CCE’s $7.2M Expansion Ushers a Bright Future in Oneida County

A major investment in Oriskany paves the way for enhanced community programs and new opportunities.

A Bold Step Forward for the Community

Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) of Oneida County is launching a transformative $7.2 million expansion that will add 16,000 square feet of modern office, conference, and support space to its facility in Oriskany, New York. This new facility addresses a critical need for more room to serve local agriculture, youth development, nutrition, and economic development programs. With a rich history of community engagement and research-based education, the expansion is set to boost CCE’s ability to meet growing demands and ensure a brighter future for Oneida County.

Building on a Century of Service: CCE’s Mission and Legacy

A Foundation Rooted in History

Since its beginnings in the early 1900s, as part of the nationwide Cooperative Extension system established under the Smith-Lever Act, CCE has been a vital resource for Oneida County. Resident agents first arrived in Oneida County in 1912, and over the decades, the organization has evolved into a powerhouse of community education. It has consistently provided programs tailored to the needs of farmers, youth, and families, ensuring that the county stays abreast of emerging trends in sustainable agriculture, health, and community development.

Fulfilling a Mission of Lifelong Learning

At its core, CCE’s mission is to improve lives through research-based education. By offering programs that cover a diverse array of topics—ranging from environmentally conscious farming practices and innovative 4-H youth development to nutrition education and small business support—CCE remains a cornerstone of community progress. As CCE Executive Director Mary Beth McEwen states,

“This building expansion gives us the opportunity to grow and improve the programs we provide to the community and better serve the people of Oneida County.”

This commitment to continuous improvement underscores the importance of today’s expansion project, which not only addresses current capacity limits but also sets the stage for future growth.

The Expansion Project: Redefining Capacity and Innovation

Scope and Features of the Expansion

The new project will enlarge CCE’s physical footprint, increasing the facility from its existing 14,000 square feet to a total of 30,000 square feet. The details of the expansion include:

• Office, Conference, and Support Spaces: An 11,000-square-foot addition on the first floor will create flexible, modern office spaces, private meeting rooms, and a dynamic conference area. This design is tailored to foster collaboration and enhance service delivery.
• Basement Storage: A 5,000-square-foot basement will provide ample storage, ensuring that equipment and educational resources are safely housed and easily accessible.
• Parking Improvements: The project will add 30 new parking spaces to bring the total count to 125, accommodating a growing number of staff, visitors, and community partners.
• Architectural Enhancements: The exterior will feature a blend of masonry, metal siding, and aluminum curtain walls, inviting natural light into the interior and creating a welcoming, energy-efficient environment.

Construction is scheduled to begin immediately, with a projected completion date set for Fall 2026. This timeline reflects a careful balance between rapid progress and maintaining the facility’s daily operations without significant disruption.

Funding and Project Management

Fully funded by Oneida County, the expansion is a reflection of public confidence in CCE’s track record and long-term contributions. Managed by the Oneida County Department of Public Works, with design input from MARCH Associates and hands-on construction by Beebe Construction Services, the project is a model of effective public-private collaboration. County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. emphasizes,

“This expansion represents a major investment in the future of Oneida County.”

The investment is not only an expenditure on infrastructure but a strategic allocation designed to bolster community services for decades.

Enhancing Community Programs and Services

Expanded Capabilities in Agriculture and Youth Development

The enlarged facility ensures that CCE can continue to provide—and even expand—its critical services. For local farmers, the expansion translates into more opportunities for advanced workshops on soil health, sustainable practices, and innovative farming techniques. CCE’s expertise in these areas has long been a vital resource, especially as agricultural challenges evolve in today’s economy.

In parallel, the celebrated 4-H youth program stands to gain significantly. With more space and upgraded facilities, the program can accommodate additional STEM projects, animal care workshops, and leadership training sessions. These programs not only enrich the lives of young participants but also contribute to cultivating the next generation of community leaders.

Broadening Nutrition and Economic Development Initiatives

Nutrition education, a core service provided by CCE, benefits from expanded culinary workshops, food safety seminars, and wellness programs that are crucial to improving health outcomes, particularly for under-resourced families. Economic development initiatives, which support local businesses and entrepreneurial ventures, will also receive a boost. By offering technical assistance and business development resources in a modern, state-of-the-art setting, CCE is positioned to further invigorate Oneida County’s local economy.

Together, these initiatives underscore the expansion’s potential to not only enhance existing programs but also to introduce new, innovative services that meet the evolving needs of the community.

Voices of the Community: Stakeholder Perspectives

Leaders Speak Out

The groundbreaking event witnessed impassioned support from community leaders and stakeholders. County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. remarked,

“This expansion represents a major investment in the future of Oneida County. Cornell Cooperative Extension is a cornerstone of our community, providing critical resources and educational programs that touch every corner of our county.”

CCE Executive Director Mary Beth McEwen echoed this enthusiasm, highlighting the organization’s rapid growth:

“We work to enhance the quality of life for individuals and our community by providing access to knowledge, resources, and educational opportunities.”

Even political figures joined in. Board of Legislators Majority Leader George Joseph humorously noted,

“Some might look up at the sky disappointed it’s about to rain. Most of us here would say, ‘Bring it on!’”

Community and Partner Reactions

Local stakeholders, including representatives from the Oneida County Soil and Water Conservation District, have also expressed optimism. Jessica Armstrong, the district’s manager, praised the expansion for its potential to support local landowners and fortify regional environmental initiatives. Similarly, Anna Weeks, Chair of the CCE Board of Directors, attributed the project to the decade-long growth of CCE and underscored the community’s unwavering support over the years.

Navigating Concerns: Addressing the Challenges Head-On

Balancing Cost with Long-Term Gains

Critics have questioned the sizable $7.2 million price tag and the allocation of public funds. However, project leaders argue that this is a strategic investment that will yield substantial returns in community health, educational outcomes, and local economic vitality. With CCE’s budget growing from $3.4 million in 2015 to nearly $10 million in 2025, the expansion is seen as an essential step forward in meeting escalating community demands.

Minimizing Disruption During Construction

Concerns about construction disruptions are being proactively managed. The project’s schedule and phased construction approach are designed to minimize impact on daily operations and nearby activities. With experienced local firms at the helm, community leaders have promised transparent communication and regular updates to ensure that residents remain informed throughout the process.

A Data-Driven Transformation: Key Statistics and Outcomes

Over the past decade, CCE has demonstrated measurable success across its programs:

• Budget Growth: Increased from $3.4 million in 2015 to nearly $10 million in 2025.
• Staff Expansion: The number of employees has more than doubled from 30 to 70.
• Facility Growth: The facility’s area will expand from 14,000 square feet to 30,000 square feet.
• Community Engagement: Thousands of youth participate annually in 4-H programs, while hundreds of farmers benefit from targeted agriculture workshops.
• Enhanced Services: Nutrition education and economic development programs have reached more residents than ever, fueling local resilience and growth.

These data points underscore why the expansion is not only timely but critical for sustained community impact.

Invest in a Brighter Tomorrow

The Cornell Cooperative Extension’s $7.2 million expansion is a testament to Oneida County’s forward-thinking approach to community development. More than just a physical enlargement, the project symbolizes a long-term commitment to enriching lives through education, sustainable practices, and local economic empowerment. As construction commences, community members, stakeholders, and local businesses are invited to join in supporting and advocating for the programs that have defined CCE’s legacy. Get involved today—whether by volunteering, attending a workshop, or spreading the word—and be part of a movement that is building a stronger, brighter Oneida County for generations to come.

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