FALLSBURG — A long-vacant and condemned property, the former Fallsburg High School, in South Fallsburg is one step closer to transformation, thanks to a major boost from New York State. Governor Kathy Hochul announced that the Town of Fallsburg will receive $755,450 through the Restore New York Communities Initiative, a statewide program aimed at revitalizing municipalities by eliminating urban blight and jumpstarting redevelopment.

The award is part of a broader $50 million package granted to 50 projects across the state through Empire State Development, which administers the initiative. Restore New York is designed to help local governments restore abandoned or condemned structures, promote economic development, and increase the local tax base.

Fallsburg’s awarded project will fund the demolition of a long-condemned schoolhouse located at 36 Laurel Avenue. Once removed, the site will be prepared for future development, including upgraded infrastructure. There are plans to construct a 5,000-square-foot healthcare facility on the shovel-ready parcel. 

Officials say the new building will become a “permanent medical home” for underserved residents in the area, many of whom currently face barriers accessing routine medical care.

“Revitalizing and rehabilitating vacant and blighted areas of our communities for housing or development is vital to make downtowns thrive,” said Governor Hochul in the official announcement. “Restore New York helps our municipalities plan for the future by catalyzing economic growth and supporting housing, businesses and cultural spaces.”

The demolition and site work are expected to begin later this year, with additional funding and planning currently under review to support the construction phase.