Arc of Yates celebrates official reopening

PENN YAN--More than a year after the May 2014 flash floods, the Arc of Yates officially reopened its facility along North Avenue in Penn Yan. Arc officials and board members cut the ribbon to the newly renovated facility during a ceremony held Monday morning, Oct. 5.
President and CEO Daniele Lyman said the building underwent just less than $2 million in repairs and renovations after the 2014 floods. She noted this work included several measures to help prevent future flood damage at the site.
"The building is the same size, but there have been quite a few enhancements, with one of those being an enhancement to make sure a flood isn't an issue again," Lyman said. "There has been drainage installed underneath the building. What looks like planters on the outside of the building are actually flood barriers. There are flood doors and many other things to protect the facility going forward."
Lyman added the Arc of Yates has been able to enhance the building by creating additional classroom space. She said this will go toward increasing the amount of vocational training they provide at the site.
Yates County Chairman Tim Dennis spoke along with Assemblyman Phil Palmesano, State Senator Tom O'Mara and Board President Ann McMullen prior to the ribbon cutting. The speakers commended those who helped make the renovations possible, especially thanking former Arc Executive Director Kate Ring for her leadership following the floods.