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A powerful microburst storm delivering extreme rainfall swept through Putnam County on Monday, July 14, causing severe damage to a section of the building owned by Community Based Services’ (CBS) which will serve as the future home for Putnam County’s Early Learning Center.
The facility, currently under development to serve as a welcoming, inclusive learning space for young children of all abilities, sustained significant structural damage during the storm. CBS is actively assessing the impact and working closely with its insurance provider, and engineering and architectural teams to develop a plan for a safe and effective restoration.
“We are deeply grateful for the immediate response from local first responders who secured the site and ensured safety, as well as for the ongoing support from our community and local leaders. We’d especially like to thank Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne, Congressman Mike Lawler, Senator Pete Harckham, and Assemblyman Matt Slater for their outreach and steadfast commitment to our work.”
Despite the setback, CBS remains fully committed to our partnership with Putnam County. Plans were already in place to open the Early Learning Center in September 2025 within the main building which sustained no damage. Hudson Valley InterArts will resume regular classes and programming starting this week.
“The foundation of this program is built not only with bricks and mortar, but with a vision for inclusive education and a belief in every child’s potential,” said Dr. Sylvester. “We are moving forward, and we confidently await opening the doors of a safe, engaging, and creative space for our youngest learners.”
CBS has been a leader in providing innovative services for people with disabilities across the Hudson Valley since 1981. In 2024 the agency began expansion of its services in New York State’s Capital region and soon will open Hudson Valley InterArts’ second location to serve as a place for community arts, healing arts and creative arts for all.
For information and updates on all the important work we do, please visit www.commbasedservices.org.
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