url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at
https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-announces-major-25-million-fed-investment-in-south-brooklyn-marine-terminal-for-development-of-wind-turbine-assembly-center-35th-st-pier-improvements-bring-nyc-one-step-closer-to-being-offshore-wind-supply-chain-hub-and-are-win-for-community-local-jobs-environment_nys-manufacturing,SCHUMER ANNOUNCES MAJOR $25 MILLION FED INVESTMENT IN SOUTH BROOKLYN MARINE TERMINAL FOR DEVELOPMENT OF WIND TURBINE ASSEMBLY CENTER; 35TH ST. PIER IMPROVEMENTS BRING NYC ONE STEP CLOSER TO BEING...,2021-12-23,2021,2021-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Schumer, Public Advocate Jumaane Williams & Enviro Justice Orgs Previously Pushed Investment In New Hub At South Brooklyn Marine Terminal

Community Protection Act (CLCPA), Which Schumer Backed, Requires 70% of NY’s Electricity Come From Renewable Resources By 2030, Driving Demand For Offshore Wind

Schumer: The Dawn Of Robust Renewable Energy Production In NYC Will Happen At Sunset Park Terminal In A Frontline Community

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer today announced that – following his direct advocacy multiple times to USDOT Secretary Pete Buttigieg – South Brooklyn Marine Terminal (SBMT) 35th Street Pier Expansion Project was awarded nearly $25 million through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MARAD) Port Infrastructure Development Grant program.

Schumer previously stood with Public Advocate Jumaane Williams and environmental justice leaders in Sunset Park, Brooklyn to push for a multi-million dollar investment to upgrade SBMT’s port infrastructure and to include SBMT as a key port for New York’s strategy to support offshore wind development. Schumer also made direct calls to Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg to urge approval of this federal funding for the South Brooklyn Marine Terminal. Schumer said infrastructure improvements to the 35th Street Pier are needed to make South Brooklyn Marine Terminal a regional hub in offshore wind construction. Upgrades to the port will result in 344 jobs and the offshore wind activity is estimated to create 3,274 full-time jobs.

“I am proud we secured this massive $25 million federal investment to help the South Brooklyn Marine Terminal reach new heights, boost the local economy, and blow a gust of new life into our fight against climate change,” said Senator Schumer. “This project is a true win-win-win that will create hundreds of good-paying union jobs, including for residents of this frontline Brooklyn community, boost New York’s clean-energy manufacturing sector, all while combatting climate change in big, bold ways. Brooklyn has the wind at its back with this announcement, and the future looks very bright.”

“With this fed investment, Sunset Park Terminal can positon New York State to manufacture offshore wind technology while leading the way in clean energy deployment. This site is primed to be up and running quickly with investments like this one, providing New York a critical foothold in the offshore wind supply chain and its tremendous opportunities for new jobs. This also helps the state, too, because seventy-percent of New York’s electricity has to come from renewable resources by 2030 as part of the CLCPA I helped push,” Schumer said.

The local wind turbine assembly center would generate more than 1,500 megawatts of clean energy here in the city, positioning New York to play a significant role in the offshore wind supply chain, which will create thousands of jobs across the state.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-gillibrand-announce-over-75-million-in-federal-funding-to-support-watertowns-samaritan-medical-center-and-loretto-health-in-syracuse-covid-response,"SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND ANNOUNCE OVER $7.5 MILLION IN FEDERAL FUNDING TO SUPPORT WATERTOWN’S SAMARITAN MEDICAL CENTER & LORETTO HEALTH IN SYRACUSE COVID RESPONSE",2021-12-23,2021,2021-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Hospitals, Long-Term Care Facilities & Health Centers Heroically Responded To COVID Outbreak, Ripping Holes In Their Budgets To Obtain PPE, Cleaning/Disinfecting Facilities, Testing, Tracing, And More

Senators Say FEMA Funding – At A 100% Federal Cost Share – Will Reimburse Samaritan Medical Center & Loretto For Costs Related to Pandemic Response

Schumer, Gillibrand: Federal Funding Will Help Keep Up The Fight Against COVID-19

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $4,512,600 for the Loretto Health & Rehabilitation and $3,035,960 for the Samaritan Medical Center from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to cover costs associated with emergency protective measures taken for their COVID responses. The funds reimburse each for expenses related to providing COVID-19 laboratory testing and testing supplies, used to test their employees ensuring that individuals did not spread the virus to staff, patients, or the local community as they provided direct care and response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This funding is provided at a 100% federal cost share, which Schumer fought hard to include for NY since the pandemic began.

“Samaritan Medical Center in Watertown, Loretto in Syracuse, and so many other entities throughout New York heroically stepped up by increasing spending, while experiencing significant revenue loss, and working ceaselessly to help New York beat back the virus. I am proud to deliver this vital federal support to help these essential medical facilities recover and continue to keep our communities safe,” said Senator Schumer. “Upstate New York and its hospitals have been amongst the hardest hit in the nation, and with this funding, the continuing frontline fight being waged by our health care system and its incredible workforce will receive the dollars they need, and so very much deserve, to keep saving lives.”

“Health care providers have lost billions of dollars during the pandemic due to spiking costs and slashed revenues,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This federal support will help ensure that Samaritan Medical Center and Loretto can maintain staffing levels, provide PPE, and continue to keep our Watertown and Syracuse communities safe as we encounter and fight new variants of COVID-19. I’ll keep working to help New York medical facilities offset operating costs so that they can continue to provide quality care to every New Yorker.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-with-holiday-travel-in-full-swing-and-covid-19-cases-surging-in-upstate-ny-senator-calls-fema-top-brass-directly-to-urge-them-to-immediately-deploy-200-new-mobile-covid-testing-sites-in-new-york-to-stop-the-spread-and-keep-our-communities-safe,"SCHUMER: WITH HOLIDAY TRAVEL IN FULL SWING AND COVID-19 CASES SURGING IN UPSTATE NY, SENATOR CALLS FEMA TOP BRASS DIRECTLY TO URGE THEM TO IMMEDIATELY DEPLOY 200 NEW MOBILE COVID TESTING SITES IN NEW...",2021-12-23,2021,2021-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"With Omicron Now On-The-Move Across Upstate, Schumer Says Expanding Access To Testing ASAP Is Critical Key To Keeping Variant Under Control

Senator Wants FEMA Mobile Testing Sites To Launch In Struggling Upstate Communities That Can’t Keep Up With Rising Cases

Schumer: Winter + Variants = Perfect Storm For Surging Cases; Feds Must Get Upstate NY The Support It Needs On The Frontlines Of Latest COVID Wave

With COVID’s Omicron variant spreading and Upstate New York overwhelmed by the latest surge, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer launched a major push to get the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to expand testing capacity and support for Upstate communities. Schumer made a personal call to FEMA Assistant Administrator Keith Turi and Acting FEMA Region 2 Administrator Chad Gorman to urge them to deploy 200 mobile testing sites in New York, 100 across New York State and an additional 100 in New York City. Schumer said that expanding access to testing is key to stopping the spread of COVID-19, especially as we enter the peak of holiday travel and the heart of the harsh winter months.

“Upstate New York is seeing record high COVID cases, and with variants like Omicron already here, we must stop the spread in its tracks and that means testing testing testing. That is why I am calling on FEMA to immediately deploy mobile testing sites across Upstate New York, to give struggling communities the support they need to keep their residents safe,” said Senator Schumer. “Especially as people travel over the winter holidays, easy access to testing is critical to ensure the safety of themselves and loved ones. FEMA must provide Upstate communities the support they need to protect public health and to stay ahead of this variant into the winter.”

New York State yesterday saw a record over 28,000 new coronavirus infections over a 24-hour period, signifying a significant increase in case counts from just a week ago.

Schumer’s request comes on the heels of his successful push for the federal government to provide free at-home tests to New York community health centers & mobile sites. President Biden announced earlier this week that the federal government would deliver 500 million free at-home rapid testing starting in January. Schumer said that these at home testing kits in tandem with 200 mobile testing sites in the communities that need them most is vital to protecting the health of New Yorkers.

“We now have the testing infrastructure and tools we didn’t have early on in the pandemic,” said Schumer. “It’s one of the keys to stop this surge and keep recovery going.”

According to the World Health Organization, the most effective steps individuals can take to reduce the spread of the COVID-19 virus is to keep a physical distance of at least 6-feet; wear a well-fitting mask; open windows to improve ventilation; avoid poorly ventilated or crowded spaces; keep hands clean; cough or sneeze into a bent elbow or tissue; and get vaccinated.

A copy of Senator Schumer’s original letter to FEMA appears below:

Dear Administrator Criswell:

I write today to ask for the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) assistance as we continue to fight the COVID-19 pandemic and the recent increase in cases due to the Omicron variant. The spike in cases has brought upon an increased demand for testing that is sure to strain the already robust testing infrastructure in New York City. In addition to supporting the City of New York’s request for an increased supply of at-home test kits, I ask that FEMA authorize the opening of 100 mobile test sites in New York City, and 100 additional mobile test sites across the rest of the state, including in Long Island.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, FEMA has played a central role in New York City’s fight against COVID-19. While I am grateful for these efforts and for the work of FEMA staffers, I ask that FEMA continue this partnership and build on its efforts as cases increase due to the Omicron variant. On December 21, 2021 New York City recorded its highest 7-day daily average of cases at nearly 9,500 cases. As reports of daily cases and hospitalizations continue to trend upward, it is vital that FEMA provide the City with the necessary resources to help slow this spread. With more testing capabilities in the form of at-home kits and testing sites, the City can better gauge the trends of this variant and provide more accurate guidance and information to residents.

Thank you again for your leadership and assistance over the past year as New York and the nation continue battling COVID-19. FEMA has been an invaluable partner in combatting this pandemic and I ask that as the Omicron variant spreads rapidly you continue this partnership and swiftly provide New York City the increased at-home testing kits requested in their letter to the Administration and authorize the opening of 100 testing sites across the City and 100 additional sites across the State.

I appreciate your attention to this important matter and look forward to your response. Please do not hesitate to reach out to my office with any questions

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/following-schumers-visit-and-direct-advocacy-wyoming-county-community-hospital-awarded-over-18-million-to-combat-recent-surge-of-covid-19-cover-rising-costs-and-keep-the-western-ny-community-safe-,"FOLLOWING SCHUMER’S VISIT AND DIRECT ADVOCACY, WYOMING COUNTY COMMUNITY HOSPITAL AWARDED OVER $1.8 MILLION TO COMBAT RECENT SURGE OF COVID-19, COVER RISING COSTS, AND KEEP THE WESTERN NY COMMUNITY...",2021-12-21,2021,2021-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Schumer Visited Wyoming County To Call On Feds To Reevaluate WNY Growing COVID Crisis & Get $$ Out Quickly To Where It’s Most Needed

Now, After Schumer’s Push, Wyoming County Community Hospital Has Received Over $1.8M In Pandemic Relief To Help Just In Time For The Harsh Winter Months

Schumer To Wyoming County: Help Is On The Way!

Following his visit to push for struggling Western New York hospitals to get the help they need, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer today announced the federal government has heeded his call and that Wyoming County Community Hospital has received $1,836,381 from the next round of the Provider Relief Fund (PRF) created by the CARES Act. Earlier this month Wyoming County declared a state of emergency in an effort to fight back against a rise in COVID-19 cases and variants like Omicron. Schumer said that this new funding will help Wyoming County Community Hospital combat the spread of COVID-19, cover rising costs, and ensure they have the resources to keep the community safe.

“Western New York hospitals are on the frontlines battling the many variants of COVID, I saw firsthand the tremendous need for assistance in my visit to Wyoming County last week and promised I would fight to get this money out quickly. Now, I am proud to deliver over $1.8 million in federal assistance for the Wyoming County Community Hospital to help them continue their essential work to keep our community safe,” said Senator Schumer. “As majority leader, I am proud to have championed multiple COVID-19 relief bills including the American Rescue Plan which provided these pandemic relief funds and I will continue to fight to ensure our hospitals and communities have all the help they need to stop the spread and meet the rising demand as we enter the winter months.”

Joseph McTernan, CEO of the Wyoming County Community Health System said, “We are extremely grateful to Senator Schumer for his advocacy in helping secure this funding for WCCH. With COVID infection rates again spiking in our community, we need all hands on deck to both care for the increasing number of patients being admitted for care while addressing the burden of increased costs required to provide this care. We appreciate Senator Schumer’s support for significantly impacted hospitals like WCCH to access this critical relief funding as we continue to navigate the pandemic and serve the community.”

Senator Schumer has delivered over $13.5 billion in grant funding to NY hospitals and providers through the Provider Relief Fund alone with billions more still awaiting to be disbursed. In addition, the Senator has secured tens of billions of dollars in much-needed relief including through various legislation and programs that delivered low-cost loans to providers, staved off potentially disastrous federal cuts to Medicare payments and increased payments to the New York Medicaid program that have helped NYS from instituting drastic cuts in provider reimbursements and consumer benefits.

In the April 2020 CARES Act, Schumer led the charge in Congress to create the Provider Relief Fund (PRF) - managed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) - with to provide funding to healthcare providers and hospitals caring for patients with COVID-19 and who suffered high expenses and lost revenues caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Although initially funded at $100 billion, Schumer led the charge in Congress further to successfully add an additional $86.5 billion to the Provider Relief Fund (PRF) throughout the last year through the Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enactment Act, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 and the American Rescue Plan.

A copy of Schumer’s original letter to HHS appears below:

Dear Secretary Becerra,

I write to request that the Department of Health and Humans Services (HHS) take into consideration the uptick in COVID-19 cases in certain areas of the country such as Western New York and the Finger Lakes Region when calculating the payments to providers that will be made in the upcoming General Distribution from the Provider Relief Fund (PRF). Hospitals and providers in this area, such as Wyoming County Community Hospital, are working day and night to care for patients amid intense financial pressures and need this funding in order to deal with the increase in COVID-19 cases that are crowding their hospital beds. I also ask that these funds be made swiftly; New York providers – especially those in Upstate New York – cannot be made to wait for this direly needed relief.

As you well know, New York has suffered huge losses during the course of this pandemic. While a robust vaccination and testing program has kept the state from reliving the worst of the pandemic’s early days, parts of the state continue to experience high levels of coronavirus caseloads. As of December 10th, 2021, the three counties in New York with the highest daily average number COVID-19 cases per 100,000 are all found in Western New York: Orleans (103), Wyoming (103), Genesee (100). The caseloads in these counties and other areas of New York have increased to such a high level, that 32 hospitals across the state report having 10% or less of available bed capacity open to admit new patients. Due to these critical conditions, New York State has mandated that these hospitals suspend elective procedures until bed capacity improves. The combination of high costs associated with treating COVID-19 patients and the loss of high-revenue-producing elective procedures is damaging the financial health of hospitals such as Wyoming County Community Hospital and highlighted the need for more federal support through programs like the Provider Relief Fund.

