National Grid has awarded nearly $1 million to further develop and enhance two major economic development projects in Schenectady County.
“Schenectady County’s economic development team works closely every day with National Grid to bring new jobs and new investment to our community. We appreciate National Grid’s commitment to rebuilding our economy. These two grants helped our economic development team secure almost $70 million in new investments in our County,” said Vincent DiCerbo, Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature’s Committee on Economic Development and Planning.
Congressman Paul Tonko said, “Investments in our cities are investments that pay off for the entire region in terms of economic development, jobs and recreation. I want to thank National Grid for working in partnership with government and other local businesses to improve and strengthen the downtown Schenectady area and contribute to its vibrant rebirth.”
Metroplex has received a $763,000 grant to benefit a project that will link State Street and the Proctors block redevelopment area in downtown Schenectady to Union College and Union Graduate College. The project includes the rehabilitation and expansion of Center City, a $30 million mixed use commercial, retail, and tech complex that also features a new YMCA branch. A new five-story addition to Center City is currently under construction. The new pedestrian walkway that will link Center City to the two colleges will include energy efficient LED lighting and will serve as a connector between the two colleges and the growing downtown.
In addition, National Grid provided a $200,000 Brownfield Redevelopment Assistance grant for the cleanup of the ten-acre former “Big N” site. As a result of this rehabilitation project, the site was chosen as the home of the new, LEED certified Golub Headquarters, a $30 million project that is nearing completion just a few blocks from the new Center City complex. The new Golub Headquarters will bring 850 jobs to downtown Schenectady and represents a $37 million investment.
Showing posts with label Economic Development. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Economic Development. Show all posts
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Friday, April 2, 2010
Schenectady County welcomes new Schenectady YMCA Branch
Through hard work and vision, decay and stagnation have given way to growth and renewal. Recently, Susan E. Savage, Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature, was joined by Legislators Gary Hughes, Karen Johnson, and Angelo Santabarbara, Schenectady Mayor Brian Stratton, City Councilmembers Peggy King and Denise Brucker, representatives from Congressman Paul Tonko's office and other local officials in welcoming the new YMCA Schenectady Branch to the revitalized downtown Schenectady. This project is part of a $30 million investment to replace the old Center City with a new mixed use facility which will be another draw to downtown. Click here to watch video from the event.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Schenectady County Announces Four More Façade Projects
The unified economic development team put in place by the new Democratic Majority on the county Legislature in 2004 continues to produce results. Schenectady County’s Metroplex Development Authority recently announced plans to move forward with four façade improvement projects this year. The four projects all involve major upgrades to key storefronts on Upper Union Street.
“Redevelopment continues to take place throughout Schenectady County. These four façade projects, coupled with last year’s major streetscape improvements, show how small business and the County’s economic development team are working together.” said Susan E. Savage, Chair of the county Legislature.
"The unique partnership with Schenectady County Metroplex and the property owners in the Upper Union Street BID makes it possible for business owners to enhance their façades through this successful matching funds program,” said Guy Sementilli, BID Chair and himself a previous Façade Improvement Grant recipient at Scotti’s Restaurant, 1730 Union St. “The BID appreciates all Metroplex has done during the past three rounds of façade funding and we are looking forward to the improvements to come from round four. The continued improvements will make Upper Union Street a more attractive destination for years to come."
Metroplex will invest $122,000 in grant funding for these four projects that will be matched on at least a one to one basis by business and property owners. For this round of funding, Metroplex expects matching commitments of more than $500,000.
For more information, please click here.
“Redevelopment continues to take place throughout Schenectady County. These four façade projects, coupled with last year’s major streetscape improvements, show how small business and the County’s economic development team are working together.” said Susan E. Savage, Chair of the county Legislature.
"The unique partnership with Schenectady County Metroplex and the property owners in the Upper Union Street BID makes it possible for business owners to enhance their façades through this successful matching funds program,” said Guy Sementilli, BID Chair and himself a previous Façade Improvement Grant recipient at Scotti’s Restaurant, 1730 Union St. “The BID appreciates all Metroplex has done during the past three rounds of façade funding and we are looking forward to the improvements to come from round four. The continued improvements will make Upper Union Street a more attractive destination for years to come."
Metroplex will invest $122,000 in grant funding for these four projects that will be matched on at least a one to one basis by business and property owners. For this round of funding, Metroplex expects matching commitments of more than $500,000.
For more information, please click here.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Nine More Buildings To Receive Façade Improvements
The unified economic development team put in place by the new Democratic Majority on the county Legislature in 2004 continues to produce results. The Metroplex Development Authority recently announced that nine more buildings in downtown Schenectady will undertake façade improvement projects, bringing the total number of building owners that have used the downtown façade program to 101.
“The County is proud of our efforts to redevelop downtown Schenectady,” said Susan E. Savage, Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature. “These nine projects are key to continuing the momentum that is transforming the appearance of downtown Schenectady and the entire County.”
