County Executive Neuhaus Announces Purchase of Woolworth Building in City of Newburgh

Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus confirmed that the County has acquired the former Woolworth Building located at 128 Broadway in the City of Newburgh, securing the future of a property that has served County residents for decades.

The County purchased the building at auction on July 9th for $600,000, ensuring that both the Department of Health and the County Clerk's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) can remain permanently located in the City of Newburgh. A ribbon cutting to mark the acquisition as well as the recent DMV renovations took place in August.

"This purchase is a major investment in both the City of Newburgh and the residents of Orange County," said Neuhaus. "By owning this building, we can create a more welcoming space for visitors while continuing to deliver vital services in the heart of Newburgh. Keeping the Health Department and DMV on Broadway reinforces our commitment to making County government accessible and responsive to the community."

Since the late 1990s, Orange County had rented the property, but ownership had been uncertain in recent years due to foreclosure proceedings. This acquisition gives the County the ability to make critical improvements to the facility, including the recently completed DMV upgrades.

"The County's acquisition of the Woolworth building enabled us to invest in the improvements to our Newburgh DMV office," said Orange County Clerk Kelly Eskew. "These updates will make it much more welcoming for residents to access the services they need, and we look forward to working with the Newburgh community for years to come."

Paul Wiley, Orange County's Director of Real Property, praised the move, calling it a win for both taxpayers and the community.

"I am grateful to County Executive Neuhaus and the Legislature for giving us the opportunity to bid on this property when it became available at auction. It is due to their support, encouragement, and vision that we were able to acquire the property at a very reasonable price."

For general media inquiries, contact Rebecca Sheehan, Assistant to the County Executive and Director of Public Information and Media Relations, at 845-907-2332 or [email protected].

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Be sure to also check out the Blueprint Orange video series, a behind-the-scenes look at the projects, places, and people that make our County a great place to live. And don't miss the newest episode of NeuCast, featuring Aaron "Hop" Hopmayer, Pine Bush High School Principal, now streaming on the Orange County Government YouTube channel and OrangeCountyGov.com.