Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara announced significant state funding awarded to the Capital Region through the Regional Economic Development Council’s (REDC). Empire State Development awarded a total of $800 million across the 10 economic development regions of New York State. The Capital Region was named a Top Performer at this year’s event, receiving $85 million in funding for a number of transformative projects with nearly $5 million funding development projects in Schenectady County that include:

• $2,900,000 for the renovation of the former Breslaw’s Department Store located at 136 State Street in Schenectady to be used for a food and beverage industry incubator;
• $503,251 for a docking facility and multi-use path on the Mohawk River that will connect to the Mohawk-Hudson Bike-Hike Trail, Rivers Casino Resort and the Mohawk Harbor complex;
• $500,000 for Proctors to complete the installation of new seats and a hearing loop system in its historic main theatre;
• $415,120 to create a nature trail connecting miSci and Vale Park and an outdoor classroom for environmental and conservancy educational programs;
• $205,417 to re-construct a handball court, rehabilitate tennis and basketball courts, repave walkways, add landscaping, fencing and install adequate lighting in Jerry Burrell Park in Schenectady;
• $48,750 for the Town of Rotterdam to purchase a parcel in Rotterdam Water District #3 in the Great Flats Aquifer to protect water quality of the public well fields;

“Today’s announcement is great news for the Capital Region and another big win for the Schenectady area,” said Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara. “This significant investment keeps us moving forward with exciting plans to develop our economic future,” Assemblyman Santabarbara said. “As a top performer, this funding recognizes the amazing progress that has transformed of our region in a vibrant upstate community, highlights our region’s diverse industry and encourages the continued growth of good-paying jobs for local families,” Santabarbara added. “With the upcoming legislative session upon us, economic development in our upstate communities remains a top priority for me, and I look forward to keep building upon this progress.”