The village is in line to receive state grant funds that should provide some much-needed relief for tourists and Main Street business people, who will now have a place to tell visitors where they can go.

Friday, the village and Cooperstown Chamber of Commerce received word that Assemblyman Bill Magee would provide a grant in the amount of $50,000 for public restrooms on Main Street.

"The chamber has approached most of our elected public officials with a wish list that includes restrooms, bicycle racks, water fountains and other resident and visitor amenities. We are grateful that Assemblyman Magee has responded to our most critical need," chamber executive director Polly Renckens said.

Assemblyman Magee called mayor Carol Waller last Friday to notify her that he would be able to provide the grant and that he would like to see the funds used for a public restroom on Main Street if the village was in agreement.

"The need for centrally located public bathrooms has been identified repeatedly and there was no way that the village could afford such an amenity. We are thrilled," Waller said.

No location for the restrooms has been selected and Waller said the choice would be the subject of a public hearing to be held sometime after the new year.

In the past, two locations for public restrooms have been discussed by the trustees. One is Pioneer Park at the corner of Pioneer and Main Streets and the other is just off Main Street along the short driveway entrance to the Doubleday Field parking lot.

"Much work needs to be done to determine the exact location and design and we will be relying on the expertise of the planning board to guide us as we go forward," Waller said.

Renckens said that local architect Kurt Ofer is currently working on a design for the facility. The $50,000 grant may not be enough to construct the public restrooms, she cautioned, adding that additional funds may have to be sought to complete the financing.

"The facilities will enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors. We're very happy and grateful," said Marge Landers, co-chair of the Cooperstown Business Advancement Committee.