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Cornwall, NY, January 28, 2025 – A transformative project is set to bring new energy to downtown Cornwall, as construction begins on a $13 million boutique hotel on Main Street. Slated to break ground in [Spring] 2025, the hotel will feature 52 luxurious rooms and a restaurant bar, revitalizing a long-vacant building and stimulating the local economy.
Part of Hilton’s prestigious Tapestry Collection, the new hotel in Cornwall will serve as a vibrant destination for visitors exploring the Hudson Valley. Conveniently located just over an hour north of New York City and only 15 minutes from Stewart International Airport, the hotel offers easy access to regional landmarks such as the Storm King Art Center, West Point, Bear Mountain State Park and other lower Hudson Valley attractions. This prime location positions the property to attract both tourists and locals seeking upscale accommodations and dining.
The hotel will be operated by Prestige Hospitality Group (PHG), based in Albany, NY. PHG currently manages multiple boutique hotels including the James Newbury Hotel and The Wick in the Hudson Valley. In addition, PHG oversees more than 40 properties representing all of the major hotel brands throughout the Northeast and brings experience and proven success to this project.
Currently a vacant building, the site will be transformed into a vibrant destination that promises to attract tourists, create jobs, and stimulate local business. The project has already secured a $1.2 million grant from Empire State Development (ESD) and is actively pursuing a $1 million Restore New York Grant. This grant application is supported by letters from prominent leaders, including United States Senator Charles E. Schumer, NYS Senator James Skoufis, US Congressman Patrick K. Ryan, and NYS Assemblymember Christopher Eachus.
The project also aims to align with green energy initiatives by pursuing Net Zero energy standards and striving for LEED certification. While a NYSERDA grant to support this vision is currently unavailable, the project team plans to apply for funding if it becomes available later this year. These efforts reflect a strong commitment to sustainable development.
Together, these initiatives and the strong community and political backing further underscore the project's potential to revitalize the community and drive economic growth.
“Revitalizing the former Berniker Dodge Dealership property on Main Street has been a priority since taking office in 2022, and is a good example of local government working with the private sector to encourage investment into our downtown areas. Through the use of private funds, brownfield tax incentives and ESD grants, this project is becoming a reality and once fully constructed, will provide substantial tax revenues for the municipality and school district, jobs for local residents and more foot traffic for area businesses. This is a real win for Cornwall and Orange County. I look forward to getting shovels in the ground this Spring,” said Cornwall Town Supervisor Josh Wojehowski.
In addition to providing upscale accommodations and dining options, the hotel is projected to generate nearly $1 million in tax revenue annually and employ up to thirty-five full-time staff. This is a substantial increase from the approximately $12,000 currently recorded for the site, highlighting the project's economic benefits.
“From countless historic and architectural marvels to the shoreline of the Hudson River in the shadow of West Point, Hudson Valley families know that Cornwall is a treasure. I’m proud that the rehabilitation of this currently vacant property into a hotel will bring additional vibrancy and economic vitality to downtown, create scores of jobs for Hudson Valley families, and will invite visitors from across the country to experience the rich history, arts, and offerings of Cornwall,” said Congressman Pat Ryan. “Thank you to our leaders in Cornwall and partners across all sectors for coming together to deliver for the Cornwall community and for helping the entire Hudson Valley region thrive.”
“This is a critically important hospitality project for not only Cornwall but for the entire Hudson Valley region. HVEDC is excited to see this investment into our region. Revitalizing our downtowns will lead to increased economic vitality and will make stronger communities. We fully support this project,” said Mike Oates, President & CEO of Hudson Valley Economic Development Corp.
"When local economies develop and grow, municipalities improve their futures and quality of life for residents," said Senator James Skoufis. "Cornwall's hotel project has the potential to do just that: This long-derelict property will undergo a revitalization while creating jobs and a new restaurant for locals and visitors alike. Importantly, the owner has committed to not pursue property tax breaks - the development will be a true, full ratable for our town and school district. I look forward to this important project coming to fruition.”
“One of my top priorities as representative of the 99th Assembly District is to ensure that state money flows into our local communities to help them thrive,” said Assemblymember Chris Eachus (D-New Windsor). “This project will do just that: transforming a currently unused property into one that will bring in guests from around the world and provide exciting upscale dining to the region. I am proud to have been able to successfully advocate for state funding for this project, and thank Supervisor Wojehowski for his tireless efforts that have made this project a reality. The future is bright for Cornwall residents.”
“Revitalization of a blighted property along Main Street in Cornwall, New York, will be value-added for our greater Cornwall community. Strategically aligned with both the Town’s and Village’s comprehensive plans regarding our central business districts — ‘smart development’ via the Hotel Project will serve as an ‘economic driver’ for Cornwall and the region. Obvious dividends will be reaped via the property’s reintroduction to rateables rolls, as well as providing a destination spot for visitors seeking to explore our vibrant arts opportunities and enhancing our status as bedroom community for the United States Military Academy at West Point. This effort will be value-added for Cornwall,” stated Cornwall-on-Hudson Mayor James A. Gagliano.
"As the President of the Greater Cornwall Chamber of Commerce, I am delighted to support the development of this boutique hotel, which promises to be a cornerstone of our community’s economic growth. This project will not only create jobs and stimulate local businesses but also spur additional investment into our community. We look forward to the positive impact this will have on our members and the broader community, reinforcing our commitment to fostering a vibrant and thriving local economy,” said Scott Teresi, President – Greater Cornwall Chamber of Commerce.
“We are proud to have applied for the Restore NY Grant, an opportunity that aligns with our vision for revitalizing this property and boosting our community”, said Keith Perez, Owner of 2 Girls 1 Boy Holdings. “Additionally, we are excited to announce our partnership with Prestige Hospitality Group, whose expertise will ensure a world-class experience for our guests. I am deeply grateful for the incredible support we’ve received from the planning board, Empire State Development, and our local and state leaders who have championed this project. Together, we are shaping a brighter future for Cornwall and the Hudson Valley region."
The hotel and restaurant are expected to attract a diverse array of visitors, ranging from leisure tourists to business travelers, thereby boosting the local economy and fostering the growth of new businesses. The project's approval under Hilton's Tapestry Collection ensures a high standard of quality and service, making it a landmark addition to Cornwall.
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