BAINBRIDGE – As the Cooperstown Medical Transport building at Bainbridge’s business park nears completion, more safety and new jobs are soon to follow.

The building is nearly 90 percent complete. Fifty jobs are anticipated in addition to enhanced emergency medical response for the region, said Bainbridge Development Corporation President Lew Whitney.

The Bainbridge Development Corp. (BDC) is a non-for-profit organization made up of volunteers who work with the community and perspective business owners to promote economic growth. Sixteen years ago, the development corporation negotiated with Ken and Jane Benson, two community-minded individuals, for the purchase of a 10-acre plot of land that would be ideal for the establishment of new businesses.

The BDC was able to remove hurdles for prospective new businesses by getting the 10-acre plot ready for immediate construction, once the proper zoning permits were acquired. Preparation of the land was accomplished through loans and grants procured with the aid of Commerce Chenango and New York Senator Tom Libous. Construction of water, electrical and road infrastructure in the park was completed in 1997 for an estimated $200,000.