In the April 2020 CARES Act, Congress created the PRF with an initial $100 billion in support for providers caring for patients with COVID-19 and who suffered high expenses and lost revenues caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Congress further supplemented the fund with an additional $86.5 billion over the next year through the Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enactment Act, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 and the American Rescue Plan.

As of December 10th, 2021, your Department has sent out over $130 billion in funding from the PRF across three phases of General Distributions and eight targeted allocations, the most recent being the $8.5 billion in American Rescue Plan’s Rural payments. These General Distributions were made using various formulas based on revenues and losses reported in past years’ Medicare and Medicaid cost reporting, tax filings and other financial information. The targeted allocations were based on a wider variety of factors including in some cases the level of COVID-19 admissions at a hospital provider.

In September 2021, HHS announced that up to $17 billion would be made available in a new PRF General Distribution and solicited applications from providers across the country for this funding. The information collected in these applications to develop the formula that will calculate these General Distribution payments once again only considered past tax filings, cost reporting data and other financial information. It does not consider the rising levels of COVID-19 in hard-hit areas such as Upstate New York.

In light of the ongoing increase in COVID-19 cases, I ask that your Department refer to its past practices at the height of the pandemic and incorporate data into the General Distribution formula that captures the enormous burdens placed on providers who are treating patients and saving lives in areas with high rates of COVID-19 cases. I also call on the Department to make these determinations swiftly and distribute the funds as soon as possible. Providers like Wyoming County Community Hospital need these funds now, and communities like those in Western New York cannot afford to wait any longer.

I thank you and your Department for your excellent service during this crisis.

Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-gillibrand-announce-over-16-million-in-federal-funding-to-support-economic-growth-in-low-income-and-distressed-communities-across-new-york,"SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND ANNOUNCE OVER $16 MILLION IN FEDERAL FUNDING TO SUPPORT ECONOMIC GROWTH IN LOW-INCOME & DISTRESSED COMMUNITIES ACROSS NEW YORK",2021-12-20,2021,2021-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Senators Say Awards Build Capacity of CDFIs, Helping Meet the Unique Needs Of Economically Underserved Communities And Disadvantaged Small Businesses

Schumer, Gillibrand: Investment Into Vulnerable Communities Is Critical To Recovery Of Entire NY Economy

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $16,006,830 in federal funding for 28 Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) across New York. The funding was allocated by the Department of the Treasury through the Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) and includes both financial assistance and technical assistance awards to support the services offered by CDFIs. The senators said the funding will be used to invest in the capacity and capital programs offered by CDFIs, empowering them to grow, achieve organizational sustainability, and support low-income and distressed communities by contributing to their revitalization and expanding access to capital and other critical assistance for disadvantaged small businesses.

“The CDFI Fund is a vital stream of federal investment that supports financial services to New York’s most vulnerable communities and expands access to capital and support for disadvantaged small businesses,” said Senator Schumer. “I have made it a high priority to fund the CDFI program and deliver this critical assistance to New York to help to uplift our most vulnerable neighborhoods, businesses, and families who are still struggling from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, and boost recovery efforts across the state. I will continue to fight to protect critical investments like these for our communities and make sure New York gets the federal investment it needs to fully recover and come back stronger.”

“This critical CDFI funding will support New York’s underserved communities, low-income neighborhoods, and small businesses,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This significant federal investment is great news for New York State and will put over $16 million back into the businesses and communities that need it most. I will keep fighting in the Senate for the resources needed to stimulate local businesses, bolster support for our communities, and create sustainable jobs.”

The Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI) provides small businesses and community development projects with capital investment unavailable in their local economies. The program funds projects that work to revitalize low-income and underserved communities. Some CDFIs focus their programs on an immediate region of service while others are national in the scope of their work, including projects and investments in New York.

A breakdown of the funding appears below:

Organization

City/State

Award

Accompany Capital, Inc.

New York, NY

$676,530

Alternatives Venture Fund Inc. Ithaca, NY

$125,000

BOC Capital Corp

Brooklyn, NY

$701,530

Brooklyn Alliance Capital Inc

Brooklyn, NY

$125,000

Brooklyn Cooperative Federal Credit Union

Brooklyn, NY

$476,530

CheckSpring Community Corporation

Bronx, NY

$676,530

Community Development Venture Capital Alliance

New York, NY

$701,530

Disability Fund, Inc.

Rockville Centre, NY

$1,090,000

Equitable Facilities Fund

New York, NY

$125,000

Finest Federal Credit Union

New York, NY

$125,000

Grameen America, Inc.

New York, NY

$1,046,530

Habitat for Humanity NYC Fund, Inc.

New York, NY

$125,000

Harlem Business Alliance, Inc.

New York, NY

$125,000

Launch New York, Inc.

Buffalo, NY

$225,000

Local Initiatives Support Corporation

New York, NY

$3,440,000

Lower East Side Peoples Federal Credit Union

New York, NY

$476,530

National Federation of Community Development Credit Unions

New York, NY

$625,000

Neighborhood Trust Federal Credit Union

New York, NY

$676,530

New York University FCU

New York, NY

$701,530

Nonprofit Finance Fund

New York, NY

$1,201,530

Oswego County FCU

Oswego, NY

$590,000

Renaissance Economic Development Corporation

New York, NY

$701,530

Syracuse Cooperative Federal Credit Union

Syracuse, NY

$125,000

The Urban Empowerment Fund

New York, NY

$125,000

The Working World, Inc. dba Seed Commons

New York, NY

$525,000

USAlliance Federal Credit Union

Rye, NY

$125,000

Utica Neighborhood Housing Services, Inc

Utica, NY

$200,000

Seneca Nation of Indians Federal Credit Union

Irving, NY

$150,000

TOTAL:

$16,006,830

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-secures-historic-295-million-to-make-the-port-of-albany-one-of-the-nations-first-large-scale-offshore-wind-tower-manufacturing-facilities-after-direct-advocacy-to-the-transportation-secretary-schumer-delivers-29m-to-create-550-permanent-new-jobs-bolstering-the-us-domestic-clean-energy-supply-chain-and-capital-region-economy-and-strengthening-the-fight-against-climate-change,"SCHUMER SECURES HISTORIC $29.5 MILLION TO MAKE THE PORT OF ALBANY ONE OF THE NATION’S FIRST LARGE-SCALE, OFFSHORE WIND TOWER MANUFACTURING FACILITIES; AFTER DIRECT ADVOCACY TO THE TRANSPORTATION...",2021-12-20,2021,2021-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Schumer, A Long-Time Advocate For The Port of Albany, Called Transportation Secretary Buttigieg Directly To Advocate For The Funding Multiple Times

Senator Says Port of Albany Project Will Be One Of The Most Significant Job-Creating And Green-Energy Economic Development Projects in Capital Region’s History

Schumer: $29.5M Will Be The Wind In The Port Of Albany’s Sails & Blow New Life Into Albany Economy & Our Fight Against Climate Change

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer today announced that – following his direct advocacy to the USDOT – the Port of Albany Offshore Wind Tower Manufacturing Project was awarded $29.5 million through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MARAD) Port Infrastructure Development Grant program.

Schumer a longtime advocate for the Port of Albany’s revitalization, made direct calls to Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg multiple times to urge approval of this transformative funding for the Capital Region. Schumer said the project will be one of the first large-scale offshore wind tower manufacturing facilities in the U.S. and is expected to create an estimated 500 construction jobs and 550 direct and full-time new manufacturing and support jobs.

“The Port of Albany Offshore Wind Manufacturing Project will be one of the most significant job-creating, renewable-energy economic development projects in the Capital Region’s history. I made it clear to Secretary Buttigieg that Albany has all of the right ingredients to be one of the nation’s first large-scale offshore wind tower manufacturing facility. I am proud to have secured this massive $29.5 million federal investment to help the Port of Albany reach new heights, boost the region’s local economy, and blow a gust of new life into our fight against climate change,” said Senator Schumer. “This project is a true win-win-win that will create hundreds of good-paying union jobs, boost New York’s clean-energy manufacturing sector, all while combatting climate change in big, bold ways. Albany has the wind at its back with this announcement, and the future looks very bright.”

Rich Hendrick, CEO of the Port of Albany, said, “This funding comes at a pivotal time for the Port of Albany’s offshore wind project and would not be possible without the strong support from Senator Schumer. This funding will support building the infrastructure necessary to support the type of heavy cargo that will be manufactured by our offshore wind partners. The project will bring hundreds of jobs to the Capital Region and add to the Port’s significant contributions to the Capital Region economy. Offshore wind will play an important role in managing climate change, transforming energy production and reducing harmful emissions. The Port of Albany is excited to play a part in this critical industry and looks forward to working with our surrounding community on this important project. We thank Senator Schumer and Secretary Buttigieg for their support and commitment to getting this done.”

Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan said, “I am so thankful to Senator Schumer for securing this $29.5 million grant - funding that is vital to ensuring the nation’s first offshore wind manufacturing facility opens at the Port of Albany as soon as possible. I will continue to work closely with Senator Schumer to create a workforce training center in the South End because we both agree our residents who live near the Port of Albany should have every opportunity to secure the good-paying careers that will be created through this transformative investment.”

Albany County Executive Dan McCoy said, ""This 29 1/2 million dollar commitment to offshore wind power at the Port of Albany is another investment that will benefit not only the county and our state but help reduce our carbon footprint and continue to make New York a leader in the production of renewable energy across the country. This project will also be responsible for 150 wind towers built each year and will bring with it 500 construction jobs and 300 long-term, high skilled jobs.""

Schumer said the Port of Albany manufacturing facility will have the fabrication and assembly capabilities to support the projects being developed in and off the coast of New York State as well as many future national offshore wind projects. Schumer explained that currently many of the offshore wind tower components are only available outside of the U.S. making this project critical in strengthening the U.S. domestic clean energy supply chain. The senator said that this recently secured funding would ensure Upstate New York becomes the national hub for new wind technology manufacturing.

Schumer also said that this increased investment for the Port of Albany would significantly boost its competitiveness in expanding and attracting major employers like General Electric (GE) to manufacture wind turbines in Upstate New York. Earlier this year, Senator Schumer reached out directly to GE CEO, H. Lawrence Culp Jr. to express his support for GE expanding in the region to manufacture their new Haliade-X wind turbines in New York, specifically mentioning the Port of Albany as a key asset for building up the Capital region as a national hub for wind turbine manufacturing.

Senator Schumer has a long history fighting to help revitalize the Port of Albany. In 2016, Schumer secured $17.6 million for the Port of Albany through the USDOT Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) grant. This funding supported a complete overhaul of the Port of Albany including reconstructing the entire outdoor maritime terminal, building a new warehouse, expanding the wharf, and significantly improving the port roadways. Schumer then personally visited the Port of Albany in 2019 to see the progress and continue his commitment to the Port of Albany’s economic expansion.

In addition to the recently announced funding, Schumer said the Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act (IIJA) that was recently signed into law, provides more than $17 billion for port and waterway infrastructure, including $2.25 billion over five years for the DOT’s Port Infrastructure Development Program. Schumer also secured $7.5 billion over five years for the Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) grants and $3.2 billion over five years for the Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) Grant Program, both of which can support port infrastructure development, and IIJA added port infrastructure as an eligible use of the Railroad Rehabilitation and Improvement Financing (RRIF) program.

A copy of Schumer’s original letter of support to Secretary Buttigieg appears below:

Dear Secretary Buttigieg,

I am pleased to write in support of the application submitted by the Port of Albany to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s 2021 Port Infrastructure Development Program grant (PIDP) to support the development of the United States’ first offshore wind tower manufacturing facility at the Port of Albany that is a partnership with Equinor and Marmen/Welcon. The Offshore Wind Tower Manufacturing Port Project grant application outlines the planned investment, substantial positive renewable energy and community benefits, as well as new job creation and major local investment.

The Port of Albany manufacturing facility will have the fabrication and assembly capabilities to support the projects being developed in New York State as well as many future national and regional offshore wind projects. Currently, the offshore wind tower components are only available outside of the U.S. The entire construction project is planned for more than $350 million investment including investment from Port, private and state of New York sources.

This project will create 550 jobs and likely to generate important additional economic benefits in New York State. It is expected that hundreds of construction jobs will be created to develop the site and an additional level of indirect jobs that are spurred by the planned manufacturing and maritime activities. Further, it is expected that this facility will generate substantial annual regional investments in direct payroll and procurement expenditures. This is precisely how we move the economy ahead with projects that invest in the green economy and have local benefits.

The PIDP funds are vital to reducing project risk and maximizing optionality during this unusually fluctuating international economic market. Energizing a green economy is key to our future. I applaud the Port of Albany for its foresight, and sincerely hope the application meets with your approval.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-gillibrand-announce-newly-passed-infrastructure-dollars-will-be-used-to-clean-up-superfund-sites-in-elmira-town-of-vestal-and-niagara-county,"SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND ANNOUNCE NEWLY-PASSED INFRASTRUCTURE DOLLARS WILL BE USED TO CLEAN UP SUPERFUND SITES IN ELMIRA, TOWN OF VESTAL, AND NIAGARA COUNTY",2021-12-17,2021,2021-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Of the 49 Backlogged Sites on the National Priorities List Receiving Funding, 3 New York Locations Prioritized For Hazardous Waste Cleanup

Projects in Elmira, Town of Vestal, and Niagara County Funded Following Schumer, Gillibrand Securing Record-Breaking Funding in the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced that due to funding secured through the bipartisan infrastructure and jobs package, the Environmental Protection Agency will accelerate hazardous waste cleanup in Elmira, the Town of Vestal, and Niagara County. Some of these projects have been listed on the EPA National Priorities List (NPL) for decades waiting for federal funding. Senators Schumer and Gillibrand fought to bring this critical funding back to New York to finalize hazardous waste cleanup at these sites. Because of this funding, the EPA will now facilitate the long-term cleanup of hazardous waste at the Vestal Water Supply Well 1-1 in Vestal, Facet Enterprises, Inc. in Elmira, and Eighteen Mile Creek in Niagara County.

“The recently-passed Bipartisan Infrastructure and Jobs Law includes a surge of new funding for the federal Superfund program that we fought hard to deliver, and those dollars are now being put to use to jumpstart long-delayed clean-ups at toxic sites in Elmira, the town of Vestal, and Niagara County,” said Senator Schumer. “Cleaning up these toxic sites in Elmira, Vestal, and Niagara County is critical to protect the public health, clean up our environment and pave the way for economic regeneration at these locations. I applaud the EPA and President Biden for focusing on improving the Superfund program and moving quickly to put these infrastructure dollars to use to benefit the public and create new jobs.”

“I’m thrilled to announce that key Superfund sites located in Elmira, the town of Vestal, and Niagara County are receiving the funds needed to clean up hazardous waste in these communities. This critical funding is a direct result of the bipartisan infrastructure package and will help clean up these sites in order to keep the surrounding communities safe from exposure to harmful, toxic waste,” said Senator Gillibrand. “The health of New Yorkers should not be put at risk due to toxic waste dumps – period. I fought alongside Senator Schumer to secure and deliver this funding, and I am grateful to the Biden administration for quickly disbursing this money.”