The nine projects represent a $230,000 investment from Metroplex which will be matched on a dollar-for-dollar basis by property owners. Since the program started, the private sector match has exceeded Metroplex’s contribution by a 2 to 1 margin.
For more information, please click here.
“The County is proud of our efforts to redevelop downtown Schenectady,” said Susan E. Savage, Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature. “These nine projects are key to continuing the momentum that is transforming the appearance of downtown Schenectady and the entire County.”
The nine projects represent a $230,000 investment from Metroplex which will be matched on a dollar-for-dollar basis by property owners. Since the program started, the private sector match has exceeded Metroplex’s contribution by a 2 to 1 margin.
For more information, please click here.
Monday, March 22, 2010
SENATOR SCHUMER PUSHES YOUTH SUMMER JOBS BILL
Senator Charles E. Schumer recently announced that he is working in support of The Youth Jobs Act of 2010, sponsored by Senator Patty Murray (D-WA). The current youth unemployment rate of 21.5% is a threat to our nation’s broader economic recovery as an entire generation of young women and men see their talents wasted. This bill would bring the Capital Region $3,637,585.00 for youth employment and job training and build on the successful stimulus program from last year. A recent study by Northwestern University has shown that a dollar earned by a young adult translates into three dollars in economic activity. Overall, this bill translates into a $225,000,000 boost for New York’s economy from this bill.
“More than any time in recent memory, summer jobs for teenagers and young adults are going to be tough to come by this summer,” said Schumer. “That’s why we need to start taking critical steps to immediately address the problem - investing in summer jobs programs will not only ensure that kids and young adults have the proper training to join the work force, but will relieve stress on middle class families and is a proven way to jumpstart a local economy.”
“Putting young people back to work is a proven way to help the economy, and is a goal we should be aggressively pursuing,” Schumer added. A similar program included in the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act used $1.2B in recovery act funding to create 300,000 jobs for unemployed youth. Here in Schenectady County, $392,457 was used under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 to enroll an additional 230 at-risk youth in the 2009 Schenectady County Summer Youth Employment Program and expand the program to more than 520 participants, each receiving critcal workforce training and life skills including resume writing, banking and budgeting, financing, and college exploration.
Click here for more information.
“More than any time in recent memory, summer jobs for teenagers and young adults are going to be tough to come by this summer,” said Schumer. “That’s why we need to start taking critical steps to immediately address the problem - investing in summer jobs programs will not only ensure that kids and young adults have the proper training to join the work force, but will relieve stress on middle class families and is a proven way to jumpstart a local economy.”
“Putting young people back to work is a proven way to help the economy, and is a goal we should be aggressively pursuing,” Schumer added. A similar program included in the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act used $1.2B in recovery act funding to create 300,000 jobs for unemployed youth. Here in Schenectady County, $392,457 was used under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 to enroll an additional 230 at-risk youth in the 2009 Schenectady County Summer Youth Employment Program and expand the program to more than 520 participants, each receiving critcal workforce training and life skills including resume writing, banking and budgeting, financing, and college exploration.
Click here for more information.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
CONGRESS PASSES SENATOR SCHUMER'S BIPARTISAN "HIRE NOW TAX CUT"
Yesterday, Senator Charles E. Schumer announced that his bipartisan “Hire Now Tax Cut” proposal to provide businesses that hire unemployed workers with a tax cut has passed Congress and will now go to the President’s desk for signature. The “Hire Now Tax Cut” is part of the HIRE Act that just passed Congress and will soon be signed by President Obama.
Schumer's bipartisan proposal was cosponsored by Senator Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) and provides a tax cut to businesses that hire a worker that has been without work for at least 60 days prior to employment. The businesses will avoid paying the employer’s share of Social Security taxes on that worker for the duration of 2010. The more a business pays a worker (up to the maximum Social Security wage of $106,800), and the longer a business has a worker on its payroll, the greater the tax benefit – so there is an incentive to hire people sooner, and pay them more. The benefits go immediately into a business’ cash flow – no waiting until 2011 to receive a tax credit.
“Passage of the “Hire Now Tax Cut” brings thousands of unemployed New Yorkers that much closer to finding a job,” Schumer said. “Both sides of the aisle have heard the call to focus on jobs. This proposal is not a panacea, but it will start the long process of putting people back to work.”
Schumer offered the following examples of savings that businesses would receive under this proposal:
· Hire a $35,000 worker in March, save $1,808.
· Hire an $80,000 worker in April, save $3,720.
· Hire a $70,000 worker in May, save $2,893.
Click here for more information.
Schumer's bipartisan proposal was cosponsored by Senator Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) and provides a tax cut to businesses that hire a worker that has been without work for at least 60 days prior to employment. The businesses will avoid paying the employer’s share of Social Security taxes on that worker for the duration of 2010. The more a business pays a worker (up to the maximum Social Security wage of $106,800), and the longer a business has a worker on its payroll, the greater the tax benefit – so there is an incentive to hire people sooner, and pay them more. The benefits go immediately into a business’ cash flow – no waiting until 2011 to receive a tax credit.
