Artpark lands state award in Round XII of Regional Economic Development Council initiative

Third batch of approved awards include 28 shovel-ready projects; full list of awardees can be found here

Gov. Kathy Hochul announced more than $24 million has been awarded to support 28 priority projects across New York through the Regional Economic Development Council initiative. Round XII included core capital grant and tax-credit funding from Empire State Development, which was made available on a continuous and competitive basis to support the immediate needs of communities. Funding will support impactful projects that align with each region's strategic goals.

"These 28 shovel-ready projects represent incredible opportunities to foster economic growth, create jobs, and drive private investment across New York state," Hochul said. "Thanks to the continued efforts and recommendations of the Regional Economic Development Councils, our REDC initiative will continue to help communities meet pressing needs through strategic investments and robust state support."

Lt. Gov. Antonio Delgado, chair of the Regional Economic Development Councils, said, "Serving in this role, it has been incredible traveling across the state and seeing firsthand the positive impact these investments are having in communities across New York. Through the Regional Economic Development Councils, we will continue to boost our economy, create good jobs, and invest in our future."

Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, "Empowering regional stakeholders to take their knowledge and understanding of local priorities and assets to best direct state investments is a proven formula for success. These shovel-ready projects will drive our economy forward and lead to growth and prosperity across the state."

This third round of projects was recommended by each Regional Council because of their project readiness and alignment with each region's strategic plan. Locally:

•Artpark & Company Inc. power extension, $800,000 ESD Grant: Artpark will expand its performing arts and visual arts programming in the newly constructed Connectors Trails Project areas of Earl W. Brydges Artpark State Park. The additional power into public spaces of Artpark State Park will better connect Artpark with the Village of Lewiston and the existing trails of the Lower Niagara Region, engaging new audiences and providing year-round programming that supports increased local and regional economic impacts. Total project cost: $9.8 million

A press release stated, “The REDC process continues to support and empower regional stakeholders in developing strategic plans and funding priorities that meet local economic needs. To date, through the REDC initiative, more than $7.7 billion has been awarded to more than 9,500 job creation and community development projects consistent with each region's strategic plan. The application for ESD grant funds has closed for the round and is anticipated to reopen in mid-May. Applicants with strong, shovel-ready projects that align with the state and region's economic development priorities can prepare to apply through the consolidated funding application.”

In 2011, 10 Regional Councils were established to develop long-term strategic plans for economic growth for their regions. The councils are public-private partnerships made up of local experts and stakeholders from business, academia, local government, and non-governmental organizations. Learn more at regionalcouncils.ny.gov.