New band shell at Hickories Park planned for 2015

Senator Thomas Libous (R-52) and Town of Owego Supervisor, Donald Castellucci, Jr. held a press conference at Hickories Park in Owego, N.Y. on Thursday, Oct. 16 to discuss details of the construction of a new band shell at the park.

Senator Libous stated, “This is a very important project for the Town, Tioga County, and the region.”

Used for a number of years for concerts and other events, many presented by the Tioga Arts Council, the former band shell was heavily damaged during the flooding of 2011.  Previous to the flood, the former band shell required repetitive upkeep and maintenance, including repair and constant cleaning of the canvas. Castellucci explained, “The former structure was also taken down every winter, so that process in itself was very labor intensive.”

Castellucci and Senator Libous shared that the new structure will be a permanent structure, and eliminate the need for removal or constant repairs. A more “amphitheatre” type design, the structure will be better equipped to handle improved sound, and will also include more stage space. The existing pad will remain; it has been examined and considered in good shape.

In regard to funding, Castellucci explained that the Town of Owego had applied for a grant through State Senator Libous’ office. For the $120,000 total needed to refurbish and open the band shell to the public again, $25,000 came from the Town of Owego, and another $30,000 from the Mildred Faulkner Truman Foundation.  Senator Libous explained $65,000 was funding he secured via the State and Municipalities Capital Program.

Libous shared, “When Donald Castellucci first presented a request, it was nice to see the Town was able to get funding, so I told him I’d like to help with the remainder.”

Libous shared, “The new facility will be spectacular, totally different than what was here in the past, a permanent structure with longevity.”

Libous went on to say, “Culturally, it makes a lot of sense to do. This is a beautiful park, just look at it,” and he added, “I just think it’s fabulous, why not enhance it?”

Castellucci thanked Senator Libous for his help in securing the funds. Castellucci is hopeful that the new band shell will ultimately be a positive boost, especially in helping area businesses prosper with added visitors coming to Hickories Park.

“We lost a lot of revenue after the flood,” Castellucci stated, and added, “the new band shell construction also compliments other improvements we’ve made here at the park, including the new bridge.”

Abbey Hendrickson, director of the Tioga Arts Council, was also very happy to hear this news.

Hendrickson stated, “From our perspective, replacing the band shell lost in the flood is a meaningful and necessary step towards Tioga County’s continued recovery and growth. Every summer, the Tioga Arts Council collaborates with the Town of Owego to present free concerts to hundreds of residents and visitors to Tioga County, drawing performers from a wildly talented pool of local musicians. Replacement of the band shell in Hickories Park will not only provide more opportunities for area musicians, but it will also help expand people’s appreciation of music, arts and culture. We couldn’t be happier!”

Following an application by the Town of Owego and various approvals on the State level, Castellucci is hopeful that the new structure should be complete by the end of Spring 2015, dependent on weather.