Ogdensburg and Massena will receive nearly $2 million as part of $6.4 million awarded to eight North Country municipalities through Round 5 of the Restore New York Communities Initiative.

In Ogdensburg the $1 million grant will aid in the rehabilitation of the former Newell Manufacturing industrial facility in downtown Ogdensburg. The building's current condition has prevented project activity from moving forward, and a rehabilitation will transform it into an economic development asset for the city and region.

In Massena a $987,000 grant will help transform the Old Mill at 38 Water Street that once operated as a grain mill in the late 1800s. The project will redevelop the 11,365 square-foot building into a mixed-use development with river views, two residential apartments and a local brewery/pub on the main floor.

Restore New York supports municipal revitalization efforts by awarding funding for projects that will reinvigorate downtowns and generate new economic opportunity in communities from Western New York to Long Island. Nearly $81 million was awarded to 71 municipalities statewide.

Round 5 of the Restore New York Communities Initiative was enacted in the FY 2017 State Budget, and Empire State Development was designated to implement the program. Cities, towns and villages were all eligible to apply for support for projects that include demolition, deconstruction, rehabilitation or reconstruction of vacant, abandoned, condemned and surplus properties. Projects located in economically distressed communities were emphasized and encouraged.

Sen. Patty Ritchie said, "Through Restore NY, communities are given the resources they need to transform properties into catalysts for growth that help to boost economies, create jobs and improve the quality of life for residents. I am excited to see how awardees use these funds to help parts of the North Country reach their full potential and thank Governor Cuomo his support of their efforts."

Sen. Joe Griffo said, "I am pleased to have supported and advocated for the local community projects that were submitted for funding under Restore NY, which has helped to rejuvenate and revitalize local municipalities for a number of years. This funding will help to eliminate blight, rehabilitate neighborhoods and former industrial sites and will foster future growth in communities in the Mohawk Valley and North Country, as well as throughout the state."

Assemblymember Addie Jenne said, "Restore NY continues to support transformative change in our communities through projects that will generate new economic growth. I'm happy to see this important funding awarded to projects from Watertown to Massena, and all across the North Country."

Sen. Betty Little said, "I am very pleased Malone and Plattsburgh are being awarded this funding. Eyesore buildings detract from the positives in a community, deter investments and, in some cases, actually create public hazards as properties further deteriorate. This funding is big boost of capital. I was glad to support it as part of last year's budget along with Governor Cuomo and many of my colleagues. This will make a real impact and I'm hopeful serve as a catalyst for growth."

Assemblymember Billy Jones said, "The North Country has many downtowns and village centers that have the potential to be revamped and revitalized. I have seen many instances where Restore New York has worked with municipalities to bring buildings back to life, transforming communities and effectively changed the economy giving business owners and residents hope for the future. This year's funding, especially in Malone and Plattsburgh, will support downtown revitalization efforts and incorporate amenities to spur future growth. These rehabilitated buildings will once again serve as economic engines for the North Country."