Congresswoman Claudia Tenney has introduced new legislation aimed at making Ontario County eligible for federal funding through the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC), a move local leaders say could bring significant economic benefits to the region.
The NBRC is a federal-state partnership created by Congress to address economic and infrastructure challenges in communities along the northern U.S. border, including parts of New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. While many nearby counties already qualify for the program, Ontario County has remained excluded, preventing access to critical funding for job creation, business development, and infrastructure improvements.
“Ontario County is a vital part of our region’s economy,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “Expanding NBRC eligibility to include Ontario County will unlock new opportunities for investment, infrastructure, and innovation. This legislation ensures the county has access to the same tools already available to neighboring areas to support long-term economic vitality.”
Counties in the NBRC service area include Cayuga, Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Fulton, Genesee, Greene, Hamilton, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Livingston, Madison, Montgomery, Niagara, Oneida, Orleans, Oswego, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, Schoharie, Seneca, St. Lawrence, Sullivan, Washington, Warren, Wayne, Wyoming, and Yates.
Local officials and business leaders have voiced strong support for the bill.
“Including Ontario County in the Northern Border Regional Commission will be a great benefit to our residents, farms, and businesses,” said Jared Simpson, Chair of the Ontario County Board of Supervisors. “Thanks to Congresswoman Tenney for bringing this bill forward.”
Farmington Town Supervisor Peter Ingalsbe also praised the proposal, noting the potential for increased investment in housing, infrastructure, and workforce development. “The Town of Farmington needs opportunities that encourage a highly productive workforce, new housing, and improved water and sewer infrastructure,” he said.
Tracey Dello Stritto, President and CEO of the Ontario County Chamber of Commerce, added that NBRC inclusion would strengthen the county’s ability to compete for transformative federal investments.
“Ontario County is a fast-growing, economically diverse region,” Dello Stritto said. “This designation would support infrastructure upgrades and business innovation, creating lasting opportunities across our communities.”
The bill now moves to Congress for consideration.
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