By JIMMY LAWTON

MASSENA -- Using a $60,000 grant, the St. Lawrence River Valley Redevelopment Agency will make improvements to two of its buildings in the Massena Industrial Park.

Industrial Development Agency Director Patrick J. Kelly said buildings are in working condition, but improvements would make the buildings more attractive to potential tenants.

The IDA serves as staff for the River Agency.

The grant was approved by the North Country Regional Economic Development Council and will be issued as a reimbursement for work that till take place later this year.

The agency purchased Lots 18 and 19 in the Massena Industrial Park, 12 Commerce Drive, in 2011, to use as a location for potential employers.

Kelly said owning a building that could house businesses was part Agency's strategic plan.

Currently, one of the buildings is occupied by Fockler Industries, a metal working company.

Kelly said the buildings were vacant for a number of years prior to the purchase leaving them in workable, but not ideal condition.

Kelly said the River Agency purchased the buildings with the intention or marketing them as assets to attract businesses. He said the improvements will increase marketability of the structures.

Kelly said the project includes plumbing and heating work as well as some cosmetic improvements to deteriorated doors. Although the project is not aimed at improving efficiency, he expects the heating work will make the building a bit greener.

"We anticipate some the heating systems work will result in some efficiency improvements by nature of using more modern equipment," he said.

He said estimated the total costs at $75,000. The River Agency will cover any amount over $60,000.

Kelly said Lot 18 is vacant and offers about 20,000 square feet of space. Lot 19 has about 9,000 square feet available.