Blackthorne rebirth underway
By Colin DeVries
Hudson-Catskill Newspapers
CATSKILL — To help in the restoration of a popular Durham resort tragically damaged by fire in September, county lawmakers have awarded an economic development loan toward the cause.
The Greene County Legislature approved a $200,000 low-interest Quantum Fund loan to the Blackthorne Resort last week, which will contribute to the resort’s rebirth before the 2011 spring tourism season.
Warren Hart, director of the county’s economic development, planning and tourism department, said assisting Blackthorne is pivotal to the tourism economy of Durham and Greene County at-large.
“First and foremost, it’s the retaining of existing jobs that would be lost,” said Hart, adding Durham’s economy was largely tourism-based.
The loan will go toward construction of a new restaurant and pub, the focal point of the East Durham resort.
A devastating fire in September destroyed the old restaurant and nightclub in the midst of the busy Catskill Mountain Thunder motorcycle festival.
Hundreds of people camping and attending the festival watched the roaring flames consume the restaurant. It is believed to have been started by a propane cooking fuel explosion, according to emergency responders. No one was injured in the incident.
Hart said the proposed restaurant design has opportunities for growth, possibly providing an increase for new employment.
A grant from New York State Homes and Community Renewal worth another $200,000 has also be applied for, Hart said.
The estimated cost of the construction is estimated to be more than $1 million.
The Greene County Legislature approved a $200,000 low-interest Quantum Fund loan to the Blackthorne Resort last week, which will contribute to the resort’s rebirth before the 2011 spring tourism season.
Warren Hart, director of the county’s economic development, planning and tourism department, said assisting Blackthorne is pivotal to the tourism economy of Durham and Greene County at-large.
“First and foremost, it’s the retaining of existing jobs that would be lost,” said Hart, adding Durham’s economy was largely tourism-based.
The loan will go toward construction of a new restaurant and pub, the focal point of the East Durham resort.
A devastating fire in September destroyed the old restaurant and nightclub in the midst of the busy Catskill Mountain Thunder motorcycle festival.
Hundreds of people camping and attending the festival watched the roaring flames consume the restaurant. It is believed to have been started by a propane cooking fuel explosion, according to emergency responders. No one was injured in the incident.
Hart said the proposed restaurant design has opportunities for growth, possibly providing an increase for new employment.
A grant from New York State Homes and Community Renewal worth another $200,000 has also be applied for, Hart said.
The estimated cost of the construction is estimated to be more than $1 million.
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