“Passage of the “Hire Now Tax Cut” brings thousands of unemployed New Yorkers that much closer to finding a job,” Schumer said. “Both sides of the aisle have heard the call to focus on jobs. This proposal is not a panacea, but it will start the long process of putting people back to work.”
Schumer offered the following examples of savings that businesses would receive under this proposal:
· Hire a $35,000 worker in March, save $1,808.
· Hire an $80,000 worker in April, save $3,720.
· Hire a $70,000 worker in May, save $2,893.
Click here for more information.
Monday, March 8, 2010
Decay and stagnation have given way to growth and renewal
Since the new Democratic Majority took leadership of the county Legislature, change for the better is happening in Schenectady County because Democrats at all levels of government in our county are working together. Even in these difficult economic times, the results have been dramatic. Already the new unified economic development team has delivered 3,300 new jobs, and $400 million in new private sector investment in our economy. Through hard work and vision, decay and stagnation have given way to growth and renewal.
A recent New York Times article about the changing perception of Schenectady among Union College students and officials shows more proof of the dramatic results that the new Democratic Majority has brought. Below are some quotes from the article:
"(Union College) Officials are trying to capitalize on the fact that downtown Schenectady, which had become a symbol of urban decay, has managed a marked turnaround in the past five years, with the $40 million renovation of its historic Proctors Theater and the opening of a six-screen movie theater, a handful of restaurants and a Hampton Inn. In addition, General Electric has brought hundreds of additional employees to Schenectady for its new renewable-energy headquarters."
"Around 2003, the city and Schenectady County began a commitment to rebuild the commercial base and improve facades along State Street and Broadway. In addition to G.E.’s renewable-energy headquarters, Schenectady attracted the Golub Corporation, the parent of the Price Chopper supermarket chain, which has just opened a new headquarters near campus with 800 employees. G.E. also plans to open a $100 million battery plant next year in a restored manufacturing building, with 350 positions. "
A recent New York Times article about the changing perception of Schenectady among Union College students and officials shows more proof of the dramatic results that the new Democratic Majority has brought. Below are some quotes from the article:
"(Union College) Officials are trying to capitalize on the fact that downtown Schenectady, which had become a symbol of urban decay, has managed a marked turnaround in the past five years, with the $40 million renovation of its historic Proctors Theater and the opening of a six-screen movie theater, a handful of restaurants and a Hampton Inn. In addition, General Electric has brought hundreds of additional employees to Schenectady for its new renewable-energy headquarters."
"Around 2003, the city and Schenectady County began a commitment to rebuild the commercial base and improve facades along State Street and Broadway. In addition to G.E.’s renewable-energy headquarters, Schenectady attracted the Golub Corporation, the parent of the Price Chopper supermarket chain, which has just opened a new headquarters near campus with 800 employees. G.E. also plans to open a $100 million battery plant next year in a restored manufacturing building, with 350 positions. "
Thursday, February 25, 2010
SENATOR SCHUMER: NEW BIPARTISAN PROPOSAL COULD EMPLOY THOUSANDS OF NOW UNEMPLOYED CAPITAL REGION WORKERS
Recently, Senator Charles E. Schumer met with local businesses and unemployed workers to discuss his new bipartisan “Hire Now Tax Cut” proposal to provide businesses that hire unemployed workers with a tax cut. Schumer has joined with Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) to offer a tax cut to businesses that hire a worker that had been without work for at least 60 days prior to employment. The businesses will avoid paying the employer’s share of Social Security taxes on that worker for the duration of 2010. The more a business pays a worker (up to the maximum Social Security wage of $106,800), and the longer a business has a worker on its payroll, the greater the tax benefit – so there is an incentive to hire people sooner, and pay them more. The benefits go immediately into a business’ cash flow – no waiting until 2011 to receive a tax credit.
“Congress must focus like a laser on job creation, and that’s what this proposal does,” said Schumer. “The plan is targeted, cost efficient for the taxpayer and highly effective for workers seeking employment. This bipartisan proposal will put people back to work right away and help create the only thing that will finally bring us out of this recession: Job growth.”
For more information, click here.
“Congress must focus like a laser on job creation, and that’s what this proposal does,” said Schumer. “The plan is targeted, cost efficient for the taxpayer and highly effective for workers seeking employment. This bipartisan proposal will put people back to work right away and help create the only thing that will finally bring us out of this recession: Job growth.”
For more information, click here.
Saturday, February 20, 2010
The American Reinvestment and Recovery Act
One year in, the evidence is clear -- and growing by the day -- that the Recovery Act is working to cushion the greatest economic crisis since the Great Depression while laying a new foundation for economic growth.
