Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush (R,C,I-Black River) is pleased to announce that today the North Country and Mohawk Valley Regional Economic Development Councils were awarded $123 million to be invested throughout the region.

“I am so pleased by the successful efforts of the people on our North Country and Mohawk Valley Regional Economic Development Councils in this year’s round of Economic Development Awards and applaud them for their focus on infrastructure, agriculture, bio- and hi-tech jobs, workforce development, tourism and community renewal,” said Blankenbush. “The $123 million worth of investments from our state will help our region build and develop our unique vision for a vibrant and healthy economy. I look forward to seeing the positive impact throughout the region.”

The North Country Regional Economic Development Council was awarded $63.4 million. Emphasized in the council’s plan was the North Country Redevelopment Fund which would improve infrastructure throughout Northern New York.

The Mohawk Valley Regional Economic Development Council was awarded $59.6 million. Part of the funds will be used for workforce development to help prepare New Yorkers for the jobs of this economy.

This is the fourth year that Regional Economic Development Awards have been distributed. In 2014, more than $709 million will be invested statewide.