CONTACT: Eric Durr, 518-786-4581 or (cell) 518-429-5186

FOR RELEASE: Friday, Nov 07, 2008

SCHENECTADY, NY (11/07/2008)-- The New York State Division of Military and Naval Affairs will close down the Schenectady Armory Nov. 10 to reduce heating costs and prepare the facility to be disposed of by the New York State Office of General Services. The armory has been removed from active military service so nonmilitary use activities authorized by New York State Military Law,such as shows and community events, will be suspended in order to save money. Closing down the building over the winter months will save $50,000 to $70,000 in heating and lighting costs. The armory, located at 125 Washington Avenue, was vacated by New York Army National Guard's 206th Military Police Company and 501st Explosive Ordinance Disposal Battalion this summer. The MP Company moved into a new armory complex built adjacent to New York National Guard headquarters in Latham, while the 501st EOD Battalion moved into the new Scotia Armed Forces Reserve Center at the Schenectady County Airport. Schenectady County Community College has used the armory as a location for sports programs. That contract ends on November 10. Built in 1936 the Schenectady Armory, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, was once home to the New York National Guard's 105th Infantry Regiment. However, the building no longer meets the modern requirements of the Army National Guard for administrative space, storage space, vehicle maintenance, and training facilities.