The New York Times yesterday wrote ,"Perhaps the best-known economic research firms are IHS Global Insight, Macroeconomic Advisers and Moody’s Economy.com. They all estimate that the bill has added 1.6 million to 1.8 million jobs so far and that its ultimate impact will be roughly 2.5 million jobs. The Congressional Budget Office, an independent agency, considers these estimates to be conservative."
Check out these charts from the NYT showing the change in the economy since the Recovery Act was passed.
The New York Times yesterday wrote ,"Perhaps the best-known economic research firms are IHS Global Insight, Macroeconomic Advisers and Moody’s Economy.com. They all estimate that the bill has added 1.6 million to 1.8 million jobs so far and that its ultimate impact will be roughly 2.5 million jobs. The Congressional Budget Office, an independent agency, considers these estimates to be conservative."
Check out these charts from the NYT showing the change in the economy since the Recovery Act was passed.
But beyond the numbers, the Recovery Act has funded projects in communities across the country that have led to real and tangible improvements in people's lives:
• In Englewood, Colorado, Eddie B. is at work as a police officer because of the Recovery Act. When he graduated from police academy last year, the average wait time for a job was between two and three years. But the Recovery Act allowed him to be hired almost immediately -- along with four of his friends from the academy. He said, "The President, with the Recovery Act, gave me the opportunity to serve my community and help the people I live with."
• Jeanne S. is a middle school teacher who works at a public school in Phoenix, Arizona. Last spring, she and other teachers were told that the school might not be able to afford to keep them on any longer. Yet money from the Recovery Act allowed her and other teachers to keep their jobs, and Jeanne says that they are grateful for the opportunity to keep teaching thanks to the Recovery Act.
Right here in Schenectady County, American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds are creating jobs. General Electric Global Research Center has received funds for important biomedical research and green energy research. Recovery funds are being used by YouthBuild Schenectady to create a green job training program for youth in Schenectady County. Stimulus funds are being used to construct a second track along the rail corridor between the Schenectady and Albany-Rensselaer train stations. Combined with other high speed rail investments, these investments will better the local economy and improve trip time for more than 56 weekly passenger trains and over 350 weekly cargo trains. Stimulus funds in Schenectady County helped improve access to health care, saved summer youth employment opportunies, and cleaned up our local environment. These are just a few of the local examples of how the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act has helped Schenectady County residents. ARRA also provided one of the largest tax cuts in American history - $232 billion - providing important relief to many Schenectady County residents in these difficult times.
The success of the Recovery Act is composed of millions of stories like these -- of folks getting to work who wouldn't otherwise be in their jobs, families able to buy their first home because of the homeowner's tax credit, and much more.
Democratic leadership at all levels is undoing the mess left by years of Republican deregulation, economic mismanagement and outright abuses of power. There is much more that needs to be done to rebuild our economy and provide relief to working families. Yet ironically reactionary elements are saying government created this crisis and are calling for government to do less as a solution in and of itself.
IF there is anything George Bush should have taught us it is that less is surely not more. We know doing less is what got us in trouble. The Republicans refused to regulate a securities industry that created derivatives and other sham instruments used to create fake paper wealth, the collapse of which threatend to topple the entire global finance sector. The Republicans refused to reign in the subprime mortgage scams that resulted in record foreclosures and a collapse in the housing market in some parts of the country. The Republicans refused to implement a rational energy policy -- which left our country more dependent on middle eastern oil and inevitable spikes in gasoline prices. The Republicans refused to tackle the health insurance problem resulting in 30 million uninsured and the highest health insurance premiums in the world for workers and businesses such that the high cost of healthcare is now one of the greatest obstacles to American competiiveness in the global marketplace.
It is time to do more. These are difficult times that require decisive leadership bold enough to meet the challenges of the moment. And once again only the Democratic party is prepared to deliver -- and is delivering.
Click on this link to view a video on the Recovery Act from Organizing for America - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jWmUnU7HS-I - or watch the video below.
• In Englewood, Colorado, Eddie B. is at work as a police officer because of the Recovery Act. When he graduated from police academy last year, the average wait time for a job was between two and three years. But the Recovery Act allowed him to be hired almost immediately -- along with four of his friends from the academy. He said, "The President, with the Recovery Act, gave me the opportunity to serve my community and help the people I live with."
• Jeanne S. is a middle school teacher who works at a public school in Phoenix, Arizona. Last spring, she and other teachers were told that the school might not be able to afford to keep them on any longer. Yet money from the Recovery Act allowed her and other teachers to keep their jobs, and Jeanne says that they are grateful for the opportunity to keep teaching thanks to the Recovery Act.
