Revitalizing our economy goes beyond just attracting businesses. Today, economic development professionals understand the key factors that influence where businesses choose to thrive. It’s not just about profit margins; they look at the workforce, community liveliness, top-notch schools, healthcare facilities, and supportive services that create a thriving business ecosystem.
Steuben County IDA understands the importance of community development and the impact it has on attracting new business investment. In 2018, together with Steuben County, the organization hired a Community Infrastructure Specialist. This expert has been working tirelessly to help municipalities with their water and sewer needs, providing technical expertise across the county.
Exciting projects are already driving community and economic growth, attracting private investments:
Downtown Hammondsport Sewer Project: A $2.25 million venture to bring a public sewer system to Hammondsport’s Village Square. The project received significant support, $1.45 million, from state and federal grants, along with $800,000 in long-term financing. Once completed, it will be a game-changer for local businesses. Currently, several of the downtown businesses are operating under consent orders from the Department of Health due to inadequately sized septic systems, while other property owners are limited in their ability to expand. The sewer project will alleviate health concerns while allowing for additional development to occur in the downtown business district.
Bath Sewer Project: A strategic move to connect businesses along the Route 415 corridor from Lake Salubria to I-86 Exit 39. This $9.3 million project is not only creating new development areas but also enhancing water quality for the residents around Lake Salubria which has been deemed susceptible to rare harmful algae blooms due to high levels of nutrients in the lake.
Prattsburgh Sewer Project: In its early stages, this project aims to establish a public sewer system for the business community around Main Street. Already, it’s attracting private investments, and with funding support from various sources, it promises to be a catalyst for further growth. The project has helped leverage private investments downtown with a $1.3 million rehabilitation effort on three Main Street properties and additional growth at Empire Telephone’s corporate headquarters.
But that’s not all! The IDA is also involved in projects that promise to transform industrial landscapes:
Shawmut Industrial Park in Hornell: The IDA partnered with the City of Hornell IDA to secure $3.4 million in federal funding to improve infrastructure for Alstom’s pioneering rail car body manufacturing facility, creating jobs and boosting the area’s prospects. The new facility is the first of its kind in North America and supports Alstom’s growth in Hornell while creating 250 jobs.
Bath Rail Infrastructure: With $1.08 million in funding, improvements are underway to facilitate LP Building Solutions’ new manufacturing facility. As train traffic returns to this section of track for the first time since 1996, the investments will provide safer and more efficient rail access and enhance public safety and economic opportunities.
These community-driven projects not only fuel existing business growth but also open doors to a brighter future for everyone in Steuben County.