From manufacturing to a modern day community: Input wanted on plans for former Schatz property
What started as a one-story building on Fairview Avenue in Poughkeepsie rose into a three-story construction plant geared to make high-grade ball bearings for large clients across the country including NAPA Auto Parts and Ford.
Schatz Federal Bearing Corporation was one of the largest employers in the area, along with IBM, employing over 1,200 people at its peak during the 1950s, manufacturing bearings for aerospace, defense, medical and semiconductor companies.
But after losing that NAPA account, the company declared bankruptcy, changed ownership, and moved to another smaller site down the street, leaving an abandoned 20-acre industrial complex behind.
The Schatz Federal Bearings Company site – which even had its own hospital at one point – has sat untouched since, aside from the occupancy of a waste management company, squatters and illegal dumping, despite its prime location near the Mid-Hudson Regional Hospital, the new Northside trail, and other residential areas.
The Dutchess County Department of Planning and Development recently released the final draft of a report studying the current conditions of the site with the hopes of turning it "into a dynamic, mixed-use destination, Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino said. “One that adds new housing options, retail, and workspace opportunities while stimulating economic growth for the local community.”
Dutchess County staff and consultants will present key findings and recommendations at the following upcoming meetings:
October 22, 2025 at 7 p.m.
Town of Poughkeepsie Town Board
1 Overocker Road, Poughkeepsie
November 6, 2025 at 5:30 p.m.
Dutchess County Legislature
22 Market Street, 6th Floor, Poughkeepsie
The public is encouraged to review the draft report on the project website, www.revitalizeschatz.com/project-documents, and provide comments through October 31, 2025. Comments may be submitted via the website’s “Share Your Comments” page: www.revitalizeschatz.com/comments.
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