Right here in Schenectady County, American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds are creating jobs. General Electric Global Research Center has received funds for important biomedical research and green energy research. Recovery funds are being used by YouthBuild Schenectady to create a green job training program for youth in Schenectady County. Stimulus funds are being used to construct a second track along the rail corridor between the Schenectady and Albany-Rensselaer train stations. Combined with other high speed rail investments, these investments will better the local economy and improve trip time for more than 56 weekly passenger trains and over 350 weekly cargo trains. Stimulus funds in Schenectady County helped improve access to health care, saved summer youth employment opportunies, and cleaned up our local environment. These are just a few of the local examples of how the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act has helped Schenectady County residents. ARRA also provided one of the largest tax cuts in American history - $232 billion - providing important relief to many Schenectady County residents in these difficult times.
The success of the Recovery Act is composed of millions of stories like these -- of folks getting to work who wouldn't otherwise be in their jobs, families able to buy their first home because of the homeowner's tax credit, and much more.
Democratic leadership at all levels is undoing the mess left by years of Republican deregulation, economic mismanagement and outright abuses of power. There is much more that needs to be done to rebuild our economy and provide relief to working families. Yet ironically reactionary elements are saying government created this crisis and are calling for government to do less as a solution in and of itself.
IF there is anything George Bush should have taught us it is that less is surely not more. We know doing less is what got us in trouble. The Republicans refused to regulate a securities industry that created derivatives and other sham instruments used to create fake paper wealth, the collapse of which threatend to topple the entire global finance sector. The Republicans refused to reign in the subprime mortgage scams that resulted in record foreclosures and a collapse in the housing market in some parts of the country. The Republicans refused to implement a rational energy policy -- which left our country more dependent on middle eastern oil and inevitable spikes in gasoline prices. The Republicans refused to tackle the health insurance problem resulting in 30 million uninsured and the highest health insurance premiums in the world for workers and businesses such that the high cost of healthcare is now one of the greatest obstacles to American competiiveness in the global marketplace.
It is time to do more. These are difficult times that require decisive leadership bold enough to meet the challenges of the moment. And once again only the Democratic party is prepared to deliver -- and is delivering.
Click on this link to view a video on the Recovery Act from Organizing for America - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jWmUnU7HS-I - or watch the video below.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Union Graduate College Opens Its New Home in Downtown Schenectady
The results of the new economic development team put in place by the new Democratic Majority in 2004 continues to pay dividends. Just two years ago, the corner of Nott Terrace and Liberty Street in Schenectady was the site of an abandoned gas station. Today, it is the brand-new home of Union Graduate College, a three-story, 24,000 square foot building on a 1.5 acre campus, at the gateway of downtown Schenectady.
“I am very proud of the role our County Economic Development Team played in keeping Union Graduate College here in Schenectady County,” said Susan E. Savage, Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature. “We took a former brownfield and turned it into a green building that is now fertile ground for developing the future leaders of our community."
“I have always felt that Union Graduate College could play a key role in the ongoing redevelopment of Schenectady,” said U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer. “It was almost five years ago that the college approached me to support the construction of a permanent home. I am proud to have secured $500,000.00 for this project. Not only does it keep the Graduate College in the City of Schenectady, but it makes an immediate impact on Nott Terrace and the continuing rebirth of downtown.”
The $8.5 million Graduate Center was built to house Union Graduate College’s growing Master’s degree programs in management, bioethics, engineering and education. The Graduate College has seen enrollment jump 5.5% this year. The Graduate Center was also built to LEED standards, with features that reduce its energy consumption and carbon footprint.
"Higher education is at the very heart of economic development in New York State," said Chair Savage in a recent New York State Association of Counties publication article written by Dr. Laura Schweitzer, President of Union Graduate College. "We are very proud Union Graduate College has made its permanent home in the heart of our community. This provides opportunities for this generation and the next to learn and work right here in the orginal Tech Valley.”
Dr. Schweitzer further wrote that "In the more than a dozen years as a college adminstrator, I have seen the powerful difference it makes when colleges and local leaders work together. Private colleges like Union Graduate College are anchors in New York State's communities - but we cannot be islands. We must be part of the plan. In Schenectady County officials have played a hundred roles - both large and small - in helping bring our new campus to life. In turn, we are deeply committed to helping continue the successful renaissance already underway."
Watch the ribbon cutting ceremony below:
“I am very proud of the role our County Economic Development Team played in keeping Union Graduate College here in Schenectady County,” said Susan E. Savage, Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature. “We took a former brownfield and turned it into a green building that is now fertile ground for developing the future leaders of our community."
“I have always felt that Union Graduate College could play a key role in the ongoing redevelopment of Schenectady,” said U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer. “It was almost five years ago that the college approached me to support the construction of a permanent home. I am proud to have secured $500,000.00 for this project. Not only does it keep the Graduate College in the City of Schenectady, but it makes an immediate impact on Nott Terrace and the continuing rebirth of downtown.”
The $8.5 million Graduate Center was built to house Union Graduate College’s growing Master’s degree programs in management, bioethics, engineering and education. The Graduate College has seen enrollment jump 5.5% this year. The Graduate Center was also built to LEED standards, with features that reduce its energy consumption and carbon footprint.
