Utica signs new operator deal for Valley View clubhouse

UTICA, N.Y. — The City of Utica has selected a new operator for the city-owned clubhouse and banquet facility at Valley View Golf Course, 620 Memorial Parkway.

Salvatore Longo, who owns Rocky’s on the Lake in Cold Brook, will begin operations sometime next year after the city completes $5 million in upgrades to the building. The city expects construction will be complete in time for the golf season, with Longo opening soon after.

As part of the agreement, Longo will invest more than $2 million in equipment and amenities.

“I couldn’t have dreamed up a better partner or a better proposal for this critical part of our city’s culture,” Mayor Robert M. Palmieri said in a news release announcing the agreement. “The Valley View site will look better, function better, and build more memories than ever before. Mr. Longo has been a benevolent member of this community and a successful owner of multiple businesses. This whole process is the culmination of a lot of hard work, but the start of a very bright future.”

Jeff Daniels previously operated the facility, which was then called Daniele’s Valley View. The city announced last September it was seeking a new operator and his lease was not renewed.

The search for a new operator came shortly after the city announced the clubhouse renovation and expansion project. The project includes a 6,000-square-foot addition, making the total size of the clubhouse 22,500 square feet.

Work will also include a new grill room and bar, additional restrooms, indoor golf simulators, new windows and roof, a covered outdoor patio with fireplace, additional parking, and accessibility improvements.

Longo’s agreement with the city includes a graduated rent scale over an unspecified period that can be extended up to 20 years. The city’s goal is for Longo to run a restaurant, banquet facility, and clubhouse to accommodate guests year-round.

According to the city’s press release, Longo’s proposal was judged best based on the criteria laid out in the request for proposals. He is a Utica native and the founder of Northern Safety in Frankfort. He recently donated $1 million toward the construction of the Sal Longo Field in Thomas R. Proctor Park.

“My family and myself have so many memories that were harvested at Valley View, and I took on this project to create those kinds of memories for as many people as possible,” Longo said. “I’m excited to show everyone in Utica and beyond the vision and potential I see in this great location. Next to a world-class golf course and overlooking this wonderful city, my goal is to build a venue for all to enjoy. I’m happy to accept the awarded contract, and my family and my staff cannot wait to serve the great people of this region.”