The Vestal Water Supply Well 1-1 Superfund site located in Vestal, New York was one of three production wells in the Vestal Town Water District 1 intended to provide drinking water to several water districts in the area. Well 1-1 is moderately contaminated with several volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and will receive thermal soil treatment. Other soil in the area contaminated with polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) will be excavated and removed from the site.

The Facet Enterprises, Inc. facility is a 31-acre parcel of land in the Village of Elmira Heights. The facility was previously used to make products such as bicycle parts, automobile engine components and small arms for the military. Vapors from chemical contamination, primarily trichloroethylene (TCE), have seeped into more than 65 properties in the vicinity of this site. TCE can produce emissions that rise through the soil and potentially affect indoor air quality, a condition known as vapor intrusion. The EPA will use these federal funds to install vapor mitigation system to remove harmful chemicals from soil where there is potential for vapor intrusion, specifically trichloroethylene (TCE).

The Eighteen Mile Creek Superfund site located in Niagara County flows north for approximately 15 miles, discharging to Lake Ontario in Olcott. The Eighteen Mile Creek Corridor extends from the Creek's headwaters at the Barge Canal to Harwood Road in Lockport and contains most of the site's sediment, soil, and groundwater contamination. The federal funding will be used to excavate and dispose of lead and PCB contaminated sediment within the Creek Corridor. Additionally, soil at adjacent upland commercial properties will be excavated and disposed.

The Superfund program was established by Congress in 1980 to investigate and facilitate cleanup of the nation’s most complex, uncontrolled, and abandoned hazardous waste sites. Only sites added to the NPL are eligible to receive federal funding for long-term permanent cleanup. The EPA’s Superfund program operates under the “polluter pays” principle, giving the EPA the authority to require polluters to take responsibility for cleanup of the environmental contamination they caused. EPA adds sites to the NPL when mismanagement of contamination threatens human health and the environment.

The Senators outlined the sections of the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act related to cleaning up pollution below:

$3.5 billion available for 5 years for the Remedial account within the Hazardous Substance Superfund. This section of the bill would allow the Environmental Protection Agency to invest in clean-ups and continue moving forward on remedial actions for Superfund sites.

$1.2 billion for the Brownfields competitive grants while raising grant caps for half of the competitive grant funding under this section ($600 million).

$1.5 billion equally distributed over 5 years for State and Tribal Assistance Grants: Brownfields This section of the bill would provide significant investment into the Brownfields program to help communities, States, Tribes and others to assess, safely clean up, and sustainably reuse contaminated properties.

$300 million for Brownfields categorical grants to support the development and progress being made under state-led Brownfields efforts. All state cost share requirements for this section have been waived.

$14.45 billion from reinstating certain Superfund fees that will be collected over the next 10 years and provide a steady stream of funding to clean up Superfund sites.

Senators Schumer and Gillibrand have long fought to address water contamination, expedite Superfund designations, and remove PFAS to protect public health in New York State. In 2017, following a multi-year push, the senators announced the EPA’s designation of Hoosick Falls as a Superfund site to facilitate cleanup of PFOA at Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/after-visiting-rochesters-hickey-freeman-earlier-this-year-schumer-calls-agriculture-secretary-vilsack-directly-to-urge-the-usda-to-release-desperately-needed-pandemic-relief-payments-to-wool-trust-fund-recipients_would-provide-much-needed-boost-to-domestic-textile-manufacturers-like-hickey-freeman-and-support-recently-announced-100-job-expansion,"AFTER VISITING ROCHESTER’S HICKEY FREEMAN EARLIER THIS YEAR, SCHUMER CALLS AGRICULTURE SECRETARY VILSACK DIRECTLY TO URGE THE USDA TO RELEASE DESPERATELY NEEDED PANDEMIC RELIEF PAYMENTS TO WOOL TRUST...",2021-12-16,2021,2021-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"American Textile Factories, Like Hickey Freeman, Stepped Up During The Pandemic To Manufacture Critical PPE For Their Community While Facing Tremendous Economic Losses

Schumer In Personal Call With Secretary Of Agriculture Says Pandemic Relief Payments To Wool Trust Fund Recipients, Like Hickey Freeman, Should Be Released ASAP To Get These Companies On The Road To Recovery

Schumer: USDA Must Help Patch Up The Significant Losses Faced By Textile Industry, Give Hickey Freeman The Support They Need To Continue To Grow And Support 100 New Jobs

Following his visit earlier this year to announce 100 new jobs after fighting for years to keep the Hickey Freeman factory in business, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer made a personal call to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary, Tom Vilsack, to urge the USDA to provide pandemic relief payments to domestic textile manufacturers like Hickey Freeman, which have sustained tremendous pandemic-induced losses. On the call, Schumer said Congress has already allocated funds under the CARES Act so the USDA would have the necessary resources to offer support to an array of business impacted by the pandemic and that the USDA can use this funding to aid the domestic textile industry, including companies like Hickey Freeman, as it recovers from the pandemic.

“Companies like Hickey Freeman stepped up to help their communities in the pandemic while facing tremendous economic losses. That’s why I called Agriculture Secretary Vilsack to urge him to use the funding in the CARES Act to provide desperately needed relief to domestic textile manufacturers like Hickey Freeman,” said Senator Schumer. “This funding, in tandem with recent wins like my Make PPE In America Act in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act, would provide critical support for the continued growth of this 122-year-old Rochester icon. I will continue to fight tooth and nail so that Hickey Freeman can fully recover and maintain their robust presence in Rochester.”

Stephen Granovsky, CEO of Hickey Freeman parent company Rochester Tailored Clothing said, “The last 20 months have been a tremendously challenging time for our factory and employees. To restore our company to health and compete successfully, we appreciate the support of Senator Schumer, who has so many times before answered our call and worked tirelessly on our behalf. Hickey Freeman is once again leading our industry and we are forever thankful to the Senator.”

Schumer explained that companies like Hickey Freeman are recipients of the USDA’s Wool Trust Fund which compensates the domestic suit industry for the competitive disadvantage that results from an unfair “tariff inversion” where the duty on the imported finished product is lower than the duty on the inputs used to make the product here at home. The program is essential to put companies like Hickey Freeman back on a level playing field with overseas suit competitors who import suits into the U.S. without ever having to pay the same wool duties as U.S. suit producers. Without the Wool Trust Fund, Hickey Freeman’s overseas competitors would have an unfair leg-up while putting our own U.S. manufacturers like Hickey Freeman in the lurch for making suits in the USA.

During the pandemic, however, the industry was hit hard by decreased consumer spending, cancelled formal events, and shifts in demand. Thus, Schumer said additional support beyond what the Trust Fund can provide is needed to protect the domestic market, allow companies to recover from the pandemic, and help businesses, like Hickey Freeman, expand and create new jobs.

Schumer said the CARES Act included additional funds to the USDA’s Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC), which can be used to assist industries as they continues to recover from the economic impacts of the pandemic and that the USDA should use this funding to support the domestic textile industry, including companies like Hickey Freeman.

Schumer has long fought to keep Hickey Freeman in business in Rochester. In 2009, when Hickey Freeman’s parent company at the time, Hartmarx, declared bankruptcy, threatening a liquidation and closure of the Rochester factory, Schumer led the charge to save this factory. Schumer successfully urged Hartmarx’s creditor, Wells Fargo, to continue providing Hartmarx with the credit they needed to continue manufacturing jobs in Rochester, saving hundreds of jobs. Ultimately, in 2012 Schumer helped save Hickey Freeman from bankruptcy, by shepherding a deal that allowed Grano Retail’s Luxury Men’s Apparel Group (LMAG), in partnership with Hickey Freeman Brand owner Authentic Brands Group (ABG) to take over the Hickey Freeman Rochester factory in 2013. In the time since, Schumer support helped LMAG and Hickey Freeman secure new contracts to manufacture suits for Dillard’s Department Store as well as for Ralph Lauren’s Blue Label line of Polo suits and sports jackets, and even for Hickey Freeman to help produce clothing for the 2016 Team USA Olympic Team.

In 2014, Schumer was instrumental to first secure legislation in that year’s federal Farm Bill to extend the Wool Trust Fund’s authorization for five years through 2019 and to secondly restore adequate trust fund payment levels to address several years when the Trust was underfunded. In December 2018, Schumer secured the provision in the Federal Farm Bill that fully funded the federal Wool Trust Fund program through 2023 which saves Hickey Freeman as much as $3 million a year in relief from unfair tariffs. The Wool Trust Fund was set to expire in 2019, and while the House of Representatives’ version of the Farm Bill included a provision to extend the trust fund until 2023 it also called for the Fund to be cut by 50% which would have jeopardized the viability of Rochester’s Hickey Freeman factory. Fortunately, Schumer secured a provision in the Senate’s version of the Farm Bill and in the final bill that was signed into law in December 2018 that not only extended the Trust Fund program until 2023, but also fully funded it at 100%. As a result of these efforts, Hickey Freeman’s Rochester factory is one of the few remaining US-based suit and apparel manufacturers.

A copy of Schumer’s letter to Secretary Vilsack sent earlier this year appears below:

Dear Secretary Vilsack,

I am writing to ask that the U.S. Department of Agriculture provide additional support for domestic manufacturers of tailored clothing and wool and cotton textile products. These manufacturers and producers have faced incredible challenges over the past year and a half and I urge USDA to use its existing authority and funding through the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) to assist this industry as it continues to recover from the economic impacts of the pandemic.

As you know, the Pima Agriculture Cotton and Agriculture Wool Apparel Manufacturers Trust Fund programs were established to support the domestic textile industry, including companies in New York State like Hickey Freeman Tailored Clothing and Martin Greenfield Clothiers, and level the playing field to ensure domestic manufacturers and their U.S. workforce could compete against foreign manufacturers. Past support from the Trust Funds has been invaluable to the domestic textile industry. However, during the pandemic the industry was hit hard by decreased consumer spending, cancelled formal events, and shifts in demand. Additional support beyond what the Trust Funds can provide is needed to protect the domestic market, allow companies to recover from the pandemic, and help businesses expand into new markets.

I urge you to use a portion of the CCC funding to help fill this gap. The CCC can be used to expand or develop new domestic markets and increase domestic consumption of agricultural commodities. At the offset of the pandemic, Congress allocated additional funds for the CCC under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act so USDA would have the necessary resources to offer support to agricultural producers impacted by the pandemic. Using this funding to support the domestic textile industry as it recovers from the pandemic would be consistent with this goal.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has both the authority and the funding to provide essential relief to this hard-hit industry. I ask that you seriously consider disbursing payments through the CCC to ensure domestic manufacturers and producers receive the support they need to recover from the devastating impacts of the pandemic by specifically making a payment in an amount equal to the greater of what the Trust Fund recipient companies received in 2019 or 2020.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter and if you have any questions please don’t hesitate to contact my staff.

Sincerely,

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-gillibrand-announce-more-than-130-million-in-federal-funding-for-new-york-airports-,"SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND ANNOUNCE MORE THAN $130 MILLION IN FEDERAL FUNDING FOR NEW YORK AIRPORTS",2021-12-16,2021,2021-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced $136,977,897 in federal funding for 59 airports across New York State. The FY22 funding was allocated through the recently enacted Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and can be used for improvements related to runways, taxiways, safety and sustainability projects, as well as terminal, airport-transit connections and roadway projects.

“Air travel was severely impacted during the pandemic, and this tremendous investment from the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act, which I championed in the Senate, will help New York’s airports and local economies take off,” said Senator Schumer. “Upstate Airports connect businesses and residents and allow economic opportunities to cruise in. As majority leader, I am proud to land this significant funding for New York’s airports and will continue to fight for the resources needed to fully recover and reach new heights.”

“New York’s airports connect our state with the world, creating economic opportunity, facilitating tourism, and providing a safe and efficient travel experience,” said Senator Gillibrand. “That’s why I’m proud to have voted for the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to deliver this historic investment to over 50 airports across New York State. These funds will allow our airports to recover from the toll of the COVID-19 pandemic and meet the ever-increasing demand for air travel. I’ll keep fighting for federal resources to bolster and modernize New York’s infrastructure.”

A full list of recipients is below:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-gillibrand-announce-more-than-1-million-in-federal-funding-to-expand-access-to-broadband-in-the-southern-tier-and-finger-lakes,"SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND ANNOUNCE MORE THAN $1 MILLION IN FEDERAL FUNDING TO EXPAND ACCESS TO BROADBAND IN THE SOUTHERN TIER AND FINGER LAKES",2021-12-15,2021,2021-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced $1,094,614 in federal funding for the towns of Dryden and Caton to expand access to broadband internet. The funding was allocated through the Appalachian Regional Commission and will be used to install fiber optic cables and establish telecommunications towers to provide broadband services to over 4,000 households and roughly 300 businesses in the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes that currently lack reliable internet access.

“Long before COVID-19, rural and urban communities throughout the Southern Tier and Upstate New York have struggled to close the digital divide. Reliable, fast internet access isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity required to create good-paying jobs, to communicate, to access health care, to shop, and to learn,” said Senator Schumer. “I am proud to deliver this investment which will help the Town of Dryden and the Town of Caton close the digital divide. I’ll continue fighting tooth and nail to bring the Southern Tier’s broadband infrastructure into the 21st century.”

“Since the beginning of the pandemic, millions of New Yorkers have relied on the internet to work, learn, receive health care, and see their loved ones,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Yet in too many of our rural communities, internet access is unreliable or nonexistent, meaning that the more than 1 million households in New York State that lack broadband are cut off from critical services and economic opportunity. This funding is an important step to help close the digital divide and spur economic growth in the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes. I’ll keep fighting to ensure that every New Yorker, regardless of zip code, has access to fast, reliable internet.”

""We are happy ARC is supporting Dryden Fiber, which will provide residents, educators, and businesses in Dryden with fast, reliable and affordable municipal broadband internet service,” said Dryden town supervisor, Jason Leifer. “Dryden Fiber will begin construction and serve customers in 2022.""

“This is great news for Dryden residents and a major boost for our project,” added Dryden deputy town supervisor, Dan Lamb. “We are fortunate to have federal leaders, like Senator Schumer and Senator Gillibrand, who recognize the importance of expanding internet access in rural areas.”

The Town of Caton will receive $470,000 to establish four new broadband telecommunications towers to bring broadband services to the communities of Caton and Lindley. The Town of Dryden will receive $624,614 to install 13.5 miles of fiber optic cabling that will service 50 public school buildings, 4 vocational school campuses, 28 public libraries, and multiple universities.

