Governor George E. Pataki Tuesday announced Environmental Protection Fund (EPF) grants totaling $1,438,725 for 11 open space, recreation, preservation, and waterfront revitalization projects in Monroe, Genesee, Ontario, and Wayne Counties. The EPF awards include a grant for the Village of LeRoy in Genesee County equaling $350,000.

The Village of LeRoy is working to create a waterfront promenade along Oatka Creek, but in order to do so, significant shoreline stabilization must be completed. The project will serve to protect the long-term viability of the shoreline, while providing a community resource for generations to enjoy.

“The waterfront project in LeRoy is an important part of this region’s future,” said Hawley. “We have an abundance of beautiful natural resources in our area and this grant will serve to strengthen a vital resource for future tourism and recreation.”

“By investing in our natural resources we open the door for economic growth through tourism dollars and small business ventures,” added Hawley. “LeRoy’s easy access from the Thruway and I-490 makes it an easy tourist destination for travelers.”

“LeRoy’s beautiful downtown and its history as being the founding place of Jell-O makes it a very unique community and an important one for New York state,” Hawley said. “I am pleased that the Genesee region has been awarded theses grants as they will go a long way towards enhancing our already vibrant communities for the future.”