THELAKER | 17 The funds will also cover extensive sitework to create a bus turnaround and expanded parking. Drivers for K-12 field trips find it hard to maneuver at the site, and more than a few cars have had to get pushed out of the mud. Work is scheduled to run from March to November of next year, making 2026 the first year for expanded programming. A shared horticulture facility A key element of the master plan is the proposed horticulture and greenhouse facility to be built on the main campus. It would replace the original greenhouse, built in 1979, and provide modern classrooms and labs. The goal is to develop a facility that could be shared with Ontario County-sponsored agencies that also deal with agriculture and the environment, such as Cornell Cooperative Extension and the Soil and Water Conservation District. “This is an opportunity to band together with like-minded agencies and collaborate at a whole new level,” said FLCC President Robert Nye. “Ontario County is excited to partner with FLCC on this innovative and exciting project that will create new opportunities for students and the broader community alike,” added Ontario County Administrator Christopher DeBolt. The greenhouse would have a hydroponic system and modern temperature and humidity controls to allow for different growing environments. Fundraising thus far includes $1 million secured by U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer in a federal appropriations bill and an estate gift from the late Adrienne O’Brien, a longtime friend of the College and supporter of the viticulture program. Funding for the master plan will require individual donations, grants, and county participation. A state program will provide a dollar for dollar match to support the capital improvements. The business of art A grant from Ontario County’s Arts, Culture and Recreation program will make it possible for students to complete internships at ArtSpace36, combining creative skills with the practicalities of operating a gallery. The $100,000 award comes from Ontario County’s share of American Rescue Plan Act funds, meant to counter the effects the pandemic had on arts, culture and recreation. Funds will also help cover utilities, staffing necessary to increase gallery hours, and stipends and travel costs for visiting artists. ArtSpace36, the College’s gallery in downtown Canandaigua, opened in 2019, about 10 months before the COVID-19 pandemic. The gallery currently works with the Community Support Center, a program of the Partnership for Ontario County, to provide several opportunities every month for informal creative expression. Create + Connect is open to residents age 7 and up twice a month. The schedule is available on the FLCC events calendar at events.flcc.edu. To learn more about the master plan and how you can support the new greenhouse, contact the FLCC Foundation at (585) 785-1541 or foundation@flcc.edu. Concept rendering of proposed horticulture facility created and provided by PLAN Architectural Studio, PC
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