Senators Schumer and Gillibrand have been longtime advocates for the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) and expanding high-speed internet access in the Southern Tier. In the recently passed Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, Schumer and Gillibrand secured $1 billion for the ARC over 5 years, increasing the budget to $200 million per year through 2026, including $20 million per year in dedicated funding to deploy high-speed internet across the region. The legislation also includes nearly $2 billion for USDA’s ReConnect Program for the construction or improvement of facilities that provide broadband services in rural areas and $14.2 billion to create a permanent, sustainable Affordable Connectivity Benefit that will provide a $30 per month voucher for low-income families to use toward any internet service plan of their choosing. Schumer said this investment would provide additional support for broadband, economic development, infrastructure, and workforce development programs to improve the quality of life and create new business growth and job opportunities across the Southern Tier and throughout Upstate NY. Over the last decade, the ARC has helped fund over $32 million in essential projects for Upstate NY, helping create or retain over 4,400 jobs. Projects have included expanded access to high-speed internet, projects to reduce energy costs, support for entrepreneurs and small businesses, and workforce training.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/following-schumers-push-danone-extends-upstate-ny-contracts-to-2023-danone-originally-planned-to-terminate-almost-100-northeast-dairy-farms-but-schumer-intervened-and-secured-contract-extension_-assistance-to-impacted-farms-and-resources-to-help-farmers-stay-in-operation--,"FOLLOWING SCHUMER’S PUSH, DANONE EXTENDS UPSTATE NY CONTRACTS TO 2023; DANONE ORIGINALLY PLANNED TO TERMINATE ALMOST 100 NORTHEAST DAIRY FARMS, BUT SCHUMER INTERVENED AND SECURED CONTRACT EXTENSION,  ...",2021-12-14,2021,2021-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"When Danone North America Announced Plans To Leave Organic Dairy Farms In Upstate, Schumer Immediately Began Working To Ensure These Struggling Farmers Would Have All Resources Made Available To Help Them Survive

After Schumer’s Direct Advocacy, Danone Will Now Extend Dairy Contracts Till 2023, Make Transition Payments To Farmers, & Provide Access To Farm Financial Consultants To Affected Farms

Following news that Horizon Organic, a subsidiary of multinational food conglomerate Danone, planned to terminate contracts with organic dairy farmers across the northeast, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer today announced Danone has heeded his call to provide financial support and resources to Upstate New York dairy farms impacted by their decision and importantly also to extend the contracts until 2023, which were previously set to expire in August 2022, to ease the impact on farmers and give them time to transition. Schumer wrote a letter to Danone in October calling for the continued support of affected farms and said the commitment he secured from Danone will help ensure farmers have the resources and time they desperately needed to transition and remain in operation.

“New York’s dairy farmers are the lifeblood of the Upstate economy and produce some of the best dairy the nation has to offer. I’m pleased that Danone heeded my call, stepped up, and provided the impacted farmers contract extensions and the needed resources to ensure their long-term economic viability,” said Senator Schumer. “This is a wonderful early Christmas present for the dairy farmers and will allot them critical additional time and the financial payments they deserve as they move forward. I am thankful that Danone responded to my request, and I will continue to closely monitor the situation and fight to make sure these dairy farmers have all the support needed in this difficult period.”

Specifically, after Schumer’s direct advocacy, Danone has now said that they will:

Provide affected producers the option to extend their current contract an additional six months, for a total of 18-months, ending on February 28, 2023.

Provide a transition payment of an additional amount per hundredweight on the milk Danone purchased from these producers. Danone also is providing this additional financial support to the Northeast farmers who have already exited the network after receiving the non-renewal notification, by providing such transition payment for the milk purchased in the last six months of their relationship.

Provide access, at no cost to the farmer, to farm financial consultants that specialize in providing support for the agriculture community to help plan the future of their farms.

Schumer said that this support will help ease the impact of the contract termination on the organic dairy community and create a greater window of opportunity for the farms to plan for the future.

In addition to his direct advocacy with Danone, Schumer also recently called on U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack to move to close organic loopholes and use whatever funding sources and programs available to support small and mid-sized organic dairy farmers ASAP. Specifically, he called on Secretary Vilsack to act on the Origin of Livestock Rule, which was first initiated in 2015, to close a loophole that has allowed large-scale producers in some states to rotate animals in and out of organic management and sell under an organic label. The senator argued that not only does this practice threaten the livelihoods of small- and mid-size organic dairy farmers, but it also undermines consumer confidence in the organic label, leading to an overall negative view of the entire industry. Therefore, Schumer called on USDA to finalize the Origin of Livestock rule, and close the loophole in organic dairy farming.

Schumer also called on USDA to use any and all tools at the agency’s disposal to support the farmers affected by Danone’s decision to terminate contracts and work with stakeholders to expand market channels for their products. This includes expanded support through the USDA’s Pandemic Assistance for Producers program, targeted investments in processing capacity and transportation efficiencies for businesses that can contract with these farmers, as well as temporary price supports to allow these farmers to transition to new markets.

Senator Schumer’s original letter to Danone appears below:

Dear Mr. Grant,

I write to inquire about Danone’s recent decision to terminate a reported eighty-nine contracts with organic dairy farms in the Northeast. According to the Albany Times Union report from September 17, 2021, more than half of the farms impacted —forty-six—are located in Upstate New York, including seventeen in just Washington County – nearly 20% of the county’s farms. Considering the significant impact to Upstate New York farms, communities, and local economies, most in the North Country region, I ask that you provide some detailed information regarding Danone’s recent decision to terminate the contracts, how this decision was reached, the projected timeline, and what communication and resources have been and will be provided to the impacted farms across the state.

With Danone North America located in White Plains, New York, I’m confident that Danone is aware that New York’s organic dairies produce some of the best organic dairy products in the nation and our dairy farmers are a vital part of our state’s culture and economy. As of 2019, New York had approximately 600 organic dairy farms which produced more than 386 million pounds of milk and represented about $121 million in sales. Many of the New York organic farms Danone contracted with made the transition to organic farming specifically to work with Danone in order to secure a reliable and sustainable income source and become more environmentally-conscious to combat the ever-growing challenges presented by climate change. Losing contracts with Danone will create additional hardships for our organic dairy farmers, many of whom are still struggling to recover from the supply chain disruptions, shifts in consumer demands, and other economic hardships exacerbated by the global health and economic crises of the past year.

I seek to gain clarity regarding Danone’s recent decision. Your replies to the following question would be deeply appreciated:

Can you please confirm the number of New York farms that have been notified of contract termination and their locations across the state?

What is the timeline and process for termination?

Can you explain why the contracts were terminated and what process Danone underwent to come to this decision?

What services, opportunities, and/or relief will be provided to the impacted farms and farmers?

What aid, if any, will Danone be giving to the impacted farms to gain employment or contracts elsewhere?

Once these contracts are complete, how many farms in New York State will Danone be working with and what is the average herd size at those farms?

As you may know, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently reopened their comment period regarding the Origin of Livestock rule. Currently, the statute is somewhat vague and has created an unequal playing field for organic producers in New York. What, if any, role did the USDA’s Origin of Livestock rule play in this decision?

In New York our organic dairy farms are sewn into the very fabric of Upstate New York. It is critical that these organic dairy farms receive the support they need to remain in operation and the information necessary to map out their futures.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter. I look forward to receiving your response.

Sincerely,

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/following-his-direct-advocacy-schumer-announces-binghamtons-new-energy-ny-project-selected-as-one-of-nations-first-awardees-for-phase-1-of-build-back-better-challenge-bringing-500k-and-a-national-spotlight-on-the-southern-tier-as-an-emerging-battery-manufacturing-hub-and-putting-the-project-in-the-running-for-up-to-100-million-federal-investment,"FOLLOWING HIS DIRECT ADVOCACY, SCHUMER ANNOUNCES BINGHAMTON’S NEW ENERGY NY PROJECT SELECTED AS ONE OF NATION’S FIRST AWARDEES FOR PHASE 1 OF BUILD BACK BETTER CHALLENGE, BRINGING $500K AND A NATIONAL...",2021-12-13,2021,2021-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"BBB Regional Challenge Phase 1 Grant Will Provide $500,000 In Technical Assistance Funding To Develop Proposal To Supercharge Southern Tier Battery Manufacturing And Allow Project To Compete In Exclusive Phase 2 For Up to $100 Million Award To Transform The Southern Tier Economy

Senator Says Project Brings Together Major Regional Stakeholders: Binghamton University, SUNY Broome, Rochester Institute of Technology, NY-BEST, And More To Turn Upstate New York Into A Battery Manufacturing Powerhouse

Schumer: Southern Tier’s New Energy NY Project Being Selected As A BBB Challenge Finalist Is A Game Changer That Will Put Broome County On The Map For Battery Manufacturing

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer announced that following his direct advocacy the Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) has selected the Binghamton University-led New Energy New York battery manufacturing project as a Phase 1 awardee and finalist for investment through the American Rescue Plan’s Build Back Better Regional Challenge. Schumer said that as a Phase 1 awardee the project will receive $500,000 in technical assistance funds to develop its proposal to expand research, development, testing, and workforce assets to meet the demand of the emerging battery manufacturing industry in the Southern Tier and Upstate NY. If fully funded, the project estimates that over a 10 year period as many as 8,000 jobs new direct jobs would be created as a result of this effort, with the potential to support or sustain thousands of additional indirect jobs. Schumer explained that as a finalist, the project will have the exclusive opportunity to compete for up to a $100 million federal award to the region through the EDA to implement the proposed projects.

“This is BIG news for Binghamton. The Southern Tier has long been a home to innovation, as the birthplace of IBM, flight simulation and virtual reality, and it continues to do groundbreaking research through world-renowned institutions like Binghamton University. Now, many more will see what I’ve long-known: the Southern Tier has all the right ingredients to be the nation’s next battery manufacturing and research hub,” said Senator Schumer. “This award will bring $500 thousand into the region and make the New Energy NY project eligible for an up to $100 million federal award to transform the Greater Binghamton area and broader Upstate New York region, create thousands of jobs, fuel the innovation necessary to combat climate change, and importantly strengthen a critical area of the U.S. domestic manufacturing supply chain. I am proud to have fought for the New Energy NY project to be selected for Phase 1 and I will continue to fight tooth and nail to secure the final award and supercharge this growing area of the Upstate New York economy.”

""We've worked for so many years to advance battery storage technologies and now more than ever, these advancements are needed to not only create jobs and improve the regional economy, they are crucial to our nation's energy goals and energy security efforts,"" said M. Stanley Whittingham, Binghamton University distinguished professor, researcher and 2019 Nobel prize winner in chemistry. ""Our NENY proposal can turn our region into an energy technology hub that has the potential to turn out advancements that will have national and global impacts. We are excited to get working on the next phase and thank Sen. Schumer and the Economic Development Administration for understanding and seeing the potential of this initiative.""

""When Stan Whittingham and Per Stromhaug discussed this proposal with me, it just made so much sense. With the appropriate support, we can become a national hub for battery innovation, manufacturing and workforce development,"" said President Harvey Stenger, Binghamton University. ""We thank Sen. Schumer for his support on this as well as all that he does for our University and we thank the EDA for understanding and supporting our vision and providing us the necessary resources to move this forward.""

Schumer said that the Build Back Better Regional Challenge received 529 Phase 1 applications from across the United States, and the New Energy NY project was one of 60 proposals selected as a Phase 1 awardee. Schumer emphasized that receiving this award and entering the competition for Phase 2 funding will shine a national spotlight on Binghamton and the Southern Tier as a rapidly growing battery-manufacturing hub, prime for investment and new jobs.

Schumer explained that specifically, funding through the EDA would be used in planning for a battery technology and manufacturing center hosted by Binghamton University, with a focus on further supporting economic resurgence in an underdeveloped area of the Southern Tier. In addition, the proposal would also build on regional programs to help spur entrepreneurship, climate justice, and workforce training through higher education partnerships. Project collaborators include a wide swath of the region’s universities, including Binghamton University, SUNY Broome, SUNY Corning Community College, Rochester Institute of Technology, as well as NY-BEST and other key stakeholders like IncubatorWorks, Clean Fight NY as well as county and state government entities.

The $1 billion Build Back Better Regional Challenge, funded by the American Rescue Plan that Schumer crafted and led to passage earlier this year, is designed to assist communities nationwide with accelerating economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, and building local economies that will be resilient to economic disruptions. The Build Back Better Regional Challenge is being implemented as a two-phase program. In Phase 1, the EDA will provide $500,000 technical assistance grants to a select group of awardees. Those selected as Phase 1 awardees will be considered “finalists” and the grants will be used by the finalists to prepare more detailed applications to compete for a Phase 2 federal grant to implement transformational projects that benefit their respective geographic regions and that are aligned around a holistic approach to building and scaling strategic industries. In Phase 2, the EDA will award 20-30 regional coalitions $25 million to $75 million, and up to $100 million, for selected projects to grow new regional industry clusters or scale existing ones through planning, infrastructure, innovation and entrepreneurship, workforce development, access to capital, and more.

A copy of Senator Schumer’s original letter of support for the New Energy New York proposal appears below:

Dear Secretary Raimondo,

I write in strong support of the joint “New Energy New York” proposal submitted by Binghamton University, SUNY Broome, Rochester Institute of Technology, and New York Battery and Energy Storage Technology (NY-BEST) to the U.S. Economic Development Administration Build Back Better Regional Challenge. This project is critical to the ongoing manufacturing and development of lithium-based batteries in the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes regions of Upstate New York.

Following the unprecedented challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, it is critical, now more than ever, that we continue our investment in strengthening the U.S.’s domestic energy supply chain. The proposed initiative seeks to facilitate this goal by expanding existing research, development, testing, and workforce assets to meet the increasing demand in the electric vehicle, battery, and stationary grid storage markets. The Southern Tier and Finger Lakes are home to a growing lithium ion manufacturing industry, with a gigafactory set to open in 2022 in Endicott, NY.

Specifically, funding through the EDA would help take essential steps in the planning for a battery technology and manufacturing center hosted by Binghamton University further supporting economic resurgence in an underdeveloped area of the Southern Tier. In addition, the proposal would also build on regional programs to help spur entrepreneurship, climate justice, and workforce training programs through higher education partners. The vast coalition assembled for this project speaks to the tremendous value and unwavering commitment of the community to bolstering this emerging manufacturing in Upstate NY.

I applaud Binghamton University, SUNY Broome, Rochester Institute of Technology, NY-BEST, and their regional partners for the ongoing role they continue to play in the economic development of the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes, and sincerely hope the application meets with your approval.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/following-his-direct-advocacy-schumer-announces-centerstates-smart-systems-cluster-selected-as-one-of-nations-first-awardees-for-phase-1-of-build-back-better-challenge-bringing-500k_and-a-national-spotlight-to-central-ny-and-the-mohawk-valley-as-a-rising-global-semiconductor-uas--quantum-computing-tech-hub-proposal-aims-to-create-5000-jobs-prime-white-pine-for-chips-investment--train-the-regions-workforce-for-emerging-tech-fields-,"FOLLOWING HIS DIRECT ADVOCACY, SCHUMER ANNOUNCES CENTERSTATE’S “SMART SYSTEMS CLUSTER” SELECTED AS ONE OF NATION’S FIRST AWARDEES FOR PHASE 1 OF BUILD BACK BETTER CHALLENGE, BRINGING $500K  AND A...",2021-12-13,2021,2021-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"BBB Regional Challenge Phase 1 Grant Will Provide $500,000 In Technical Assistance Funding To Develop Proposal To Bolster CNY Tech Economy And Allow Cluster To Compete In Exclusive Phase 2 For Up to $100 Million Grant To Transform Regional Economy

CenterState CEO’s Smart Systems Proposal Aims To Grow Central NY And Mohawk Valley Semiconductor And UAS Industries, Quantum Computing, STEAM Education And Training, And Boost Upstate Tech Ecosystem

Schumer: BBB Challenge Grant Is A Game Changer For CNY; Fed Award Will Be The Green Light CNY Needs To Attract Major Employers To Shovel Ready Sites & Become A Cutting Edge Global Tech Hub

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer announced that following his direct advocacy, the Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) has selected CenterState’s Smart Systems Cluster project as a finalist and Phase 1 awardee for investment through the American Rescue Plan’s Build Back Better Regional Challenge. Schumer said this means the project will receive $500,000 in technical assistance funds to develop its proposal to expand the region’s semiconductor manufacturing industry, grow existing UAS and quantum computing industries, create over 5,000 new jobs, train workers to enter in-demand fields, and make critical infrastructure updates to White Pine and Marcy Nanocenter to attract major employers and their supply chains. Schumer explained that as a finalist the project will have the exclusive opportunity to compete for up to a $100 million federal award to the region through the EDA to implement the proposed projects.