"Higher education is at the very heart of economic development in New York State," said Chair Savage in a recent New York State Association of Counties publication article written by Dr. Laura Schweitzer, President of Union Graduate College. "We are very proud Union Graduate College has made its permanent home in the heart of our community. This provides opportunities for this generation and the next to learn and work right here in the orginal Tech Valley.”
Dr. Schweitzer further wrote that "In the more than a dozen years as a college adminstrator, I have seen the powerful difference it makes when colleges and local leaders work together. Private colleges like Union Graduate College are anchors in New York State's communities - but we cannot be islands. We must be part of the plan. In Schenectady County officials have played a hundred roles - both large and small - in helping bring our new campus to life. In turn, we are deeply committed to helping continue the successful renaissance already underway."
Watch the ribbon cutting ceremony below:
Monday, February 15, 2010
New York to receive federal funds for double tracking from Schenectady to Albany
Congressman Paul Tonko recently announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded more than $151 million in funding for high speed rail in upstate New York, which comes on the back of over $4.5 million in the FY 2010 Transportation Appropriations bill. This funding will include construction of a second track along the rail corridor between the Schenectady and Albany-Rensselaer train stations. Combined, these investments will better the local economy and improve trip time for more than 56 weekly passenger trains and over 350 weekly cargo trains.
"This will help our economic development efforts by improving rail service, reliability and creating future opportunities for high-speed rail service," said Susan E. Savage, Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature.
“These investments are welcomed news in the Capital Region” said Congressman Tonko. “By investing in double tracking between Schenectady and Albany we can help develop the economy of downtown Schenectady, the only city in the region with a downtown train station, and improve trip time not only for those in the region but for travel across Upstate New York. I want to thank the Upstate New York delegation, led by Chairwoman Louise Slaughter, for working hard to deliver this investment to help revitalize our Upstate economy.” Click here for Congressman Tonko's complete release.
“This is great news for New York,” Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said. “Building high-speed rail here will connect more commuters and businesses, create jobs immediately and help rebuild our economy for the long term. We’ve worked hard for a long time to bring high-speed rail to New York. This round of funding is just the first step in our efforts to secure what New York needs to achieve true high-speed rail connectivity. I will keep fighting to make sure New York gets more high speed rail funding in future rounds.”
"This will help our economic development efforts by improving rail service, reliability and creating future opportunities for high-speed rail service," said Susan E. Savage, Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature.
“These investments are welcomed news in the Capital Region” said Congressman Tonko. “By investing in double tracking between Schenectady and Albany we can help develop the economy of downtown Schenectady, the only city in the region with a downtown train station, and improve trip time not only for those in the region but for travel across Upstate New York. I want to thank the Upstate New York delegation, led by Chairwoman Louise Slaughter, for working hard to deliver this investment to help revitalize our Upstate economy.” Click here for Congressman Tonko's complete release.
“This is great news for New York,” Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said. “Building high-speed rail here will connect more commuters and businesses, create jobs immediately and help rebuild our economy for the long term. We’ve worked hard for a long time to bring high-speed rail to New York. This round of funding is just the first step in our efforts to secure what New York needs to achieve true high-speed rail connectivity. I will keep fighting to make sure New York gets more high speed rail funding in future rounds.”
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Congressman Tonko Announces Federal Job Training Funds for Schenectady
Congressman Paul Tonko recently announced the Municipal Housing Authority of the City of Schenectady will receive $55,533 from the Housing and Urban Development’s Family Self Sufficiency Program. These funds are awarded to public housing authorities to hire a program coordinator who will enable local residents to gain more access to training opportunities for jobs, job placement organizations as well as local employers.
“These investments will enable those who are unemployed, and many of whom have been for a long period, the opportunity to retrain and retool their skills to ensure they can get back to work and help get the economy moving again,” said Rep. Tonko. “These local hires will help locally unemployed people find work and put their skills back to work. We must continue to focus on rebuilding our economy, which is my top priority. Creating sound jobs on the road to recovery takes investments such as this to help bring down the unemployment rate and retrain the workforce of the future.”
For more information, click here.
“These investments will enable those who are unemployed, and many of whom have been for a long period, the opportunity to retrain and retool their skills to ensure they can get back to work and help get the economy moving again,” said Rep. Tonko. “These local hires will help locally unemployed people find work and put their skills back to work. We must continue to focus on rebuilding our economy, which is my top priority. Creating sound jobs on the road to recovery takes investments such as this to help bring down the unemployment rate and retrain the workforce of the future.”
For more information, click here.
Friday, February 12, 2010
Niskayuna-based GE Global Research receives stimulus grants for energy saving, next generation lighting projects
Congressman Paul Tonko recently annouced that GE Global Research in Niskayuna has been awarded two grants from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act totaling $5.77 million for high-efficiency solid-state lighting projects. Solid-state lighting (SSL), which uses light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) instead of standard incandescent bulbs, has the potential to be ten times more energy efficient than current sources.
