The long-abandoned Ontario and Western (O&W) train station on Wickham Avenue in Middletown is finally on track for a revival. Mayor Joseph DeStefano announced plans to begin renovations next spring and complete the project by early 2026, with an estimated cost of $24-28 million. The historic station, designed by renowned architect Bradford Gilbert in the late 1800s, played a significant role in Middletown’s growth as a major stop on the O&W railway connecting New York Harbor to Lake Ontario.
After the railway company folded in 1957, the station fell into disrepair and was damaged by fire in 2004. Now, with funding secured and a new tenant onboard, the building will be restored to its former glory. The Regional Economic Community Action Program (RECAP) will move its Head Start program into the renovated space, expanding its capacity to serve more children from low-income families. The project is expected to create 34 new jobs and provide much-needed childcare services in the area.
Funding sources for the reconstruction include grants from the New York state Dormitory Authority, the Office of Community Renewal, Empire State Development, and federal COVID-19 stimulus money. The City of Middletown has issued bonds totaling $6 million for the project, with additional support from local representatives like Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther and state Senator James Skoufis. The restoration of the O&W train station symbolizes a new chapter in Middletown’s history, bringing hope and opportunity to the community.
The renovation plan for the station was spearheaded by our mayor, who hails from the first ward. Financial assistance for the project was secured from Senator Skoufis and Assemblywoman Gunther, for which we are grateful.
According to the Historical Society of Middletown and the Wallkill Precinct, the station is the ninth property in Middletown to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
