A new era of hospitality and economic growth is set to begin in the Town of Cornwall with the construction of a multi-million-dollar boutique hotel. The project, submitted by 2 Girls, 1 Boy Holdings LLC, proposes a 52-bedroom hotel and restaurant at the site of a former gas station and, more recently, Bernicker Dodge.

On Monday, Supervisor Josh Wojehowski released the following information:

On July 1, 2024 the Town of Cornwall Planning Board voted 6-0 to grant preliminary approval after determining that the applicant had satisfied the requirements of Town Code 158-19. This determination was made after variances were granted by the Zoning Board of Appeals, a public hearing was held and closed on June 3, 2024, and a SEQRA negative declaration adopted by Planning Board on July 1, 2024. Prior to site work starting on the site, the applicant must meet any terms and conditions laid out by the Planning Board. The property has also been approved by Hilton under their prestigious Tapestry Collection.

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), underscoring the significant positive impact it is expected to have on the community. The Town of Cornwall has also applied for a $2 million dollar Restore NY grant from ESD which supports projects focused on the revitalization of formally blighted properties or the adaptive reuse of abandoned buildings.

“Downtown revitalization has been one of my focuses in Cornwall since taking office in 2022 as Town Supervisor. This hotel project aligns with the Town’s zoning code, comprehensive plan and the vision we laid out in our winning New York Forward grant application and the strategic investment plan that resulted from six months of hard work by NYF local planning committee members. I look forward to seeing the finished product and the positive benefits this project will bring to Cornwall and all of Orange County when it opens its doors,” Wojehowski said.

In addition to providing upscale accommodations and dining options, the hotel is projected to generate nearly $1 million in tax revenue annually and generate up to thirty-five full-time employees This is a substantial increase from the approximately $12,000 currently recorded for the site, highlighting the project’s economic benefits.

“When local economies develop and grow, municipalities improve their futures and quality of life for residents,” Senator James Skoufis said. “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” added Assemblymember Chris Eachus. “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.”

“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 of the Greater Cornwall Chamber of Commerce.
“We are thrilled to bring this transformative project to the Town of Cornwall,” said Keith Perez, Owner of 2 Girls 1 Boy Holdings. “Our boutique hotel will not only enhance the local hospitality landscape but also contribute to the economic vitality of my hometown. I am excited and grateful for the support from the Planning Board, my local community and Empire State Development.”

Construction could begin as early as end of this year or spring 2025, with the grand opening anticipated in late 2025 to early 2026.