On Monday, July 14, a powerful microburst storm swept through Putnam County, bringing extreme rainfall and causing severe damage to the structure that will serve as the future site of Putnam County’s Early Learning Center. This building, currently under development by Community Based Services (CBS), is intended to become a warm, inclusive preschool environment for young children of all abilities.

We have assessed the damage in collaboration with our insurance provider and our engineering and architectural teams. Plans for a safe and effective restoration are underway.

We want to clarify that the storm damage was limited to the future preschool site and did not affect the main building that houses Hudson Valley InterArts. However, out of an abundance of caution, the art center was closed while a full safety inspection was conducted. The engineer’s report confirms that the art center building is structurally sound and safe for occupancy.

Before we can reopen, we must complete a minor fire safety repair required by the fire department. Specifically, a communication device that was previously located in the damaged building must be relocated to the main building. We anticipate this work will be completed within the next two weeks.

We are deeply grateful for the swift response from our local first responders who secured the site and ensured public safety, as well as the continued support from our community and local officials. Special thanks go to Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne, Congressman Mike Lawler, Senator Pete Harckham, and Assemblyman Matt Slater for their outreach and steadfast support.

We remain committed to creating inclusive spaces that serve and inspire our community. We will keep you updated as we move forward with both restoration and reopening efforts.