“This is BIG news for Central New York and the Mohawk Valley. Now, many more will see what I’ve long-known: Central New York has all the right ingredients to be a major national tech and semiconductor hub! This award will provide $500,000 the region to compete for the exclusive next phase of this major national competition, making CenterState Smart Systems Cluster eligible for an up to $100 million federal grant to put the region on the map as a global tech hub, primed for more growth and job creation in industries like semiconductor manufacturing, quantum computing and UAS,” said Senator Schumer. “This project would make critical investments in infrastructure to get sites like White Pine and the Marcy Nanocenter ready for investment by major employers, promote job training to deliver a topnotch workforce, and transition cutting edge research into new startup companies. I am proud to have fought for the EDA to select the Smart Systems Cluster in Central New York and the Mohawk Valley for the Build Back Better Challenge and will continue to fight to secure the final award and help them receive further federal investment to drive the Upstate economy into the future.”

“This region is uniquely positioned to accelerate it’s already strong growth trajectory as a smart cities hub through this investment. The Build Back Better program will enable us to leverage regional experience in cluster development to scale our support to existing Smart Systems industries and those looking to find growth within our region. Furthermore, this investment aligns with our vision of equitable progress through large-scale workforce training programs. These resources are being matched with strategies and expertise to ensure that progress is driven forward rapidly. This award validates that our region is poised for growth within the industry and highlights how we are well positioned to connect those growth opportunities to the resources and talent needed to succeed. We are incredibly grateful to Senator Schumer for his stalwart dedication to this community, and for his leadership and vision that made this program possible,” said CenterState CEO President & CEO Rob Simpson.

Schumer said that the Build Back Better Regional Challenge received 529 Phase 1 applications from across the United States, and CenterState’s Smart Systems Cluster was one of 60 proposals selected as a Phase 1 awardee. Receiving this award will shine a national spotlight on Central New York and the Mohawk Valley as a rapidly emerging tech hub in the semiconductor, quantum computing, UAS and other critical tech industries.

Schumer explained that the CenterState NY Smart Systems Cluster proposal focuses on eight priority projects for accelerating innovation and growth in Upstate New York:

White Pine Commerce Park Infrastructure Improvements And Expansion

Marcy Nanocenter Flex Space Development (semiconductor supply chain)

Oswego County Industrial Park Expansion (semiconductor supply chain)

UAS Infrastructure Enhancements At The New York UAS Test Site

Centerstate CEO Tech Garden High-Tech Business Incubator Expansion in Downtown Syracuse To Attract Start Ups

Advanced Manufacturing Training With Educational Institutions To Build A Workforce Pipeline For In Demand Jobs

Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics or STEAM Education School At A Renovated High School In Downtown Syracuse To Address Tech Skills Gaps And Train Youth For Jobs

Quantum Computing Research Investment And Infrastructure at Rome Lab’s Innovare Advancement Center

The project is backed by major regional stakeholders including CenterState CEO (lead), Central New York Regional Planning and Development Board (CNYRPDB), Onondaga County, Oneida County, Oswego County, the City of Syracuse, Mohawk Valley EDGE, Rome Lab’s Innovare Advancement Center, Griffiss Institute, the Northeast UAS Airspace Integration Research Alliance (NUAIR), SUNY Upstate, Syracuse University, SUNY Morrisville, Onondaga Community College, Cayuga Community College, Mohawk Valley Community College, Syracuse City School District, OCM BOCES, Operation Oswego County and more. Schumer said this vast coalition speaks to the tremendous value the project holds for the community and broad support for seeing the area emerge as a regional tech hub.

The $1 billion Build Back Better Regional Challenge, funded by the American Rescue Plan that Schumer crafted and led to passage earlier this year, is designed to assist communities nationwide, with accelerating economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, and building local economies that will be resilient to economic disruptions. The Build Back Better Regional Challenge is being implemented as a two phase program. In Phase 1, the EDA will provide $500,000 technical assistance grants to a select group of awardees. Those selected as Phase 1 awardees will be considered “finalists” and the grants will be used by the finalists to prepare more detailed applications to compete for a Phase 2 federal grant to implement transformational projects that benefit their respective geographic regions and that are aligned around a holistic approach to building and scaling strategic industries. In Phase 2, the EDA will award 20-30 regional coalitions $25 million to $75 million, and up to $100 million, for selected projects to grow new regional industry clusters or scale existing ones through planning, infrastructure, innovation and entrepreneurship, workforce development, access to capital, and more.

A copy of Senator Schumer’s original letter of support for Centerstate Smart Systems appears below:

Dear Secretary Raimondo:

I am pleased to write in support of the application submitted by CenterState CEO to the Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration’s (EDA) Build Back Better grant program.

Serving as the Lead Institution, CenterState CEO is joined by Cayuga Community College, the City of Syracuse, the CNY Regional Planning and Development Board (CNY RPDB), the Griffiss Institute, Mohawk Valley Community College, Mohawk Valley EDGE, the Northeast UAS Airspace Integration Research Alliance (NUAIR), OCM BOCES, Onondaga Community College, Onondaga County, Oswego County, SUNY Educational Opportunity Center (EOC), SUNY Upstate Medical University, the Syracuse City School District, and Syracuse University. Each partner organization will also work within their existing networks to engage established and newly identified partners in the region.

This coalition has already identified and carefully vetted eight priority projects for the CenterState NY Smart Systems Cluster. With funding, the CenterState NY Smart Systems Cluster will; support infrastructure investments at the White Pine Megasite, build a flex space facility at Marcy Nanocenter at SUNY Polytechnic Institute, expand a shovel-ready site in Oswego County Industrial Park to drive Oswego County supply chain readiness, expand the CenterState CEO Tech Garden high-tech business incubator to attract additional startups, continue development of UAS infrastructure around the New York State UAS Test Site, launch smart systems cluster advanced training consortium to build a training pipeline for career opportunities in advanced manufacturing, renovate a historic high school in downtown Syracuse to address the tech skills gap and provide Career & Technical Education (CTE), and invest in quantum computing research and infrastructure.

I applaud CenterState CEO and partners for their foresight and sincerely hope the application meets with your approval.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/following-his-direct-advocacy-schumer-announces-western-new-york-advanced-manufacturing-cluster-selected-as-one-of-nations-first-awardees-for-phase-one-of-build-back-better-challenge-bringing-500k-and-a-national-spotlight-to-buffalo-and-wny-as-a-manufacturing-hub-putting-the-project-in-the-running-for-up-to-100-million-federal-investment-,"FOLLOWING HIS DIRECT ADVOCACY, SCHUMER ANNOUNCES WESTERN NEW YORK ADVANCED MANUFACTURING CLUSTER SELECTED AS ONE OF NATION’S FIRST AWARDEES FOR PHASE ONE OF BUILD BACK BETTER CHALLENGE, BRINGING $500K...",2021-12-13,2021,2021-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"BBB Regional Challenge Phase 1 Grant Will Provide $500,000 In Technical Assistance Funding To Develop Proposal To Bolster WNY Advanced Manufacturing Sector And Allow Cluster To Compete In Exclusive Phase 2 For Up to $100 Million Grant To Transform The Western NY Economy

Western New York Advanced Manufacturing Cluster Would Scale Up Innovation, Advance Inclusive Workforce Development, And Develop Infrastructure To Rapidly Expand The Growing Advanced Manufacturing Sector In WNY

Schumer: WNY’s Selection As One Of Nation’s First BBB Challenge Finalists Is A Game Changer—One Step Closer To Making WNY A Global Tech Hub!

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer announced that following his direct advocacy the Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) has selected the Western New York Advanced Manufacturing Cluster as a finalist and Phase 1 awardee for investment through the American Rescue Plan’s Build Back Better Regional Challenge. Schumer said this means the project will receive $500,000 in technical assistance funds to develop its proposal to scale up Western NY’s advanced manufacturing infrastructure, spark innovation, and enhance workforce development programs. Schumer explained that as a finalist the project will have the exclusive opportunity to compete for up to a $100 million federal award to the region through the EDA to implement the proposed projects.

“This is BIG news for Buffalo and the entire WNY region. Now, many more will see what I’ve long known: Western New York has all the right ingredients to be the nation’s next tech hub! This award will provide $500,000 to the region to compete for the exclusive next phase of this major national competition, making the Western NY Advanced Manufacturing Cluster proposal eligible for an up to $100 million federal grant to revolutionize the region’s manufacturing sector, revitalize Buffalo’s East Side, and train the next generation for good paying jobs,” said Senator Schumer. “I am proud to have fought to ensure the WNY Advanced Manufacturing Cluster was selected by EDA as a finalist for the Build Back Better Challenge and will continue to fight to secure the final award and receive further federal investment to drive the Upstate economy into the future and solidify WNY’s place as the advanced manufacturing epicenter of the US.”

Schumer said that the Build Back Better Regional Challenge received 529 Phase 1 applications from across the United States, and the WNY Advanced Manufacturing Cluster was one of 60 proposals selected as a Phase 1 awardee. Receiving this award and entering the competition for Phase 2 funding will shine a national spotlight on Buffalo and Western New York as a rapidly growing advanced manufacturing hub.

Schumer explained that the Western New York Advanced Manufacturing Cluster proposal, submitted by the Western New York Regional Economic Development Council, would help train over 1,600 individuals for a career in tech over a 3-year period. The project would also work to fill gaps in the Western NY innovation ecosystem that will enable the region to become a national hub in key industries like vaccine production, utility infrastructure components, industrial gases, and precision motion control. The project would also reverse environmental degradation left by the region’s industrial past by cleaning up and revitalizing properties, including parts of Buffalo’s East Side, to attract new investment and create new jobs. The proposal also focuses on developing a more diverse, highly skilled workforce to meet the needs of growing employers and expand opportunity for more workers to access high-paying jobs. The project is supported by a vast coalition including the University at Buffalo, Buffalo Niagara Partnership, Invest Buffalo Niagara, Launch NY, Buffalo Manufacturing Works, Northland Workforce Training Center, Goodwill of Western New York, SUNY Alfred, the Buffalo Urban Development Corporation, and many more.

The $1 billion Build Back Better Regional Challenge, funded by the American Rescue Plan that Schumer crafted and led to passage earlier this year, is designed to assist communities nationwide, with accelerating economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, and building local economies that will be resilient to economic disruptions. The Build Back Better Regional Challenge is being implemented as a two phase program. In Phase 1, the EDA will provide $500,000 technical assistance grants to a select group of awardees. Those selected as Phase 1 awardees will be considered “finalists” and the grants will be used by the finalists to prepare more detailed applications to compete for a Phase 2 federal grant to implement transformational projects that benefit their respective geographic regions and that are aligned around a holistic approach to building and scaling strategic industries. In Phase 2, the EDA will award 20-30 regional coalitions $25 million to $75 million, and up to $100 million, for selected projects to grow new regional industry clusters or scale existing ones through planning, infrastructure, innovation and entrepreneurship, workforce development, access to capital, and more.

A copy of Senator Schumer’s original letter of support for the Western New York Advanced Manufacturing Cluster appears below:

Dear Secretary Raimondo:

I am pleased to write in support of the application submitted by the Western New York Regional Economic Development Council (WNY REDC) to the Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration’s (EDA) Build Back Better grant program.

In 2011, the five westernmost counties of New York State formed a broad-based coalition as the WNY REDC. This coalition of government, business and community leaders quickly developed “A Strategy for Prosperity,” a regional economic development plan for targeted economic development. Since, WNY REDC partners have collaborated on: improved advanced manufacturing competitiveness; increased innovation through access to applied research and scaled testing facilities; improved productivity through the adoption of increased export assistance; prepared formerly industrial and manufacturing sites for expansion; grew an appropriately skilled workforce to meet advanced manufacturing labor needs.

With funding, WNY REDC, working with a diverse coalition of partners and secured matching funds of over $147,000,000, will pursue a range of projects including innovation and manufacturing, workforce development and infrastructure to support the region.

I applaud Western New York Regional Economic Development Council their foresight and

sincerely hope the application meets with your approval.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-announces-transit-supercharge-for-critical-nyc/bronx/long-island-projects-penn-access-creating-one-seat-ride-to-penn-and-4-new-bx-stations-will-be-fast-tracked_lirr-east-river-tunnels--will-get-rehabed-for-safe-commute-under-schumer-deal-amtrak-will-also-commit-additional-500-million-to-penn-access-in-exchange-for-mtas-432-million-for-east-river-tunnels,"SCHUMER ANNOUNCES TRANSIT SUPERCHARGE FOR CRITICAL NYC/BRONX/LONG ISLAND PROJECTS; PENN ACCESS, CREATING ONE-SEAT RIDE TO PENN & 4 NEW BX STATIONS, WILL BE FAST-TRACKED & LIRR EAST RIVER TUNNELS ,...",2021-12-13,2021,2021-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Schumer Led Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Package Through Senate To Create A Record $30B Account NY Transit Projects Will Now Tap; Will Allow Fast-Track and Resources for Penn Access & East River Tunnels (ERT); Previous ‘Clash’ Over $432 Million For ERT Now Solved As Badly-Damaged Sandy Tunnels Poised For Work

Meanwhile, Penn Access Supercharging Will Create One-Seat Train Ride For East, South Bronx & Westchester to Penn, 4 NEW Bronx Stations; Reduced Travel Time, Access To Major Job Market & Overall Convenience Will Help Drive Transportation Relief For Countless NY Commuters

Schumer: A Transit Supercharge Is Coming To NYC, The Bronx, Westchester & LI – And It Means Billions In Investment Along With Jobs

Announcing a ‘transit supercharge’ for two critical New York City, Bronx, Westchester and Long Island transportation projects --Penn Access and the East River Tunnels— U.S. Senator Charles Schumer detailed the deal he just brokered between the MTA and Amtrak to make substantial breakthroughs and progress on both projects.

