Proposed Training Center Gets Big Tax Break

The Greater New York Automobile Dealers Assn. has received approval for $11.5 million in real estate and sales tax incentives for a proposed facility to train students for dealership jobs.

The association's Center for Automotive Education & Training will provide professional and technical training for approximately 1,000 students a year through its 40-week courses.

It is estimated the project will generate more than $8 million in tax revenue over the next 25 years. The construction project is expected to be completed fall 2005.

While the demand for qualified automotive technicians is increasing, their numbers are dwindling. The U.S. Department of Labor Statistics estimates there is currently a shortage of approximately 60,000 skilled automotive technicians nationwide, due in part to the high incidence of older mechanics choosing early retirement over keeping up with new technology.

This shortage is especially critical in the New York City-area where the number of new-car sales is among the highest in the country and no automotive training facility exists.

“This new training facility will prepare thousands of residents of New York for rewarding, high-paying jobs and careers in the automotive service and sales industry,” says Andrew Alper, chairman of the New York City Industrial Development Agency.

The New York dealers association acquired the seven-acre site in Queens in 1999.

When completed, the Center will occupy approximately 90,000 sq. ft. that will be used for offices, classrooms, and service and parts training as well as education programs run by the association, local dealerships and auto manufacturers.

“We're thankful the city has embraced this project. We expect it to generate hundreds of jobs each year, helping to fuel our local economy” says Assn. President President Mark Schienberg.