“These smart investments that we are making today will soon pay off with more energy efficient lighting that will cut our energy use and ultimately our reliance on imported foreign oil,” said Rep. Tonko. “These funds will also position our country and American companies like GE as global leaders in the creation of this energy efficient technology, and potentially create new jobs due to the cutting edge research done right here in our community.”
The green economy is taking shape right here in Schenectady County thanks to the hardwork and leadership of Schenectady County Democrats.
For more information on these grants, click here.
“These smart investments that we are making today will soon pay off with more energy efficient lighting that will cut our energy use and ultimately our reliance on imported foreign oil,” said Rep. Tonko. “These funds will also position our country and American companies like GE as global leaders in the creation of this energy efficient technology, and potentially create new jobs due to the cutting edge research done right here in our community.”
The green economy is taking shape right here in Schenectady County thanks to the hardwork and leadership of Schenectady County Democrats.
For more information on these grants, click here.
Monday, February 8, 2010
GE Dedicates New Renewable Energy Global Headquarters in Schenectady County
The sucess of the unified economic development team's new approach continues to pay dividends. Just one of the areas of change has been the new positive relationship with GE. The Daily Gazette on February 22, 2009 quoted Jan Smith, spokeswoman for GE Energy, as saying "When the new group came in, they said we should have a climate for change. There has been an effort on [their part] to work with us and us with them." The article further stated "Smith credited the changed environment with GE's decision to locate 500 jobs related to solar and wind power generation." The establishment of the Renewable Energy Global Headquarters in Schenectady has spurred the creation of more than 650 new jobs locally, 150 more than originally anticipated and a year ahead of schedule.
Recently, Schenectady County Legislators joined with GE representatives and Federal, state and local officials to celebrate the official dedication of GE’s Renewable Energy Global Headquarters. The state-of-the-art, eco-friendly facility is a $45 million renovation of Building 53 on GE’s Schenectady campus.
“GE could have built this facility anywhere in the world and we are so happy they chose Schenectady County to be the hub of the company’s fast growing, green energy business,” said Susan E. Savage, Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature.
“This facility is an investment in the future of GE in Schenectady,” said Steve Bolze, president and CEO, GE Power & Water. “It will help ensure that New York continues to be a global leader in sustainable technology, as GE’s renewable energy business continues to support the growth of a green economy.”
Bolze thanked government and community officials for their support in the development of the new facility.
“The rebirth of Building 53 as our Renewable Energy Global Headquarters is an important symbol of the rapid growth and success of our renewable energy business, particularly in the wind sector,” said Victor Abate, vice president-renewable energy for GE Power & Water. “When we entered the wind energy industry in 2002, it was a $200 million business for us. Today, it has grown into a vibrant business of more than $6 billion.”
Check out the annoucement below:
Recently, Schenectady County Legislators joined with GE representatives and Federal, state and local officials to celebrate the official dedication of GE’s Renewable Energy Global Headquarters. The state-of-the-art, eco-friendly facility is a $45 million renovation of Building 53 on GE’s Schenectady campus.
“GE could have built this facility anywhere in the world and we are so happy they chose Schenectady County to be the hub of the company’s fast growing, green energy business,” said Susan E. Savage, Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature.
“This facility is an investment in the future of GE in Schenectady,” said Steve Bolze, president and CEO, GE Power & Water. “It will help ensure that New York continues to be a global leader in sustainable technology, as GE’s renewable energy business continues to support the growth of a green economy.”
Bolze thanked government and community officials for their support in the development of the new facility.
“The rebirth of Building 53 as our Renewable Energy Global Headquarters is an important symbol of the rapid growth and success of our renewable energy business, particularly in the wind sector,” said Victor Abate, vice president-renewable energy for GE Power & Water. “When we entered the wind energy industry in 2002, it was a $200 million business for us. Today, it has grown into a vibrant business of more than $6 billion.”
Check out the annoucement below:
Saturday, January 2, 2010
Schenectady County's Revitalization
Thanks to strong new Democratic Leadership, Schenectady County has seen a resurgence. Check out this story from Union College discussing the changing view among students of the city and surrounding areas.
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Schenectady County's Downtown is Resurgent
"Come to downtown Schenectady and you feel happy -- to see it now, you can see what people have accomplished," said Senator Charles Schumer during his recent visit. Schenectady County has seen a dramatic revitalization and while the downtown gets alot of the attention, throughout the county people can see the dramatic change that has taken place since Democratic Leadership implemented the unified economic development plan. Check out this CBS piece featuring Susan Savage, Chair of the County Legislature, talk about the economic development in the downtown.
Thursday, December 24, 2009
New Year's Eve Fireworks
End the year enjoying Schenectady County's revitalized downtown and watching fireworks on New Year's Eve.
