Senator Ritchie's Community Spotlight: Supporting Our Shoreline Businesss

There is nothing like summer in Central and Northern New York and we are so lucky to have so many unique spots, State Parks, businesses and other places to visit right in our backyard. With the season just around the corner, I wanted to take a moment to remind people that despite recent flooding along the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario, many places are still open for business and need our support more than ever. 

Just last week, I had the opportunity to visit several communities dealing with high water and stop into several local businesses.  Despite the conditions, residents are positive and businesses are preparing for what they hope will be another busy summer season.  Many places are making changes to adapt to high water—like in Alexandria Bay, where floating docks have been installed to help welcome boaters to the village. Many of our region’s shoreline communities depend primarily on tourism to survive, making it extra important to support them and help get the word out that they are open for the season.

In addition, I also wanted to take an opportunity to share vital information about where to go for help if you are experiencing flooding.  Across our region, “Mobile Command Centers” are being set up to provide residents and businesses with assistance to help address erosion, offer technical guidance, provide on-site emergency permitting to residents and offer insurance help. To find a schedule of Mobile Command Centers, visit my website at www.ritchie.nysenate.gov.  If you are dealing with flooding related issues and cannot visit a Mobile Command Center, I encourage you to reach out to the state’s Flood Assistance Hotline at 1-866-244-3839.

I am also doing my part to help those struggling with high water through a new measure that was just introduced in the Senate, which I cosponsor.  Senate bill 6423 would create the “Great Lakes Flood Recovery Grant Program,” which would make $55 million in grants available to property owners, businesses, not-for-profit corporations, municipalities, and counties affected by high water levels.

As our region continues to deal with flooding, I hope you will take steps to stay safe, as well as take the time to show your support for local businesses that are still open, but in many cases missing their loyal customers.