Binghamton Area News Roundup 1/18/25

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‼️Must-Reads

💻💭Binghamton University gets $30 million gift for AI research center

In its largest philanthropic gift ever, Binghamton University is getting $30 million towards an artificial intelligence research center, boosted by an additional $25 million in capital investment from New York State (Press & Sun)

🛼Skate Estate is closing(?)

The beloved indoor skating venue Skate Estate will likely be closing its doors as the Marchuska Brothers, who purchased it in 2024, are looking to flip the location to Williams Auto Group (NC34). It is the only indoor open roller skating venue within an hours' drive.

Opened in 1982, the venue expanded over the years to feature laser tag, a mini golf, and water slides. The latter two were recently demolished under the Marchuskas.

A public hearing on an Aquifer Zoning Special Permit is scheduled for February 11th, with some permits already approved. (WBNG)

🚒Binghamton government comes to agreement on Fire Department funding

Binghamton City Council has expedited funds to purchase 2 new Fire Department vehicles after months of public quarrel between Mayor Jared Kraham and the council using Community Development Block Grant funds (NC34).

Ultimately, the funds will come from Council’s own Contingency Account.

👶Broome County to recieve $20 million for childcare pilot

Broome County will receive $20 million for New York's universal childcare pilot program, with the county contributing 10% in funding.

It will support up to 1,000 seats for children aged 0-3 starting in 2027, and Broome will use funding from the pilot program to open the county's largest childcare center this fall (Press & Sun).

NewsChannel 34 spoke to a local childcare expert to hear how this might impact the county (NC34).

Also make sure to check out this week's events roundup!