For months, the Town of Crawford has been working on completing the construction of their new pavilion, a square of space next to their popular UFO Museum to be used by the local community.

The area, known as “Crawford Square,” has picnic tables, benches and a small pavilion right on Main Street. The goal is for local residents to use the area to eat, mingle and support local businesses.

Of those present at the ribbon cutting were Crawford Town Board members, local residents, the Town Clerk Jessica Kempter, Orange County Clerk Kelly Eskew, Legislator Rob Sassi and members from the Pine Bush Area Chamber of Commerce.

Town of Crawford Supervisor Charles Carnes showed guests a plaque for the square right before the ribbon cutting. “Thanks everybody for coming out. Tonight we’re here to dedicate Crawford Square,” said Carnes.

Mercedes Wilson, a new member of the board of directors of the Pine Bush Area Chamber of Commerce, shared a few words. “I’m very excited. I grew up in this town and to see all the changes made and everyone coming together is a beautiful thing, and I’m so glad to be part of it,” said Wilson.

Carnes also stated some of their goals for the brand new area.

“I hope you all take advantage of this. You could get a takeout order from one of our local businesses [and] come over here and eat,” said Carnes, who also stated that some board members are trying to put together events at the square, like movie nights or small band performances.

Carnes said this is part of their efforts to revitalize downtown. “We’re looking forward to a lot more improvements in Pine Bush downtown,” he said, adding that Crawford Commons was next for a face lift.