The Final Days of the Broome Developmental Center

Despite the concerted efforts of families, area residents and elected officials, the Broome Developmental Center will close next week.

Bob Joseph/WNBF News [file][/caption]State officials in July 2013 announced the Town of Dickinson facility would close this month and it's happening right on schedule.

Nearly 700 people had been employed at the center on Glenwood Road. At the time the cost-cutting move was announced, the facility was serving 166 people.

Many residents and officials had expressed concerns to the state focusing on public safety and the movement of clients from institutionalized to community-based programs.

Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo said she was "very worried" about where some of the residents were being placed.

Speaking on WNBF Radio's Binghamton Now program, Lupardo said there were "lots of issues all across the board" that are of concern because of the center's closing.

Lupardo, an Endwell Democrat, described the move as heartbreaking for those who had opposed the plan. She predicted in the future "we'll look back on this decision and regret how this was rolled out."

David Jenkins, president of CSEA Local 449, said union officials have not been informed of any plans for the building. He said all individuals who had been served by the center are to be placed in new locations by March 31.

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