PLATTSBURGH — Eighty-two residences in Clinton, Essex and Franklin counties will see improvements thanks to grant funding from the North Country Regional Economic Development Council.
The towns of Willsboro, Chateaugay, Lewis and the Housing Assistance Program of Essex County Inc. are to receive $400,000 each. The Rural Preservation Company of Clinton County will get $50,000.
The money, which will pay for renovations at both single- and multi-family residences, will be administered by the New York State Department of Housing and Community Renewal.
It is part of a total $4.56 million earmarked for northern New York.
“Ensuring affordable and safe places for our workforce and families to live is a priority across the region,” said Council Co-chair Dr. Anthony Collins in a press release.
“More than half of residential housing in the North Country was constructed before the 1950-59 decade. Renovations that upgrade safety and energy-efficiency create jobs as well as serve our working families and elderly residents.”
Council Co-chair Garry Douglas, president of the North Country Chamber of Commerce, said the council’s Strategic Plan recognizes that quality communities are essential to economic growth, especially in the North Country.
“Having quality housing is essential to having quality communities, which is why we welcome this significant investment in our region’s housing stock,” he said.
Franklin County Legislator Billy Jones welcomed the announcement.
“I am very happy with the Regional Economic Development Council’s Grant of $103 million to the North Country and specifically the award of housing revitalization to the Town of Chateaugay,” he said. “We look forward to continued progress in the necessary areas and applaud the Regional Economic Development Council on their continued progress.”
Essex County Manager Daniel Palmer said the county looks forward to the success of these critical projects.
“These kinds of programs represent forward thinking and long-term investments in our quality of life here in the Adirondacks, and the governor understands how important that is to us.”
Clinton County Executive Michael Zurlo said the announcement was exciting news.
“As providing for our senior population remains a priority in Clinton County, this housing rehabilitation funding will certainly assist in this endeavor,” he said.
Email Dan Heath:
dheath@pressrepublican.com
