North Country This Week

OGDENSBURG – Ogdensburg businessman Jeffrey M. Skelly said he’s probably a year out from doing any major construction at the Ogdensburg Cinema, but he intends to keep it looking nice in the meantime.

Skelly was out with crews and his grandson removing salt, dirt and debris from the building which sits at the corner of Ford and State streets.

He said he will be meeting with officials from the Department of Transportation regarding some issues with sidewalks and is hoping down the road to add foliage to the block.

“I decided I wanted to get out the gate a little early and get the property cleaned up. I wanted to show people that we are taking it seriously,” he said.

Skelly said he was cleaning up not only the theater but also around the former Amvets building, which is connected to theater and was recently purchased by George Ruddy II.

“I just want to make downtown look nice,” Skelly said.

Skelly has also been using the marquee at the former theater to support local businesses by flashing names and contact information on the sign.

“I think it’s a nice way to help out the community he said.”

Skelly also recently renovated Washington Elementary Schools into high-end apartments. He said 10 units are completed and rented and he is working on the 11th, which he expects to complete in August.