HIGHMOUNT, 11/09/15 -- State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I – Oneonta) today joined officials with the New York State Olympic Regional Development Authority, and Belleayre Mountain Ski Center to announce plans for a state of the art medical/emergency service facility.  The new medical center will be funded by a $1 million grant secured by Senator Seward.

“As Belleayre Mountain Ski Center continues to grow it is imperative that medical facilities are efficient and up to date,” said Senator Seward.  “The new facility will enable medical professionals to provide critical care on site when needed, while also clearing the way for enhanced guest services.”    

“While this is an important addition to the ski resort, the facility will also be available to assist should the region ever need medical services in the light of a natural disaster,” said ORDA president/CEO Ted Blazer.  “The partnership with Senator Seward is another example of the state’s dedication to the resort and with his assistance this could accomplish not only enhancing the resort’s operations, but help the community cope with disaster should it ever happen.”

Medical services at the Belleayre Mountain Ski Center are currently located in two locations which are positioned in less than optimal locations.  The new medical/emergency services building will enhance medical care and provide a state of the art, accessible location for emergency service.

To create the new medical center, an addition will be constructed to an already existing structure, resulting in a 2525 square foot facility.  The new medical center will incorporate a linear configuration to facilitate the movement of a patient from the ski slopes through the building into an ambulance in an efficient and safe manner.  A trauma room is included, along with a ten-bed in-patient area and a First Aid station.

Along with upgrading the emergency services, the change will also allow for the retrofitting of the areas in the Discovery Lodge and Overlook Lodge which currently house medical services. 

“Belleayre Mountain Ski Center is a vital component of our local economy and with growth outside of the traditional ski season on the horizon, it is vital that the state support and enhance the services available on site,” Seward concluded.

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