Cerow Recreation Park Arena Renovation/Addition Project
News Release, May 17, 2021
RIBBON-CUTTING TO CELEBRATE COMPLETION OF CEROW RECREATION PARK ARENA RENOVATION/ADDITION PROJECT AND DEDICATION OF NEW WING TO LEONARD “OBIE” O’BRIEN
Clayton, New York –The Town of Clayton will be holding a Ribbon Cutting and Dedication event to celebrate the completion of the Cerow Recreation Park Addition and Renovation project. Construction began on the project in March 2020 and was substantially completed in March of this year.
The intent of the project was to preserve and expand upon the facility’s ability to serve as an economic engine drawing visitors to its many events throughout the year, but also to ensure the facility continues to serve as a recreational resource to the Clayton community and surrounding North Country region.
Included in the undertaking were two additions to the existing building footprint: a 2-story 11,865 square foot addition on the west side and a 1-story 7,175 square foot addition on the south side of the facility. The west side addition accommodates a new vestibule, locker rooms, public restrooms, stairwells, and an elevator to create handicapped access to the existing bleacher viewing area. The south addition is for Zamboni storage. Improvements were also made to the concession and warming room.
The Town of Clayton received funding for the project through USDA Rural Development. Additionally, the Town of Clayton was awarded grants from Empire State Development and the state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation through the Regional Economic Development Council initiative.
To commemorate the project’s completion, a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony is scheduled for Friday, May 21st at 4pm at the Cerow Recreation Park Arena, 600 East Line Road, Clayton, NY.
Representatives of the Town of Clayton and other elected officials are expected to speak at the event. Additionally, Brian Murray, Acting State Director of USDA Rural Development NY will offer remarks.
Included with the ceremony is a dedication of the new wing to Leonard “Obie” O’Brien. Mr. O’Brien, who passed away in July 2020 after a long battle with cancer, was a beloved member of the Clayton Community who exemplified the true meaning of volunteerism and dedication. His tireless support and encouragement provided the opportunity for countless young people to participate in a variety of organized sports. Leonard’s coaching style was inclusive, participatory, and respectful. Albeit an important era of “Obie’s” coaching life occurred in this arena, his legacy has left a footprint on the entire community. “Obie” is survived by his son Toby O’Brien and wife Rhonda as well as his daughter Kerry E. Bearup and husband Kenny, who will be in attendance to represent the O’Brien family.
