Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush (R,C,I-Black River) today praised the North Country Regional Economic Development Council (NCREDC) for its transformational vision of economic rebirth throughout the seven-county region. The NCREDC’s “Transformational” plan was identified as a “Best Plan” and was awarded $103.2 million.

“This is outstanding news for the North Country,” said Blankenbush. “Any investment in the North Country will have a tremendous impact on this region, but this kind of capital will truly transform our economy, keeping it economically prosperous and competitive. I’d like to thank the North Country Regional Economic Development Council for all its hard work and the leadership that helped identify a cohesive and unique vision for our region’s best assets.”

Blankenbush commended the NCREDC for its ability to unite the vision for the vast and widespread economic region, tapping into its current strengths. NCREDC took cues on what is currently working and successful in the North Country, emphasizing and revamping agriculture, tourism and small-business enterprise.

Blankenbush noted that the plan takes into account the economic importance of Fort Drum on the greater Watertown area. Defense has played a large part in the area’s economy, and the NCREDC’s plan integrates a $4 million affordable rental housing plan into the proposal. Other local investment in Blankenbush’s district included $900,000 that is being diverted to the Village of Gouverneur to improve water delivery at the Kinney Drugs Distribution warehouse, a large employer in the region.

The North Country, despite being one of the least-populated regions in the state, has many benefits and assets. With the ever-increasing importance of a revenue-generating export strategy for the state, the North Country’s close proximity to Canada and easy access to the St. Lawrence Seaway will be critical.