Ritchie: Budget Delivers Funding for Local Colleges

Nearly $13 Million Allocated for Upgrades at Central and Northern New York Colleges 

State Senator Patty Ritchie has announced the new State Budget will include nearly $13 million to help local colleges improve the learning experience for students by making upgrades to their campuses. 

Included in the spending plan is $6.65 million for SUNY Oswego, $1.95 million for SUNY Canton and $4.35 million for Jefferson Community College.  $850,000 in funding allocated for Jefferson Community College will go towards renovating college’s Melvil Dewey Library Building.

“The colleges of our region are hubs of our community, serving as centers of learning and starting points for so many bright minds as they begin their careers,” said Senator Ritchie.

“Not only do they provide students with the tools necessary to be successful, they’re also engines of economic growth for our region; generating employment opportunities, spurring new businesses and attracting new people to our area.  I’m pleased to see funding for these colleges in the new State Budget, which will help to both grow and enhance their campuses.”

Overall, the budget provides a $20 million boost in state aid for community colleges.  The new state spending plan also includes measures—like a $45 million increase in funding for the New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP)—to help make college more affordable  for thousands of middle-class New Yorkers.

For more information on the new State Budget, please visit Senator Ritchie’s website at www.ritchie.nysenate.gov.