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North Country loses out on $500 million 'Hunger Games' funding as Cuomo announces $85.1 million for projects across 7 counties

Posted 12/10/15

Updated 9:40 a.m. Dec. 11, 2015 The North Country has missed out on $500 million that could have been used for economic development projects throughout the North Country, but will receive a total of …

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North Country loses out on $500 million 'Hunger Games' funding as Cuomo announces $85.1 million for projects across 7 counties

Posted

Updated 9:40 a.m. Dec. 11, 2015

The North Country has missed out on $500 million that could have been used for economic development projects throughout the North Country, but will receive a total of $85.1 million.

Despite high hopes from local economic developers and state representatives theNorth Country was not awarded a chunk of the $1.5 billion Upstate Revitalization Initiative. Many officials, including Sen. Joseph Griffo criticized the competetion, which used one-time "surplus" funding to boost economic development in a way that left clear winners and losers. The competition has been referred to by media outlets as the "Hunger Games."

Griffo, R-Rome said he was disappointed about the news, and added that he was not pleased with the competition format that left the North Country

“We are disappointed that the Mohawk Valley and North Country did not meet the criteria that the Governor believes would have warranted $500 million in long-term investment through this year’s Upstate Revitalization Initiative,” Griffo said.

“While this funding would have gone a long way in helping us realize our full potential, it is encouraging to know that we have a clear understanding of what it will take to further capitalize on our current successes, to foster regional stability through a diversified economy, to help families rise out of poverty, and to create the exceptional career, educational and social opportunities necessary to attract younger people to our regions,” he said.

Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell was more optimistic about the funding. She said the North Country will still receive a significant influx of funding for many projects.

“This $85.1 million award to the North Country will breathe life into our communities through targeted investments in key industries that will build towards a future of sustainable job retention and growth. Together with last month's deal to prevent catastrophic job loss in Massena at Alcoa, this funding will ensure the region's economic prospects are bright,” she said.

“I want to thank the representatives from across the North Country who worked so hard to make this award possible. In addition to the $338.1 million which has already been invested in completed and ongoing projects throughout the North Country, I'm excited about the future this funding will help us create,” said Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa.

Sen. Betty Little, R-Queensbury, was also pleased with the allotment, but was disappointed that the county had missed out on the big money.

“Every region of the state is going to do well with large infusions of funding to support locally driven economic development plans,” said Sen. Betty Little. “Naturally, it is a disappointment that the North Country and Capital Region REDCs were not top awardees. However, that shouldn’t detract from their excellent plans and presentations. Both are poised to foster robust economic growth as a result of their hard work and collaboration. I know each will make very good use of the upcoming infusion of state resources.”

Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush, R-Black River, also seemed happy with the outcome.

“The $185 million funding from our state will be instrumental in building a healthy economy that will make our region more vibrant and business-friendly,” said Blankenbush. “I am so grateful for the hard work and dedication put forth by the people on our North Country and Mohawk Valley Regional Economic Development Councils. Because of their efforts, infrastructure, agriculture, bio- and hi-tech jobs, workforce development, tourism and community renewal will be prioritized in our community’s future. I look forward to working closely with the regional team and paving the way for more economic growth and innovation in our regions.”

Sen. Patty Ritchoie, R-Heuvelton, said, "The Regional Economic Development Council has a history of being the jumping-off point for so many significant projects throughout the region I represent.  I applaud all the hardworking members of the councils who worked tirelessly to prepare their proposals and congratulate both the Central and Northern New York Regions on today’s good news. "

Information on St. Lawrence County-specific awards can be seen in this story.