The total cost of the two-phase renovation project is expected to be $10 million. The first phase includes transforming the gymnasium into a state-of-the-art rehearsal space and reducing emissions, removing hazardous materials and constructing administrative offices, the county said.

The second phase includes a new 3,000 square foot addition for a second rehearsal space, acoustic treatments to turn classrooms into music studios, and a new HVAC system.

According to the county, the youth orchestra purchased the eight-acre property earlier this year to create a dedicated space to house all of their ensembles, which now have to practice and perform at different locations. The new facility will allow ESYO to expand its programs and become an incubator for new ideas in music education, the county statement said.

He will now be able to explore plans to launch a second BOCES after-school program to serve Scotia-Glenville and surrounding school districts, including Mohonasen, Schalmont, Duanesburg and Amsterdam.

The space can also be used by other community music programs, such as the Schenectady Symphony.

“Investing in ESYO’s new facilities is a unique opportunity to support music education for young people in our community while helping to create a new regional asset that can boost our local economy,” said Legislator Michelle Ostrelich. “This once vacant building will become a community center that will draw more than 500 visitors to the area each week and create much-needed studio and rental space for private music teachers, businesses and other music organizations.”