and the City of Middletown.
The main building at the mill was constructed in 1875 and has since then housed the manufacture of hats, shoes, and wood furniture, as well as retail sale of auto parts.
In addition to the workforce housing, the Mill at Middletown will house the Fresh Start Café, a culinary arts training program for Welfare-to-Work participants. RECAP currently operates similar facilities in Middletown and Newburgh that serve breakfast, lunch and desserts.
“The renovated building is “a fine example of re-adaptive use of industrial buildings in our city,” said Middletown Mayor Joseph DeStefano. “Development of this vacant factory will include workforce training and housing for our citizens. We are happy to lend our support for this important project.”