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Another Economic Development Win for Schenectady County
The unified economic development plan put in place in 2004 continues to pay dividends even in this difficult national economic climiate. Schenectady County officials have announced that Dimension Fabricators will purchase the former Super Steel facility in Glenville, representating an addition $5 million investment by the company as they continue to expand in Schenectady County.
“Through the efforts of our economic development team we were able to quickly put this building back to use, enabling this fast growing company to remain in Schenectady County,” said Susan Savage, Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature. “I want to thank Dimension Fabricators for investing in Schenectady County and look forward to their continued expansion in our community.”
Watch the annoucement below.
“Through the efforts of our economic development team we were able to quickly put this building back to use, enabling this fast growing company to remain in Schenectady County,” said Susan Savage, Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature. “I want to thank Dimension Fabricators for investing in Schenectady County and look forward to their continued expansion in our community.”
Watch the annoucement below.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
"Wicked" Made Possible by Democratic Leadership
Check out this great letter to the editor published in the Daily Gazette on December 20.
******************
Countywide cooperation paved way for ‘Wicked’
"Wicked" coming to Proctors for its month-long run is a huge win for Schenectady County. Like the visit by "Phantom" in 2006, which the Chamber of Schenectady estimated brought in over $10 million to local businesses, downtown merchants are sure to be filled during this holiday season.
Considering the national economy, we need to pause and remember what made this economic renaissance possible. In 2004, Democrats on the Schenectady County Legislature, led by [Chairwoman] Susan Savage, brought in Ray Gillen, a well-known and respected economic development expert, and set out a new plan for countywide economic development.
Proctors became the centerpiece of a rebuilt downtown, with Metroplex investing $10 million, and the Schenectady County Legislature kicking off the fund-raising drive with a grant of $1 million and capping it with a $450,000 grant, along with a 15-year, $200,000-per-year agreement to sustain the centerpiece. It was this support and the theater expansion that made shows like "Phantom" and "Wicked" possible.
The new plan has paid major dividends. From the new Clinton Square, Hampton Inn, and Aperitivo [Bistro] to a rejuvenated Jay Street and Parker Inn, what was a struggling downtown is now the thriving heart of a resurgent county.
While the current economic climate is difficult, we know we have leadership that can weather the economic storms to come because they have a proven track record of doing it before.
Steve Smith
Glenville
******************
Countywide cooperation paved way for ‘Wicked’
"Wicked" coming to Proctors for its month-long run is a huge win for Schenectady County. Like the visit by "Phantom" in 2006, which the Chamber of Schenectady estimated brought in over $10 million to local businesses, downtown merchants are sure to be filled during this holiday season.
Considering the national economy, we need to pause and remember what made this economic renaissance possible. In 2004, Democrats on the Schenectady County Legislature, led by [Chairwoman] Susan Savage, brought in Ray Gillen, a well-known and respected economic development expert, and set out a new plan for countywide economic development.
Proctors became the centerpiece of a rebuilt downtown, with Metroplex investing $10 million, and the Schenectady County Legislature kicking off the fund-raising drive with a grant of $1 million and capping it with a $450,000 grant, along with a 15-year, $200,000-per-year agreement to sustain the centerpiece. It was this support and the theater expansion that made shows like "Phantom" and "Wicked" possible.
The new plan has paid major dividends. From the new Clinton Square, Hampton Inn, and Aperitivo [Bistro] to a rejuvenated Jay Street and Parker Inn, what was a struggling downtown is now the thriving heart of a resurgent county.
While the current economic climate is difficult, we know we have leadership that can weather the economic storms to come because they have a proven track record of doing it before.
Steve Smith
Glenville
Friday, December 18, 2009
Big Deal for GE is a Big Win for Schenectady County
In 2004, the new Democratic majority on the County Legisalture set out to change economic development in Schenectady County. This effort resulted in the unified economic development team and changes to the tone of the County's efforts. Now Schenectady County continues to see the major positive results.
Just one of the areas of change has been the new positive relationship with GE. The Daily Gazette on February 22, 2009 quoted Jan Smith, spokeswoman for GE Energy, as saying "When the new group came in, they said we should have a climate for change. There has been an effort on [their part] to work with us and us with them." The article further stated "Smith credited the changed environment with GE's decision to locate 500 jobs related to solar and wind power generation."
Now that investment continues to pay dividends as GE has announced it has received a $1.4 billion contract to produce wind turbines. Project management and service will take place right here in Schenectady County. Read more coverage of this deal here.
Just one of the areas of change has been the new positive relationship with GE. The Daily Gazette on February 22, 2009 quoted Jan Smith, spokeswoman for GE Energy, as saying "When the new group came in, they said we should have a climate for change. There has been an effort on [their part] to work with us and us with them." The article further stated "Smith credited the changed environment with GE's decision to locate 500 jobs related to solar and wind power generation."
Now that investment continues to pay dividends as GE has announced it has received a $1.4 billion contract to produce wind turbines. Project management and service will take place right here in Schenectady County. Read more coverage of this deal here.
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