Statement From Senator Patty Ritchie on Future of FitzPatrick Nuclear Plant

Today, I couldn’t be more pleased, or more proud, that our efforts to save the James A. FitzPatrick Nuclear Power Plant have paid off. With today’s news that Exelon Generation will purchase FitzPatrick from Entergy Corporation, the hundreds of hardworking men and women employed by the plant and their families, as well as our entire region, can breathe a sigh of relief.

I would like to thank Governor Cuomo for his efforts to keep this facility open, and protect the much-needed jobs and economic benefits it supports. Since day one, he has understood how devastating the closure of FitzPatrick would be—and I am so grateful for his willingness to listen, and for his leadership. In addition, I would also like to express my thanks to both Exelon and Entergy, who stayed at the table and worked out a solution that safeguards these vitally important jobs, as well as the economic and environmental benefits the plant is responsible for.

I would also like to thank the many men and women who have been tireless supporters of the plant’s continued operation—including its dedicated employees, who throughout this trying process have continued to run the plant safely and efficiently, labor leaders, community members and countless others who have understood that FitzPatrick’s continued operation isn’t just vital to Central New York, it’s important to our entire state. 

Simply put, today is a great day for Oswego County. FitzPatrick has been an vital part of Central New York for decades—and I am excited that it will remain that way for many years to come.

(Attn. photo editors: Senator Ritchie is pictured in the attached photo at Tuesday’s announcement with FitzPatrick employees Tom Bullock and Tony Martin)