Schumer said that because the Bipartisan Infrastructure and Jobs Bill passed the Senate, he was able to leverage new funding for Penn Access and the LIRR’s East River Tunnels (ERT). Schumer negotiated the deal between Amtrak and the MTA to advance both Penn Access, and its new rail line for transit-needy South and East Bronx, and the East River Tunnel rehab work, which is so vital to the hundreds of thousands of LIRR commuters.

“Critical New York City, Bronx and Long Island transit projects are getting supercharged today,” said U.S. Senator Charles Schumer. “Today’s agreement with Amtrak and the MTA will fast-track Penn Access, bringing a new mass transit line to the transit-starved Bronx, totaling four new stations. In addition, the agreement will break the logjam stalling the urgent need to repair and upgrade the Sandy-damaged East River Tunnels, which are vital to LIRR riders. Under the deal I brokered, which was made possible by the historic rail finding we delivered in the Bipartisan Infrastructure and Jobs Law, Amtrak will commit a huge, $500 million investment to the Penn Access new Metro North line in the Bronx. And the MTA will commit up to a massive $432 million in rehabbing the East River Tunnels, which were badly-damaged during Sandy and have been a priority project for me and for the hundreds of thousands of Long Islanders who depend on them every single day.”

“So, we have two critical projects: Penn Access, for the people of the Bronx and Westchester, and the East River Tunnels, for the people of Long Island, that will get fast-tracked, supercharged and move Forward with historic investment, and that is something to celebrate,” Schumer added.

Schumer said, the longtime ‘clash’ over the ERT’s $432M is now solved. Schumer further revealed that there is now a $30 billion dollar in federal rail funding for the Northeast, which he secured in the Bipartisan Infrastructure law, that both projects can tap to get their work complete, and said he will push for both of these projects to receive maximum federal rail grants from programs funded in the Bipartisan Infrastructure law. In terms of the two projects, Schumer detailed their timelines and construction specifics as he officially declared these two important projects ‘supercharged.’

Schumer has long advocated for both the Metro-North Penn Access project and for repairing the East River Tunnels, which were badly damaged during Hurricane Sandy flooding. The former is an MTA-led project while the latter is being spearheaded by Amtrak. In detailing the $30 billion federal funds now available to New York, Schumer said the $6 billion he secured in the BIF for Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor account plus the $24 billion in FRA Federal-State Partnership Northeast Corridor grants, unlocked the ability for both agencies to pursue both projects—but only if they could come to an agreement.

Schumer said an agreement was needed because Amtrak is the owner of the East River Tunnels and the stretch of track Metro-North seeks to use for Penn Access, but MTA LIRR is a significant user of the East River Tunnels and MTA Metro-North is the sponsor and lead on the Penn Access project.

“Like the transit system itself, this was all a little complicated, but also clear in terms of what needed to be done, so I signaled green-lights all the way in my negotiations, because we had to get going and act on both projects,” Schumer said of his sit downs with both Amtrak and the MTA.

When it comes specifically to Penn Access, Schumer added, “I have long supported the effort to expand transit access to the people of the East and South Bronx, as well as southern Westchester, by establishing new Metro North stops along the existing Amtrak line. I stood in Co-Op City with local leaders and called on Amtrak and Metro-North to come to the negotiating table and hammer out the framework for this urgently-needed project, and since then I have secured more billions in federal funding for the MTA to continue their capital projects in spite of the COVID pandemic drop in ridership. But now, we have even more funds from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill and we will use them here and now to prioritize projects like Penn Station Access that increase racial and socioeconomic equity in our transit system.”

As part of his deal, Schumer got Amtrak to commit $500 million for the Penn Access project, and, in turn, the MTA committed up to $432 million for the East River Tunnel (ERT) project, which is the exact amount that has been in contention since at least October of 2019, according to Newsday. With these commitments secured by Schumer both projects can now advance.

Schumer said, with Amtrak’s commitment, the MTA board will now be in a position to award a contract for construction of Penn Access imminently. And with MTA’s commitment on ERT, Schumer said the framework now exists for Amtrak to advance an application to FRA to apply for $24 billon pot of funds to repair the East River Tunnels. The ERT agreement means that if the ERT project is awarded an 80% federal share from the FRA grant program, MTA and NJT will cover the rest of the local share. Both Penn Access and ERT will pursue FRA Federal-State Partnership grants to reduce the local and Amtrak shares and Schumer is extremely confident they will be awarded federal funds.

SCHUMER’S PROJECT DETAILS:

Schumer said the East River Tunnels are a critical part of the transportation system across Long Island and in the New York metro area, carrying more than 300,000 passengers daily. Despite being maintained and operated by Amtrak, the four single track tunnels are a shared regional asset and provide invaluable service to both the railroad and major regional transit agencies. Superstorm Sandy badly damaged the East River Tunnels with approximately 14 million gallons of floodwaters. According to Amtrak reports, corrosive salts and chlorides from the storm continue to impact the tunnels' underground structures. Over time, delays and breakdowns involving the East River Tunnels have increased and Schumer said that this problem will undoubtedly get worse if repairs are not made.

“The East River Tunnels are the most important link in the commute of hundreds of thousands of Long Islanders and a problem in one tunnel---like we have seen in the past—creates a nightmarish domino effect for the entire LIRR system, and that’s not acceptable, and now it will be addressed,” Schumer added.

""Our city and our borough is long due for an overhaul of its mass transit systems. The agreement made possible by Leader Schumer will finally ensure the Bronx has increased access to the rest of New York City and Westchester with four new Metro North stations. This historic investment will bring working and historically underserved families shorter commute times as well as much needed access to jobs, healthcare, and education. New Yorkers deserve reliable mass transit and I look forward to working with Leader Schumer to ensure our city's transit system is both accessible and equitable for all commuters,"" said Rep. Torres.

“This deal to advance Metro-North Penn Access and expand rail lines in the Bronx, such as in Co-op City, is critical,” said Congressman Jamaal Bowman (NY-16). “We need transit justice and funding for these projects brings us one step closer to achieving that. I am honored to join Senator Chuck Schumer in working to bring more commuter options to the Bronx connecting through Penn station. I will also work to further support this project as needed in Congress so that we can create more cleaner, convenient options for constituents in the Bronx, including working to ensure working class commuters aren’t burdened with the high cost of access to transit options.”

""New York can't fully recover from the pandemic without our transit agencies effectively and efficiently moving millions of people around the region each day,"" Governor Hochul said. ""Today's announcement is a critical step forward as we work to transform New York's transportation system into a model for the 21st century, and I want to thank Senate Majority Leader Schumer for his leadership and partnership to advance these important infrastructure priorities.""?

“We are fortunate to have Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer fighting to deliver a ‘transit supercharge’ for Penn Access and the East River Tunnels. I’ve been a strong supporter of the need for greater connectivity between Westchester and the East Side. This will have a positive impact on workers and commuters in Westchester, especially as more people return to the office. I also stand strongly with Senator Schumer in advocating for these projects to receive the maximum federal rail grants available as part of the historic Bipartisan Infrastructure bill that he delivered for New Yorkers,” Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins said.

“The Metro-North Penn Access project is incredibly important for communities here in the Bronx that are underserved by public transportation,” Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie said. “Building these four new train stations will change people’s lives for the better - making it easier for people to get to work, to school and to go about their daily lives. The Assembly Majority has fought to get communities that are underserved access to public transit, including putting $250 million into the state budget for Penn Access. Thank you to Senator Schumer for working with the MTA to make this a reality.”

“Senator Schumer has secured an astonishing $500 million investment from Amtrak for Penn Access to address the transit deserts in the East and South Bronx,” said Assemblymember Karines Reyes. “The supercharged Metro North expansion, set to finish in 2027, will bring four new stations to the Bronx, expanding access to downtown and Westchester County. This rollout not only confronts the socioeconomic inequality that Bronxites face, but also tackles climate concerns with new mass transit alternatives to driving.”

“Many of my Bronx constituents rely heavily on public transportation for their daily commutes,” said Assemblymember Kenny Burgos. “Unfortunately, lack of transit options have made it difficult for everyday Bronxites. Fast-tracking Penn Access will transform the Bronx and make the lives of its residents much easier. I applaud Senator Schumer for his tireless efforts in ensuring resources that will make public transportation more accessible for our borough.”

“I applaud Senator Schumer’s record efforts in Washington, earmarking roughly $500M to adding critical transit infrastructure in the Bronx, via the new MTA Penn Access line—including stations in my own council district such as Morris Park and Van Nest/Parkchester,” said NYC Councilmember Mark Gjonaj. “Direct lines to Penn Station will afford a wealth of new work and recreational opportunities to Bronxites, many of whom feel they have too few transit options available. The more mobile we can make our constituency, the more prosperous they can become.”

“The Bronx has long been at a disadvantage when it comes to transportation access, but with the new funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill that was passed in the US Senate, riders in Co-Op City, Morris Park, Parkchester/Van Nest and Hunts Point will now have an alternative to driving to get to their destination,” said Council Member & BP-Elect Vanessa L. Gibson. The Metro North expansion in the Bronx will also be a game changer with economic development opportunities and infrastructure investments that are sorely needed in our borough as we attempt to recover from the devastating impact COVID-19 had on our borough. I want to thank our Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and the entire New York Delegation for their commitment to fighting for transportation equity for all New Yorkers and I look forward to seeing this important project come to fruition as the next Bronx Borough President.”

“Today’s announcement from Senator Schumer’s office in partnership with Amtrak and the MTA is great news for the people of the Bronx and District 13,” said NYC Councilmember-Elect Marjorie Velasquez. The Metro-North expansion will not only be a great first step in providing our community with increased transportation access, but a much needed influx of jobs and other investment. My profound thanks to Senator Schumer and everyone involved for advocating on behalf of the people of New York in securing this investment. The Bronx is Building Back Better.”

Gerard Bringmann, chair of the LIRR Commuter Council and MTA Board member said, ""The East River Tunnels provide a critical connection that allow millions of riders to travel through Queens into Manhattan. Whether they start their journey on the LIRR from Long Island, or will travel on Metro-North on the newly-funded Penn Access from the Bronx, Westchester or points further north, or come in via Amtrak, commuters count on the essential portals to get to midtown Manhattan. Thank you Senator Schumer for always keeping commuters first and helping New York build back better, and stronger.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/for-the-first-time-as-us-senate-majority-leader-and-in-the-midst-of-a-global-pandemic-schumer-completes-tour-of-all-62-new-york-counties-senator-calls-this-tour-the-most-meaningful-and-consequential-of-his-career-after-delivering-over-130-billion-for-ny-this-year-schumer-finishes-tour-of-all-62-counties-this-weekend-with-almost-100-visits-to-upstate-ny_long-island-,FOR THE FIRST TIME AS U.S. SENATE MAJORITY LEADER & IN THE MIDST OF A GLOBAL PANDEMIC —SCHUMER COMPLETES TOUR OF ALL 62 NEW YORK COUNTIES; SENATOR CALLS THIS TOUR THE MOST MEANINGFUL AND CONSEQUENTIAL...,2021-12-12,2021,2021-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"For 23rd Consecutive Year, Schumer Visits Every Single New York County—Yet At The Close Of 23 Years, This Year, As Majority Leader In The Midst Of A Global Pandemic, Schumer Calls This One The Most Consequential

Schumer Has Always Staunchly Believed That Visiting Every Single NY County Is Imperative To His Daily Work In The U.S. Capitol, This Year – As He Worked To Pass Historic Legislation Bringing Billions To NY–Was More Important Than Ever To See Firsthand What NY Needs To Build Back From COVID

Schumer: New Title, But My Favorite Is Still ‘New Yorker’

Even as Majority Leader, in the midst of a global pandemic, and while leading some of the biggest & boldest legislation in our country’s history, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer today completed his 23rd consecutive tour of all 62 New York State counties. Schumer was the first New York State public official to visit every single county in New York, an accomplishment he holds proudly, and a tradition he has continued each year he has been in office.

Over the course of the year, Schumer made 93 county visits to Upstate New York and Long Island. He visited counties in the Capital Region 14 times; Western New York 7 times; Central New York 10 times; the Rochester-Finger Lakes 14 times; the Southern Tier 10 times; the Hudson Valley 14 times; the North Country 9 times; and Long Island 15 times. In addition, due to COVID travel restrictions, which greatly reduced the number and frequency of visits this year, Senator Schumer also conducted countless virtual meetings with groups and residents across New York.

“Twenty-three years ago when I made the promise to visit every county every year, never in my wildest dreams did I imagine doing it as Majority Leader, let alone in the midst of a global health and economic pandemic. Although I’ve gained a new title as Majority Leader this year, my favorite two remain: New York senator, and more importantly, New Yorker,” said Majority Leader Schumer. “Now, as New York’s first Senate Majority Leader, this mission has become even more vital and allowed me to deliver for my beloved home state in bigger and better ways because of all I learn from my constituents. As New York continues to feel the impacts of a global health pandemic, visiting all 62 counties pushed me to fight even harder to help New Yorkers recover and build back stronger. Over this year, much has changed – the American Rescue Plan I led to passage provided New York the robust COVID relief needed to help jump start our recovery. To name but two elements, we passed a historic Childhood Tax Credit that cut child poverty in half, and we passed billions for Save Our Stages, which provided a vital lifeline to all our cultural organizations and performance spaces that were the first to close and last to open. We passed the largest investment in infrastructure in our nation’s history, which will repair and upgrade New York’s road, bridges, highways, transportation, broadband, and water systems like never before. This year, more than ever before, I was reminded how resilient New Yorkers are. New Yorkers have experienced tremendous hardship, from 9/11 to Superstorm Sandy to COVID, but time and time again, we are resilient, even in our darkest days, and we rebuild and come back stronger than ever.”

Schumer added, “At the close of twenty-three years, my beliefs are as clear as ever: ‘Senators who stay in Washington and never return home are simply not doing their job.’ That’s why I bike the streets and go to all of the parades, graduations, and occasionally crash a neighbor’s block party for a plate. Whether I’m at the State Fair in Syracuse or wearing my ‘Ithaca is Gorges’ mask, New York is always on my mind, and I’m always learning more about New York directly from my constituents.”

Some of the key highlights include:

NEW YORK STATE

Delivered BIG For New York With $100 Billion For New York In COVID Relief Through The American Rescue Plan and $27+Billion Through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act. As Majority Leader, and the chief negotiator in the Senate, Schumer worked nonstop to deliver a plan that best provided robust relief to New York’s local leaders, workers, small businesses, and health centers so they could recover from the impacts of COVID and build back stronger than before.

Senator Schumer delivered substantial relief for New York over the past year:

Over $23.8 Billion In Fiscal Relief For NY’s State And Local Governments:

Delivering on his promise of robust relief for New York State, as part of the American Rescue Plan, Senator Schumer ensured New York State, New York City, and every municipal government from counties to towns to the smallest villages could pay for essential services, retain vital frontline workers, offset lost revenues and increased costs from the COVID-19 emergency, and rebuild local economies.

