The Yorktown Chamber of Commerce, comprised of 204 members, has announced its merger with the Hudson Valley Gateway Chamber of Commerce, whose membership numbers approximately 400. The newly enlarged Chamber, which will retain the Gateway name, takes effect January 2025.
The merger combines and expands resources, opportunities and services for businesses and organizations across northern Westchester County and southern Putnam County. Operational efficiencies, member visibility and influence, community connections and regional initiatives will also be bolstered. Under the Hudson Valley Gateway umbrella, members represent Buchanan, Croton-on-Hudson, Cortlandt, Mohegan Lake, Montrose, Peekskill, Putnam Valley, Verplanck and now Yorktown, with its hamlets of Crompond, Jefferson Valley, Shrub Oak, and Yorktown Heights. (Mohegan Lake east of Lexington Avenue is also a Town of Yorktown hamlet, while Mohegan Lake west of Lexington Avenue is under the jurisdiction of the Town of Cortlandt.)
“Over the last few years, the Yorktown Chamber of Commerce has achieved remarkable milestones in growing membership and fostering economic growth,” said Karen Trendell, Yorktown Chamber President. “As we assessed our progress, it became clear that the time was right to engage in new opportunities for growth and impact. We are excited to merge with Hudson Valley Gateway to help reach the next level of success, including creating deeper collaborations and a more vibrant, resilient and prosperous business environment.”
“The merger opens new doors for Yorktown’s businesses by extending their reach across a broader geographic area,” said Yorktown Supervisor Ed Lachterman. “It’s a win-win, providing our business owners with greater access to regional resources and a stronger platform to share their messages.”
Hudson Valley Gateway, headquartered in Peekskill, offers consultive services for businesses, residents and tourists. As a regional tourism center, it plays a pivotal role in welcoming thousands of tourists to the Hudson Valley annually, said Gateway Executive Director Carole Voisey.
Under the newly combined Chamber, Gateway will keep open the existing Yorktown Chamber office space in the Jefferson Valley Mall, supplementing Gateway’s newly-renovated office in Peekskill at 1 South Division Street.
The Yorktown Chamber of Commerce will host an Open Forum at 6pm on Thursday, Dec. 5 outside the Chamber office on the first level of Jefferson Valley Mall, 650 Lee Blvd., Yorktown Heights. Chamber executive board members and representatives from Hudson Valley Gateway will be on hand to discuss the merger and answer questions. All are welcome and refreshments will be served.
