The Parrott House Transformation: SEEC’s First Impact Fund Initiative
Community investors are invited to join Main Street beautification with SEEC
(Schoharie, NY – March 24, 2025) - Schoharie Economic Enterprise Corporation (SEEC) is excited to announce its first co-investment through the SEEC Impact Fund, the historic district centerpiece known as The Parrott House renovation project in the Village of Schoharie. This project will bring an historically sensitive transformation to the boutique Parrott House hotel, originally built in 1870, and is set to open in Fall 2025. The renovation will include 19 guest rooms, a farm-to-table restaurant, coffee bar and flexible event space. SEEC project coordination and a local $1.5 million unconventional loan spurred progress
During a recent routine Village walk-thru for construction inspection, it was described as “encouraging”.
“They’re really making great progress here,” said David Knoop, Code Officer for the Village of Schoharie. “I live just a few blocks away, and I’m looking forward to seeing this place come back to life.”
The owners of The Parrott House LLC, Alexandra Von Zehle and Nick Ahmetaj, are leading the charge to revitalize this historic property. The Parrott House renovation will not only preserve an important piece of Schoharie’s history but will also address a critical need for quality lodging and revitalization on Schoharie County Main Streets. As a boutique hotel, it will create a unique destination for visitors and help further spark the local economy in cooperation of nearby attractions, wedding and special event venues.
“Having a boutique hotel on Schoharie’s Main Street not only puts the historic building back in use, it responds to a desperate need in the community for additional quality lodging,” remarked Cassandra Harrington, President and CEO of Destination Marketing Corporation.
SEEC engaged private donors to enable the project to advance with professional guidance and a non-traditional loan through the SEEC Impact Fund.
“We were proud to support Alex and Nick move the project forward when it became difficult to secure conventional financing,” remarked an anonymous donor. “And to know, SEEC will be beneficiary of the loan payback so they are able to invest in future projects to drive sustainable community growth, we immediately saw the win-win.”
Also made possible by local donations, the SEEC Prosperity Fund launched The Curb Appeal Program. A matching grant initiative, the program offers up to $5,000 for exterior improvements to commercial properties, with a focus on high-impact measures that support the aesthetic and economic vitality of local business districts.
This year’s Curb Appeal Program builds upon the success of its inaugural launch in 2024, which saw over $200,000 co-invested into 11 local business properties across Schoharie County. Ten new applicants include businesses from Cobleskill, Middleburgh, Schoharie, Jefferson, and Central Bridge, ranging from local restaurants and hardware stores to libraries and mercantile shops.
SEEC’s matching grants, paired with the design and technical services provided, aim to support these businesses in making exterior improvements that attract customers, increase foot traffic, and enhance the community’s overall visual appeal.
Applications for the 2025 program closed on March 2nd, and the Review Committee will now begin evaluating submissions. Awards will be announced in April 2025, and all projects must be completed by December 31, 2025.
###
Become a Community Investor with SEEC
As a 501c3 not-for-profit public benefit corporation, SEEC invites community-minded residents and organizations to join the Marge and Randy Becker Foundation, Sterling Insurance Company Foundation, Fenimore Asset Management charitable giving and other generous donors to ensure the Impact and Prosperity Funds leave a lasting impact on community. To make a tax-deductible donation or submit an Interest Form visit SEECNY.ORG/invest-1
About SEEC
The Schoharie Economic Enterprise Corp (SEEC) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to fostering economic growth in Schoharie County. Through initiatives like the SEEC Impact Fund and Prosperity Fund Curb Appeal Program, SEEC is driving positive change, supporting local businesses, and preserving the county’s historic character.
For more information about SEEC economic development initiatives, visit SEECNY.ORG.
PRESS CONTACT:
Emily Smith, Marketing Coordinator Schoharie Economic Enterprise Corp (SEEC) Email: marketing@seecny.org Phone: 518-517-1700