Nearly $4.2 billion More For New York’s Medicaid Program:

Senator Schumer’s hard-won provision in the Families First Coronavirus Response Act continued to deliver an estimated $4.2 billion to New York’s Medicaid program throughout 2021. These funds have helped the state continue to provide high quality health care at low costs to ~6.8 million low-income New Yorkers.

Over $1.26 Billion More For Home-And-Community Based Services:

Senator Schumer included one year of enhanced federal funding for home- and community-based health care services that has delivered over $1.26 billion in direct funding to New York. This money has gone to support seniors and people with disabilities receive the care they need, at home or in their community if they so choose, by expanding the availability of services and increasing the types of services offered across the state.

Over $13.5 Billion For NYS Hospitals, Health Systems, Community Health Centers, And Other Providers:

Following his leadership in creating the Provider Relief Fund, Senator Schumer has fought to deliver over $13.5 billion to New York health care providers through the COVID-19 pandemic with billions more on the way before the end of 2021. This money has assisted local hospitals, health centers, physician offices and more test, diagnose, and treat patients with COVID-19 and mitigated the massive financial losses incurred by our health system driven by pandemic-related costs and lost revenues.

Over $330 Million To Support NYS’s COVID-19 Testing Infrastructure:

Senator Schumer fought for and secured over $1.1 billion through the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 and another $330 billion through the American Rescue Plan to expand and enhance New York’s COVID-19 testing and tracing infrastructure. This critical component of our national response to the pandemic has helped curb the spread of the coronavirus in New York and saved lives.

$175 Million For COVID-19 Vaccines For New Yorkers:

As part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, Senator Schumer delivered over $175 million in direct funding to New York that has resulted in over 80% of eligible New Yorkers receiving at least one vaccine shot including 69% who are fully vaccinated.

$170 Million In Substance Abuse And Mental Health

Delivered $22 Billion In Direct Stimulus Payments To New Yorkers:

Senator Schumer pushed hard to include an additional round of Economic Impact Payments of $1,400 in the American Rescue Plan, including eligible payments for children, amounting to $5,600 for an average family of four. Because of Schumer’s efforts, nearly 9 million New York households received direct stimulus payments to help them to cover essential expenses like food, rent or mortgages, and medical bills, as well as help spur economic activity in their communities.

Secured Estimated $18.4 Billion For New York Transit:

As commuters and riders stayed at home during the pandemic, transit ridership fell while agencies needed to keep service running for essential workers and those who depend on transit. Increased cleaning frequencies and reduced ridership led to higher operating costs. Senator Schumer secured $7.3 billion for New York transit systems in the ARP to help agencies bridge the gap. He then secured an estimated $11.1 billion for New York transit agencies over five years, a significant increase over the previous transportation law, so that transit can continue to build back better as it recovers from the pandemic.

More Than $1.3 Billion For New York Airports:

The travel industry was among one of the hardest hit by the pandemic. Senator Schumer fought to include over $418 million in the ARP to provide New York’s hard-hit airports the relief they desperately needed. Then, building on his advocacy Schumer followed this relief by securing an additional investment of over $937 million through the IIJA to airports to help NY’s airport take off and reach new heights.

Secured $11.5 Billion In Highway Funding For New York Over The Next 5 Years:

This includes $289 million for Transportation Alternatives, such as walking and biking funding and an estimated $1.9 billion in formula funding for a new bridge replacement program. In his commitment to addressing climate change, Schumer secured $175 million for a new National Electric Vehicle formula program and $239 million for the PROTECT formula program to build and rebuild transportation assets with resiliency in mind.

Over $9 Billion In COVID Relief For New York K-12 Schools:

Senator Schumer made it a top priority to give our schools the robust and flexible funds they needed to reopen safely for in-person instruction and address the diverse needs of students due to the pandemic.

$2.6 Billion For NY Colleges, Universities, And Students To Recover From Pandemic:

Higher education institutions were on the frontlines of preventing the spread of COVID-19 and ripped massive holes in their budgets to keep students and communities safe. Senator Schumer ensured not only to include relief to account for reopening costs, revenue losses, classroom retrofits, PPE, and other expenses, but also that half of any colleges’ federal allocation went directly to students to address hardships caused by COVID-19.

$428 Million For NY’s Drinking Water And Clean Water State Revolving Funds:

A long time clean water advocate, Senator Schumer worked hard to bolster this funding for NY in the IIJA. Schumer said this massive boon for New York’s water infrastructure and environment would accelerate New York’s ongoing efforts to remove lead pipes and clean up emerging contaminates – like PFAs.

Over $7 Billion In Historic Child Tax Credit (CTC) For NY Families:

Almost 90% of all New York families benefited from Senator Schumer’s tireless fight to expand the Child Tax Credit, allowing 86% of families across the state to get $300 automatic payments each month.

More Than $54 Billion In COVID Relief To Support New York’s Small Businesses And Nonprofits:

Schumer delivered over $54 billion in federal forgivable loans through the Small Business Administration’s Paycheck Protection Program and grants and low-interest loans through Economic Injury Disaster Loan program, supporting hundreds of thousands of New York’s small businesses and nonprofits. Schumer fought to include nonprofits in these programs, including religious organizations and large nonprofits that provide critical services to communities through the state.

More Than $500 Million From The American Rescue Plan’s State Small Business Credit Initiative:

These funds will help expand access to credit and investment for small businesses and start-ups, including minority-owned and other disadvantaged businesses, across the state to grow, create jobs, and strengthen Main Streets.

Over $3.6 Billion In Relief Delivered To More Than 9,700 New York Restaurants:

Schumer fought to include an initial infusion of funds in the American Rescue Plan to stand up a dedicated relief program to provide flexible grants to support the state’s hard-hit restaurant industry.

More Than $1.9 Billion Was Awarded To New York Through The Shuttered Venue Operators Grant, Otherwise Known As The ‘Save Our Stages’ Program:

Schumer led the effort to pass this critical lifeline for the cultural arts industry into law. This funding was awarded to more than 1,400 theaters, independent music venues and comedy clubs, independent movie theaters, and cultural institutions like museums and zoos across the state, bringing Broadway back and helping New York’s cultural treasures in every corner of the state keep the light and laughs on.

Over $44.9 Million From The Economic Development Administration (EDA) From The American Rescue Plan Directly Awarded To New York:

Schumer prioritized dedicated relief to revive New Yok’s tourism and travel industry in the American Rescue Plan. These EDA funds support marketing, infrastructure, workforce, and other projects to rebuild New York’s travel, tourism, and outdoor recreation economy, so New York is ready to welcome the world back to the state as we emerge from the worst of the pandemic.

Over $130 Million For New Yorkers Who Lost A Loved One To COVID In FEMA Funeral And Cemetery Expenses Reimbursement:

After tireless advocacy, starting in the very early days of COVID, Senator Schumer secured access to a rarely used FEMA program that reimburses individuals who lost a loved one to COVID and helped cover the funeral and cemetery costs. With the loved ones of over 19,000 New Yorkers lost to COVID already reimbursed, and about $1.5 billion provided across the country, this program has helped New Yorkers across the state in their darkest hour. This assistance is available for anyone who lost a loved one to COVID and had to bear this unexpected expense. You can find out more by calling: 844-684-6333

Almost Half-A-Billion Dollars To Help New Yorkers Recover And Rebuild Three Months After Hurricane Ida Struck New York:

When Hurricane Ida hit New York in September, it left thousands of New Yorkers reeling. Now, three months later, close to 36,000 New Yorkers from the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, Dutchess, Nassau, Orange, Rockland, Suffolk, and Westchester counties have been approved for FEMA’s individual assistance program. Combined with funding provided through the US Small Business Administration and the National Flood Insurance Program, these federal lifelines have provided almost half-a-billion dollars to help rebuild, and rebuild stronger. Applications are still open, currently until January 4, 2022, and you can apply if you were impacted by Hurricane Ida at DisasterAssistance.gov

WESTERN NEW YORK

Senator Schumer delivered substantial relief for Western NY over the past year:

Over $873 million in aid to Buffalo and Western NY local governments

Over 550 Western NY restaurants received over $109 million through the Restaurant Revitalization Fund

Over $42 million for shuttered venues in Western NY like Shea’s Performing Arts Center and the National Comedy Center

$204 million for higher education institutions like the University at Buffalo, Niagara University, and more

Airports in Western NY received over $68.9 million

Throughout the pandemic, 33,000 businesses in the Western NY region have received over $3.34 billion in PPP funds

Dramatically Expanded The Child Tax Credit And Instituted Monthly Payments For 85% Of Western New York Families Which Amounted To $77 Million:

As part of the Child Tax Credit (CTC) expansion, Senator Schumer was able to secure an increase in the number of eligible families and authorized monthly disbursements of Child Tax Credits. With 85% of Western New York families eligible for this groundbreaking program, Schumer noted that it was especially significant in the City of Buffalo, which has one of the nation’s highest poverty rates and as many as 25,000 children living in poverty. As many as 107,000 households in the Greater Buffalo-Niagara region benefit from the strengthened credit.

Finally Orchestrated The Implementation Of The Pilot Record Database Following The Advocacy Of The 3407 Families:

In December, the Pilot Record Database being kept by the FAA finally went live, enabling airlines to have a thorough record of the training history and service record of each current and prospective pilot. This database, a longtime Schumer priority, was first proposed following the successful advocacy of the families of the victims of Flight 3407. While the database was supposed to be created years ago, bureaucratic red tape and administrative inaction led to the database languishing in development. Schumer was able to cut through the red tape and convinced DOT officials to finally get the program up and running.

Recommended The Nomination Of Trini Ross To Be The First African American Woman For US Attorney In Buffalo:

Schumer recommended Trini Ross to President Biden for nomination as United States Attorney for the Western District of New York. Ms. Ross is a lifelong Buffalonian, a graduate of Hutchinson Technical High School, SUNY Fredonia, and UB Law. She is an experienced prosecutor and was unanimously confirmed by the Senate. Ms. Ross is also the first African American woman to serve as the WDNY’s top federal prosecutor. She assumed her position in November of this year.

Secured $1 Billion - The Largest Single Allocation In The History Of The Great Lakes Restoration Initiative:

Senator Schumer was able to include a $1 billion allocation to fully fund the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) in the bipartisan infrastructure deal. Specifically, this funding was secured to protect, improve, and preserve the Great Lakes and their related waterways, which include the Niagara River, Buffalo Creek, and many other areas along the Western New York shoreline. This funding is utilized by 16 different agencies and often works through local organizations like Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper. Schumer also noted the economic impact of the Great Lakes, adding that for every dollar invested in Great Lakes protection, the return on investment is $3.35, or 335%.

Saw To It That Western New York Students Were Fairly Compensated For AP Exams That Went Missing:

After taking their Advanced Placement exams, some students at Startpoint High School in Lockport were informed that UPS had lost the box of exams on their way to be scored by College Board. Schumer intervened with both College Board and UPS and ensured that the tests were found and the students were fairly compensated and were also awarded $250 scholarships.

Bolstered Western New York’s Transportation Infrastructure By Securing The Largest Ever Federal Investment In Upstate Transit Agencies, Including $156.5 Million For NFTA:

Aware of the need to major investment in Western New York’s transit agency, Schumer was able to secure $156.5 million in federal monies for the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA) over FY22-26. This was part of a larger federal infrastructure investment that saw almost $90 billion go to transportation agencies as part of Schumer’s plan to finally bring public transportation into the 21st century. These funds can be used for everything from the continuation of daily operations, to maintenance and bus procurement.

LONG ISLAND

Senator Schumer delivered substantial relief for Long Island over the past year:

Over 1 Billion in aid to county, town, and village governments

Approximately 1,100 restaurants received over $270 million through the Restaurant Revitalization Fund

Over $57 million to over 100 shuttered entertainment venues, organizations, and companies

Over $323 million to Long Island’s public school districts

Over $266 million to higher education intuitions on Long Island

Airports on Long Island received over $39 million

Throughout the pandemic, 121,041 businesses on Long Island have received over $10.50 billion in PPP funds

Delivered Record $106 Million Investment To Protect Long Island Sound:

Schumer successfully fought to deliver $106 million for the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Long Island Sound Program. More than 23 million people live within 50 miles of the Long Island Sound, an important natural resource that is home to more than 120 species of fish and is an economic engine that draws families, boaters, tourists, and anglers to Long Island. This record investment will be delivered over the next five years to continue efforts to rehabilitate and preserve the Sound for generations to come, and is in addition to the annual appropriations Senator Schumer fights for each year.

Secured Timely Federal Approval Of $232 Million Disaster Aid For Construction Of The Critical Suffolk County Coastal Resiliency Initiative:

Schumer advocated to the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) and Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for approval of $232 million in post-Sandy disaster aid he secured to be used for the Suffolk County Coastal Resiliency Initiative, paving the way for construction of this critical infrastructure project and ensuring that construction begins on schedule. These federal funds – paired with $46 million that Senator Schumer secured for Suffolk County via the American Rescue plan – are being used for the largest sewer expansion program in Suffolk County in approximately 40 years.

Reeled-In Victories And Disaster Assistance For Long Island’s Fishing And Shellfishing Industries:

In May, Schumer called on Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo to keep a New Yorker in one of the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council’s at-large seats. The retention of this seat and the representation it provides New York on the Council is essential to providing fairer fishing allocations and correcting past injustices that have burdened New York’s fishermen and hampered one of Long Island’s legacy industries. In June, Long Islander Tom Schlichter was appointed to the seat. Also in June, after Schumer’s advocacy following a widespread scallop die-off in Peconic Bay in 2019 and 2020, Secretary Raimondo announced a disaster declaration for the Peconic Bay scallop fishery. This declaration makes the fishery eligible for disaster assistance from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and may also unlock assistance from the Small Business Administration (SBA). In July, Schumer wrote to the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) advocating for an increase in New York’s black sea bass commercial quota allocation after New York State appealed the initial allocation decision, noting that New York’s portion of the commercial quote had not been updated to reflect the increased abundance of black sea bass in New York’s waters. In August, the ASMFC’s Summer Flounder, Scup and Black Sea Bass Management Board approved an allocation increase, increasing the amount of fish New York’s fishermen can catch.

Secured $1 Billion Cybersecurity Grant Program For Federal Cybersecurity Assistance To State And Local Governments, Including Schools:

In the Bipartisan Infrastructure and Jobs bill, Schumer secured crucial cybersecurity assistance for state and local government to modernize their cybersecurity infrastructure and give state and local entities the tools they need to stop malicious hacks. The $1 billion grant also targets rural communities that may have less access to cybersecurity assistance and resources. After numerous recent cyberattacks on local governments in New York, school systems, and a water treatment facility, Schumer announced at the Manhasset Secondary School the $1 billion authorization and encouraged local leaders, school administrators, and county officials to begin working with the NY state government to prepare a cyber-resource plan to secure federal assistance from the $1 billion grant program to prevent and mitigate future attacks.

CAPITAL REGION

Senator Schumer delivered substantial relief for the Capital Region over the past year:

Over $549.5 million in aid to local governments

Over $39 million for shuttered venues in the Capital Region

$152 million for higher education institutions like the University of Albany, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, and Adirondack Community College.

