Local counties named in first round of County Infrastructure Grant Program

ALBANY | Gov. Kathy Hochul has announced that more than $36 million has been awarded to 48 projects across New York through the County Infrastructure Grant Program, including in Clinton, Essex and Warren counties. First launched in November 2024 and administered by Empire State Development, the program awards grants to support small- and medium-sized county-led infrastructure projects. Modern infrastructure directly impacts New York State's economic vitality, and supporting small- and medium-scale infrastructure projects enables the state to remain competitive and generate continued economic growth. "I know firsthand how critical infrastructure is in order to uplift communities and bring families and loved ones together," Gov. Hochul said July 2. "From my early days on a Town Board to serving as Erie County Clerk and in Congress, I've seen how investments like these can breathe new life into neighborhoods, drive housing growth, support vibrant downtowns, and bring new energy to local economies. We're putting local priorities front and center as we build a stronger New York." The program was established to transform New York's infrastructure to better meet the needs of New Yorkers. The $50 million program was included in the State's FY 2025 Enacted Budget, with an additional $50 million included in the FY 2026 Enacted Budget. Grants up to $500,000 are awarded to priority projects identified by the county that support economic development, contribute to placemaking or encourage tourism. Enhanced awards of up to $1 million are available for projects supporting the creation of housing with ten or more units. The funding being awarded will support the construction of over 2,750 new homes. Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, "Investing in local infrastructure projects generates new opportunities to increase housing and support sustainable economic development. The grants awarded through this program will enable counties across the state to address critical community needs that would not otherwise happen, promoting local and regional growth." In the first round of funding, $500,000 was awarded to Clinton County, in partnership with Columbia Development Companies, to extend a road within the Clinton County Business Innovation Gateway, unlocking access to a currently landlocked 15-acre parcel suitable for industrial development and a 17.1-acre parcel for educational development. The extension will support construction of a state-of-the-art facility benefiting Champlain Valley Educational Services/BOCES and its technical training programs. Mark Henry, Chairperson of the Clinton County Legislature, said, "This funding helps move forward a priority project that aligns with our ongoing efforts to grow Clinton County's economy and prepare sites for development. Unlocking this parcel adds value to our Business Innovation Gateway and supports a broader vision for attracting investment and jobs to the region." Following the announcement, Patty Waldron, Chair of the Clinton County Economic Development Committee, said, "We're pleased to see support for a project that connects infrastructure with workforce and education. This investment clears the way for future job growth and helps strengthen the pipeline between industry and the technical skills being taught right here in Clinton County." Molly Ryan, Executive Director of the Clinton County Industrial Development Agency, said, "We're proud to congratulate our partners at Clinton County on securing this strategic investment. Extending infrastructure at the Business Innovation Gateway is a critical step in unlocking new development opportunities — from advanced manufacturing sites to next-generation training facilities. This award underscores the value of strong public-sector coordination and a shared commitment to building a future-ready economy." In Franklin County, $500,000 will support the modernization of Franklin County Emergency Services' radio system and install communication buildings in Bombay, Duane and St. Regis Falls. Upgrading the system will provide clear, uninterrupted communication for first responders, enhancing public safety. Warren County was awarded $975,000 toward the construction of a wastewater treatment plant and sewer collection system for downtown North Creek. This new sewer district will unlock the economic development potential of Gore Mountain, which is undergoing an approximately $40 million upgrade, allowing for new home construction and the expansion of the Main Street business district, state officials said.

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Local counties named in first round of County Infrastructure Grant Program

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