December 11, 2014 (ONEONTA, NY) – The County of Otsego Industrial Development Agency (the IDA) announced today that it has received numerous grant awards for economic development projects based in Otsego County, totaling more than $700,000. Funding for the projects has been awarded through the Mohawk Valley Regional Economic Development Council Consolidated Funding Application (CFA) process.
IDA leadership credits the success of any of their funding bids to the backing of NY State Senator James Seward and Assemblyman Bill Magee. “Both Senator Seward and Assemblyman Magee have been tremendously helpful in shepherding these funding bids through the process and we are grateful for their support,” says Robert Hanft, IDA Board Chair.
“There is a well-recognized and long-standing need for targeted initiatives in Otsego County to generate increased economic activity,” said NY State Senator James Seward (R/C/I – Oneonta). “I have advocated for these projects throughout the process, because I recognize the value they will bring to the community for years to come. These grant awards represent a major victory for Otsego County and an important first step toward growth and prosperity for the people who live there.”
“New economic activity helps companies new and old, while good-paying jobs will keep our young people from deciding to look for opportunities elsewhere,” said Assemblyman Bill Magee (D-Nelson). “That’s why I want to make sure that residents in Otsego County receive their fair share of economic development funding. The projects that I supported and that were selected for funding by Governor Cuomo demonstrate my ongoing commitment to job growth in the region.”
A full list of funded projects, with descriptions, is attached.
The County of Otsego Industrial Development Agency (the IDA) is a non-profit public benefit agency whose mission is to attract new industry, encourage industrial modernization and facilitate the creation of new job opportunities in the County. The IDA is governed by the actions of its Board of Directors, who are appointed by the Chair of the County legislature. The IDA is self-funded and is not an office or department of the Otsego County government.
Otsego IDA Projects
Cooperstown Comprehensive Plan
Funded at $58,000
This request will fund, in partnership with the Otsego County IDA and other local partners, a detailed Comprehensive Plan and Downtown Revitalization Strategy for the Village of Cooperstown. A blueprint for action will be produced and will guide development investment and attraction.
Otsego County Agricultural Microenterprise Program
Funded at $200,000
This program will focus on agricultural enterprises. It will include a required entrepreneurial training program and is expected to assist 10 enterprises countywide.
Springbrook Residential Facility Improvements
Funded at $400,000
The project consists of renovations and capital improvements to 10 group residences (IRA’s) owned and operated by Springbrook a nonprofit state licensed organization that provides education, therapeutic residential, service coordination and related services to individuals who have developmental disabilities. The improvements all address issues of safety, accessibility, and energy efficiency and are also generally required to meet NYS requirements. The project will result in code compliance and a safer more livable environment for the clientele being served.
Otsego County Rail Yards Development Plan
Funded at $47,500
This project is the preparation of a development plan for a 200 acre industrial site located in the City of Oneonta known as the Rail Yards. The plan will determine the economic opportunity and market for industrial activities for the subject site.