Rock climbing gym The Pad hosted a grand opening celebration at its new Vestal location today. The event, which ran from noon to 4 pm, was free to the public featured a range of activities including bouldering, rock climbing, and various competitions.

As the only climbing gym within a 90-mile drive of Binghamton, The Pad is already a standout in the area. However, owner Yishai Horowitz believes there’s more to the gym that makes it special.

"We try to attract families, students, as well as young professionals; and what we're aiming for is to be a third space. So you have your home, work or school, and then you have that other space; and we try to be that other space," said Horowitz.

According to Horowitz, these "third spaces," are essential to building community, as they provide opportunities for people to form new connections.

"We've had multiple people form businesses together, get married together, and they've all met at our climbing gym," Horowitz said.

As the event wrapped up, Horowitz reflected on what stood out most during the day: "Seeing all the smiling faces and people so excited to be here."

When asked why people should visit The Pad, his answer was simple and heartfelt: “Community.”