The Broome-Tioga Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES) is set to receive a significant financial boost for its Glenwood Road campus. With the recent allocation of $1.3 million, the institution aims to enhance its infrastructure by constructing a new trades complex. The funds will primarily support the development of an indoor heated storage area for heavy equipment used in educational programs. This initiative promises to provide better working conditions and improved learning opportunities for students and faculty.

One of the key benefits of this expansion is the enhancement of the Heavy Equipment Repair and Operation program. Students and instructors have long faced challenges due to harsh weather conditions that hinder outdoor projects. An indoor facility equipped with heating will significantly improve the efficiency of their work. Junior student Jonah Saunders highlighted the difficulties encountered during cold weather, noting that tasks that once required extensive preparation outdoors can now be accomplished more swiftly indoors. Dan Coleman, an instructor at Broome-Tioga BOCES, emphasized that having a heated space will prevent issues like frozen machinery and dead batteries, ensuring smoother operations year-round.

This investment not only addresses immediate operational needs but also contributes to long-term cost savings. By protecting the equipment from environmental wear and tear, the lifespan of the machinery will be extended, reducing maintenance costs. As construction progresses as part of the broader capital improvement project, the new facility will offer a robust platform for hands-on learning and practical skills development. This advancement underscores the commitment to fostering a skilled workforce capable of meeting future industry demands.