The iconic IBM Country Club complex in the town of Union is getting new attention from Broome County economic development officials for a future project.

The property at 4301 Watson Boulevard has been idle for several years after being used for decades by IBM Endicott employees and their families for a wide range of recreational activities.

The Broome County Industrial Development Agency board Wednesday authorized an option agreement for the purchase of the property.

Agency executive director Stacey Duncan said the owner will be paid $5,000 for the six-month option with a potential renewal for another six months.

The Watson Boulevard property has been damaged by vandals in recent years. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)
The Watson Boulevard property has been damaged by vandals in recent years. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)
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Records show the property was acquired from Broome County for $260,000 in November 2009.

Owner Paul Darpino said he's "excited" about the interest development officials have taken in the property. He said he'd been having conversations with agency representatives over the past several months.

Duncan said the old country club site is of "significant importance" to the town of Union. She said given the poor condition of the complex, a "complete tear-down" of the existing structures would likely be needed before any redevelopment plan could move forward.

Duncan said preliminary estimates suggest the demolition work could cost as much as $2 million.

A view inside the lobby of what once was the IBM Country Club on June 19, 2019. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)
A view inside the lobby of what once was the IBM Country Club on June 19, 2019. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)
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Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com

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