CWC Grants Will Help Rebuild Main Streets

ONEONTA, 09/13/11 – State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I-Oneonta) today commended the Catskill Watershed Corporation (CWC) for approving a special grant program for small businesses devastated by recent storms and flooding.

“As I toured communities ravaged by Tropical Storms Irene and Lee and met with business owners who have lost their livelihoods, each indicated the desire to rebuild but many lacked the means,” said Senator Seward.  “One of my first calls was to the Catskill Watershed Corporation seeking their assistance and I am pleased to learn of their swift and generous response.”

The Catskill Watershed Corporation has authorized $5 million for the Catskill Fund for the Future’s 2011 Flood Recovery Grant Program.  Local awards include:
 Delaware County -  $2,573,500;
 Greene County -  $931,500;
 Schoharie County -  $220,500.

The CWC grants are available to for-profit-businesses at a maximum amount of $30,000.

“Many business owners are working on a razor thin margin and are unable to take on new debt.  This quick infusion of cash will help breathe life into our Main Streets and pave the path for reopenings rather than permanent closures.

“The resources to rebuild are coming together piece by piece.  FEMA aid to assist individuals, business and municipalities, the governor’s announcement of $15 million to help farmers which will support small businesses as well, and my own call for additional state aid to cover the local share of public infrastructure repairs are all important building blocks to successfully restore our communities.  More elements are needed and I will continue to work with federal, state and local partners to  make our communities whole once again,” Seward concluded.

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