“Today’s announcement that Central New York has been selected to receive $500 million through the Upstate Revitalization Initiative represents an unprecedented opportunity for our region. The Central New York Regional Economic Development Council laid out a robust economic plan that supports core industries like manufacturing and agriculture, while enabling our community to become a global leader in new, innovative fields like unmanned aerial systems.

“This funding will invest in the future of our local businesses by making it easier for them to bring their products to international markets through the establishment of an inland port that utilizes rail travel, rather than trucks. The plan also includes projects that will support veterans, consolidate and modernize government, and create new opportunities for the thousands of Central New York residents that currently live at or near the poverty line.

“In recent years, we’ve made considerable progress in getting our economy back on track, but more work needed to be done. An investment of this magnitude will strengthen our community, not just today but for many years to come.”