CHENANGO COUNTY – Chenango County stands to benefit from nearly $1.5 million in state funding to subsidize projects in Norwich, Afton and Greene.
Governor Andrew Cuomo announced on Thursday that $709.2 million in economic and community development funding was awarded through round four of the Regional Economic Development Council (REDC). The state’s ten different regional councils were established in 2011 to help promote economic development across the state.
The REDC initiative allows community, business and academic leaders to tailor specific strategic plans for the region in order to support economic growth through job creation and the promotion of local business.
This year, the Souther Tier Regional Economic Development Council is slated to receive $80.8 million to fund a total 91 projects throughout the region.
In Chenango County, the big winner is the City of Norwich, set to receive $904,000 of the $1.5 million being allocated for seven projects in the county. Included in the city’s allotment is $250,000 for renovation of seven mixed-use buildings in the city’s Broad Street Revitalization Project, and another $120,000 for renovation of six structures and new streetscape in the Heritage Block Renewal project. Additionally, $534,000 is awarded to the city for improvements to the Heritage Block area parking lot.
The Heritage Block project is a redevelopment initiative to assist private developers in the restoration of dilapidated properties at 42 and 44-46 North Broad St., and four buildings on Lackawanna Avenue. The project also includes design and renovation of the parking lot shared by said properties as well as additional properties at 8-12 Mechanic St. and 38-40 N. Broad St.
“The Heritage Block is a blighted area,” said Norwich Mayor Joseph Maiurano. “This funding is going to help with some of those properties and make the city more attractive to bring in business ... We’re grateful for the support of Governor Andrew Como, Senator Tom Libous and Assemblyman Clifford Crouch. We would have never gotten this without their support.”
