Sen. Seward Announces Local Development Funding

State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I-Oneonta) today announced that $323.6 million was awarded to the four regions of the state he represents through the ninth round of Regional Economic Development Council awards.

 “The Regional Economic Development Council approach is one I have supported since its inception because it ensures projects with local backing will receive the extra boost they need to succeed,” said Senator Seward.  “The award winning projects in the 51^st Senate District are extremely diverse and will pay long-term dividends when it comes to job creation, quality of life, environmental protection, and new opportunities for growth.” 

 REDC grant award winners in Senator Seward’s district include:  $2.5 million for a major expansion project at Feldmeier Equipment in Little Falls; $200,000 to establish the Otsego County Microenterprise Program; $50,000 to assist Otsego County prepare a community energy plan; $800,000 for Springbrook to revive the Ford Block in downtown Oneonta; $1 million  for infrastructure upgrades in the Village of Richfield Springs; $1 million for wastewater treatment plan upgrades in the Village of Cobleskill; $500,000 to renovate and repair the Parrot House in the Village of Schoharie; $705,635 to implement a streambank stabilization program in the Town of Dryden; $500,000 for the City of Cortland Community Child Care Project; $800,000 for the J.M. Murray Center manufacturing expansion; $200,000 for the Town of Cortlandville to construct Phase 2 of the Gutchess Lumber Sports Complex.

 “I was extremely pleased to offer my support throughout the grant application process and congratulate the many award winners from the 51^st Senate District.  Local leaders in business, education, economic development, and government collaborate year-round to advance the best projects and the number of winners is a testament to their hard work,” Seward added.

 A total of $761 million is being awarded for economic development projects in ten different regions of New York State.  Senator Seward represents portions of the Central New York, Mid-Hudson, Mohawk Valley, and Southern Tier regions.  Central New York, Mohawk Valley and Southern Tier regions were named REDC “top performers” and received higher awards.

“Programs like the Regional Economic Development Council grants have helped transform how we deliver state funding and generate economic growth.  Jobs have been created and new projects continue to come on line everyday thanks to REDC investments,” Senator Seward concluded.