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$61.4 million in economic grants to help 'revitalize' North Country, say state Sens. Griffo, Ritchie

Posted 12/12/16

Two state senators who represent St. Lawrence County say that the $61.4 in awards from the state’s annual regional economic development council (REDC) funding to the North Country say it is …

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$61.4 million in economic grants to help 'revitalize' North Country, say state Sens. Griffo, Ritchie

Posted

Two state senators who represent St. Lawrence County say that the $61.4 in awards from the state’s annual regional economic development council (REDC) funding to the North Country say it is “great news” and is “reason to celebrate.”

View earlier story about REDC funding recipients.

“This award reflects how committed all the members of the REDC are to achieving the goals that will continue to revitalize our region,” said Sen. Joe Griffo, R-Rome, of the 47th Senate District, which includes the towns of Massena, Brasher, Norfolk, Stockholm, Potsdam, Pierrepont, Russell, Clifton, Fine, and Pitcairn in St. Lawrence County.

“Not only will this investment in our ideas help the North Country seize upon the unique economic opportunities we have for growth, jobs and stability, but it will also further fuel the positive vision we need to achieve our true potential, Griffo said. “We are grateful for this generous investment, and I look forward to the progress that will continue to transform the North Country for the better.”

“Today, people across our region have reason to celebrate,” said 48th District Sen. Patty Ritchie, whose district includes northern and western St. Lawrence County.

Ritchie said that “funding awarded to projects in St. Lawrence County—including support for the Oswegatchie River Blueway Trail and the Canton Grasse River Waterfront Revitalization Plan —will harness the beauty of the North Country to foster economic growth. In addition, an exciting new project receiving funding will establish 40 acres of greenhouses for growing fresh produce, capitalizing on the ‘eat local movement’ and in turn, creating jobs in St. Lawrence County.”

The North Country Regional Economic Development Council is giving $6,009,961 to 16 St. Lawrence County projects, with the largest single grant, $1.6 million, to Hemo Medica in Massena. They will receive $1.6 million to create a new pharmaceutical business, purchase new equipment and a vacant building and upgrade it to a current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) production plant and lab.

Confluent Energies, Inc. in Ogdensburg will get $1,220,000 to establish 40 acres of greenhouses to grow leafy green vegetables using a hydroponic system. The produce will be sold to the market reachable by truck within 24 hours of the facilities, according to the governor’s office

Canton, Potsdam, Massena and Ogdensburg are to receive funds for infrastructure upgrades or for waterfront revitalization projects.