$52.5 million for Capital Region transit systems like the Capital District Transit Authority (CDTA), and the Greater Glens Falls Transit.

Airports in the Capital Region received $49 million

Throughout the pandemic, 30,238 businesses in the Capital Region have received over $2.7 billion in PPP funds

Following Passage Of USICA, Globalfoundries Commits To Building Fab 8.2 And Relocating Headquarters To Malta:

In April, Schumer visited GlobalFoundries to announce that the company has decided to move its headquarters from California to Saratoga County. In June, the Senate, under Schumer’s leadership, passed the United States Innovation and Competition Act (USICA), which will invest $52 billion into the domestic semiconductor industry by implementing the federal semiconductor incentive programs Schumer passed into law as part of last year’s National Defense Authorization Act. Two months later, Schumer returned to Malta, this time with US Department of Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, to announce that GlobalFoundries has decided to build a second semiconductor fabrication plant at the Luther Forest site. This project, which will look to make use of the billions of dollars in federal incentives Schumer is working to finalize, will get underway in 2022 and will create thousands of union construction jobs and over one thousand permanent jobs at the new fab.

Established Federal Limousine Safety Regulations In Response To The Tragic 2018 Limo Accident In Schoharie:

After the terrible limousine crash in Schoharie, NY that killed 20 people, Schumer promised the victims’ families that he would not rest until the federal government established limousine safety regulations aimed at preventing future tragic incidents. This August, Schumer worked in a bipartisan way on the floor of the Senate to overcome an objection to the inclusion of these standards into the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. When President Biden signed the measure into law on November 15, Schumer saw to it that Kevin Cushing, who became a tireless advocate for limo safety after his son Patrick was killed in the Schoharie incident, was in attendance at the White House ceremony. The law addresses limo safety with a ten point plan that includes funding, new inspection rules, vehicle crash testing, and new standards regarding seat belts, seating systems, retrofit assessment for existing limos and safety standards for altering used vehicles into limousines.

Delivered $61 Million For CDTA To Establish The “Purple Line” Bus Rapid Transit Route:

Last year, CDTA began service on its popular “Blue Line” bus rapid transit route that connects Albany with Watervliet, Cohoes, Troy and Waterford, which was made possible by federal funding from the Federal Transit Authority’s Small Starts program. Senator Schumer has worked with CDTA for the last decade on this effort, first to gain CDTA’s inclusion into the program, and then to maximize the level of funding. This summer, FTA announced that it has made $61 million from the program available to CDTA for the establishment of the next bus rapid transit route. The “Purple Line”, first envisioned by CDTA and Schumer when he visited the College of St. Rose on October 21, 2013, will connect downtown Albany, with St. Rose, the Harriman Campus, the University at Albany, and Crossgates Mall. Together with the “Red Line” service that connects downtown Albany with downtown Schenectady along Central Avenue, CDTA’s growing network of bus rapid transit routes have transformed public transportation in the Capital Region and established a model for transit systems across upstate.

ROCHESTER-FINGER LAKES

Senator Schumer delivered substantial relief for the Finger Lakes region over the past year:

Over $566.09 million in aid to Rochester and Finger Lakes local governments

412 Finger Lakes restaurants received over $77.72 million through the Restaurant Revitalization Fund

Over $28 million for shuttered venues in the Finger Lakes

$163.84 million for higher education institutions like the University of Rochester, RIT, and more.

Rochester-Genesee Regional Transportation Authority received over $139.98 million between the American Rescue Plan and the Bipartisan Infrastructure bill to support their 900+ employees

Airports in the Finger Lakes received over $44.74 million

Throughout the pandemic, 31,116 businesses in the Finger Lakes region have received over $2.89 billion in PPP funds

Successfully Landed New $125 Million Plug Power Gigafactory Bringing 377 Jobs To Monroe County:

Senator Schumer made a personal call to Plug Power CEO Andy Marsh advocating for Plug Power to choose Upstate NY for the site of its new factory. Plug Power heeded his call and officially opened its new $125 Million Hydrogen Fuel Cell Innovation Center In Monroe County this November.

Delivered Over $18 Million In Federal Funds To Start Critical Broadband Project To Bring High-Speed Internet To Livingston And Orleans Counties:

After months of advocacy, Senator Schumer secured an $11.3 million Rural Development Broadband ReConnect grant for Livingston County to bring high speed broadband internet to thousands of homes, business, and farms. In addition, thanks to funding from State and Local aid that Senator Schumer secured in the American Rescue Plan, Orleans County was able to fulfill a decades-long dream to provide high-speed internet access to the entire county by investing $7.83 million they received to provide broadband access to over 1,500 unserved households.

Secured VA Approval For The Expansion Of The WNY National Veteran Cemetery:

After the Veterans Administration stripped features for the WNY National Veteran Cemetery from their 2019 plans, Schumer pushed the department to build the complete cemetery needed for local veterans and helped secure an additional $10 million to ensure the project’s completion. Thanks to his initial advocacy, construction will continue and the next phase will include an above-ground columbarium, ossuary, memorial wall, second committal shelter, a loop roadway, and landscaping to provide Upstate veterans the honorable facilities they deserve.

CENTRAL NEW YORK

Senator Schumer delivered substantial relief for Central New York over the past year:

Over $483 million in aid to local governments

Over $411 million for CNY K-12 school districts

Over $172 million for CNY higher education institutions

Over $45 million for CNY airports

Over $112 million for Centro to support its 600 employees who operate the transportation authority's bus service in Syracuse, Oswego, Auburn, Rome, and Utica

Over $14 million for CNY community health centers

Over $2 million for CNY Head Start programs

Over $17 million for Onondaga County & over $7 million for Oneida County in rental & homelessness prevention funding

Over $15 million for CNY live event venues through the Save Our Stages grant program

Throughout the pandemic, 10,572 businesses in Central New York have received over $564.86 million in PPP funds

After Decades-Long Effort, Helped Syracuse Airport Finally Land Southwest Airlines:

For over 20 years, Senator Schumer fought to bring low-cost Southwest flights to Upstate New York to help boost competition and lower fares – but Syracuse remained the only major Upstate city without service from the airline. As local officials continued to engage with Southwest Airlines, Schumer spoke directly with the company’s CEO Greg Kelly to advocate for flights out of Syracuse and worked in congress to keep airlines solvent through the pandemic. As the economy reopened, Southwest finally launched service at Hancock International Airport in June.

Secured Funding For Saab To Expand & Create 50 Jobs In Central New York:

With an eye towards Saab’s radar technology developed in East Syracuse, Schumer secured $7 million for the Navy to advance critical improvements to its combat fleet and then ensured Saab was selected for the contract to do the important work. The new contract will create 50 good-paying jobs in Central New York, with potential for more jobs in future.

Solidified Rome Lab’s Position At The Epicenter Of Quantum Computing Jobs & Innovation:

After securing tens of millions of dollars for Rome Lab’s Quantum Information Science (QIS) research and development in recent years, Senator Schumer helped convince the military to establish Rome Lab as the Quantum Information Science Research Center for the Department of Defense. This landmark designation will deliver millions of additional dollars to Rome Lab, attract the nation’s top talent, and create good paying jobs in the Mohawk Valley. With the race to innovation in quantum computing proving to be the great scientific race of the 21st century, Rome Lab will ensure the U.S does not fall behind international competitors like China and Russia.

Secured Funding To Bring High-Speed Internet To 1K Homes & Businesses In Madison County:

With large parts of rural Madison County lacking access to high-speed internet, Senator Schumer worked hand-in-hand with Madison County officials as they sought funding to close the digital divide from the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Rural Development Broadband ReConnect Program. After Schumer held a personal meeting with USDA Secretary Tom Vilsak, Madison County was awarded a $10 million grant to bring new high-speed internet broadband access to over 1,000 homes, businesses and farms across the county.

HUDSON VALLEY

Senator Schumer delivered substantial relief for the Hudson Valley over the past year:

Over $910.6 million in aid to local governments

Over 715 Hudson Valley restaurants received over $157 million through the Restaurant Revitalization Fund

Over $67 million for shuttered venues in the Hudson Valley

$219.69 million for higher education institutions like the SUNY Orange, Westchester Community College, SUNY New Paltz, and more.

Hudson Valley Transit Systems received over $12.9 billion between the American Rescue Plan and the Bipartisan Infrastructure bill

Airports in the Hudson Valley received over $51 million

Throughout the pandemic, 82,074 businesses in the Hudson Valley region have received over $6.49 billion in PPP funds

Secured $11.96 Million To Revitalize Downtown New Rochelle By Reconnecting Lincoln Avenue Communities Divided By Memorial Highway:

New Rochelle's Lincoln Avenue communities were separated from the services and support of the city's downtown in 1958 when the construction of Memorial Highway bulldozed their neighborhood. For over 3 years, Senator Schumer pushed the U.S. Department of Transportation to approve the LINC project. At the beginning of President Biden’s administration, Schumer spoke to Secretary Buttigeg directly to advocate for these funds. In November of this year, Schumer announced $11.96 million for the LINC project, which will reconnect the 25,000 residents living in the Lincoln Avenue communities to the services, transportation, and job opportunities in New Rochelle's downtown by adding a walkable, bike-able city street with open green space.

Successfully Secured Selection In A Game-Changing Federally Funded Program That Increases Community Involvement And Fast Tracks The PFAS Cleanup Process At Stewart Air National Guard Base For Orange County Residents:

Following over 5 years of fighting for clean drinking water in the City of Newburgh and its surrounding communities, Schumer announced this May that Stewart Airport will be the first Air National Guard Remedial Investigation funded under the Defense Environmental Restoration Program (DERP). This program, officially awarded to Stewart this September, provides the funds needed to begin the remedial investigation at Stewart and also allows regulators to expedite the review of documents and give the Resident Advisory Board to access funding to cover administrative costs to better educate Orange County communities about ongoing remediation efforts.

Delivered A Historic $35 Million Federal Investment To Build New York's First-Of-Its-Kind Children’s Specialty Hospital Creating 400 New Healthcare Jobs In Sullivan County:

This $35 million investment, funded through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Office of Rural Development’s Community Facilities Program, was needed for The Center for Discovery (TCFD) to build New York’s first short-term inpatient assessment program for children with complex conditions to begin construction, creating over 400 healthcare jobs and 150 construction jobs in Sullivan County, while improving access to quality care and services for Upstate New York’s most vulnerable. In early 2020, USDA officials visited the site at Schumer's request. After the visit, COVID cases surged in Sullivan County, creating unprecedented burdens for TCFD, including $5 million in lost revenue. This made the $35 million USDA investment secured by Schumer critical to keep the Children's Specialty Hospital project on track for the groundbreaking this July.

Secured Hundreds Of Thousands For EPA To Cleanup And Revitalize The Asbestos-Contaminated Former Techcity Site To Bring Ulster County's Former Economic Engine Back To Life:

Schumer delivered hundreds of thousands of dollars for EPA to help clean up the former TechCity site, on top of historic funding for both Ulster County and the Town of Ulster through the American Rescue Plan for economic and workforce development opportunities, and billions in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act to supercharge cleanup efforts at superfund sites like this across New York. Following Schumer's efforts and July visit, multiple community partners came together, announcing last week that the blighted former IBM site will become iPark87, creating up to 1,000 new local jobs and garnering hundreds of millions in private investment.

Secured $4 Million For Access: Supports For Living To Continue Its Life Saving Mental Health And Substance Abuse Services Across The Hudson Valley:

Senator Schumer played a critical role in the inception of the Access Mental Health and Substance Use Urgent Care, securing $4 million. In May of 2020, he learned that Access needed additional federal support to keep its Mental Health and Substance Use Urgent Care going in the years to come. Taking action, Senator Schumer successfully secured a meeting between Access and SAMHSA to keep the Urgent Care open as demand for these services drastically increased during the pandemic. Following his tireless advocacy, Schumer announced this February that he successfully secured $4 million so Access could continue its virtual and in-person operations in Newburgh and Middletown over the next several years. For these efforts, he was also honored with the nonprofit's prestigious 'Vision of Hope' award this year.

SOUTHERN TIER

Senator Schumer delivered substantial relief for the Southern Tier over the past year:

Nearly $330 million in aid to Southern Tier local governments

Over 180 Southern Tier restaurants received over $40 million through the Restaurant Revitalization Fund

Over $23.6 million for over 40 shuttered venues in the Southern Tier like Cinempolis and the State Theater in Ithaca, the Corning Museum of Glass, the Roberson Museum and Science Center in Binghamton, Clemens Center in Elmira, and many more

$161 million for higher education institutions like Binghamton University, Ithaca College, SUNY Alfred, and more.

$67.11 million for transit systems in the Southern Tier Like BC Transit in Broome County, TCAT in Tompkins County, and C-TRAN in Chemung County

Airports in the Southern Tier received over $32 million

Secured $3.4 Million In Economic Development Administration Funding For The Hornell IDA To Support Major 250 Job Expansion At Alstom:

Following Alston being awarded a nearly $1.8 billion contract to make passenger rail cars for the Chicago Metra Commuter Rail System, Senator Schumer called Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo directly to advocate for the City of Hornell, which needed federal funding to support critical infrastructure upgrades to the Shawmut Industrial Park to support Alstom’s massive expansion in the region. This funding directly supported the creation of nearly 250 new jobs and helps cement Hornell’s position as one of the nation’s main hubs for train manufacturing.

Delivered BIG For Broome County Transportation With Over $3.2 Million Grant To Purchase Six New Electric, Zero Emission Buses And $1 Million Grant To Make Critical Improvements To The Greater Binghamton Airport:

On top of the nearly $30 million Senator Schumer secured for BC Transit and over $6.3 million for the Greater Binghamton Airport through the ARP and IIJA, Senator Schumer wrote to Transportation Secretary Buttigieg and successfully delivered on two key grants for Broome County. The first is a $1 million grant through the Small Community Air Service Development Program for improvements to airport and to bolster efforts to expand air service. The second is a $3.2 million grant through the Low and No Emission Vehicle Grant Program, which will allow Broome County to replace polluting diesel buses with six-battery electric, zero emission buses. In addition, the new buses will have components made by BAE Systems in Endicott, supporting local jobs while making the community cleaner.

Procured $1.4 Million Through DOL And Appalachian Regional Commission For SUNY Alfred To Support Training For 200 New Southern Tier Manufacturing Jobs:

With major regional employers in the western Southern Tier seeking to expand operations, Senator Schumer pushed for SUNY Alfred to receive funding through the U.S. Department of Labor, in partnership with the Appalachian Regional Commission, to develop training initiatives for specialized jobs such as welding. This funding will now support nearly 200 new skilled manufacturing jobs in the region at Alstom and Ljungström.

NORTH COUNTRY

Senator Schumer delivered substantial relief for Northern New York over the past year:

Over $145.8 million for local governments in the North Country

Over $135 million for K-12 school districts in the North Country

Over $65 million for higher education institutions in the North Country

North Country airports received over $29 million between the American Rescue Plan and the Bipartisan Infrastructure bill

$8.25M for Watertown’s Citibus

Over $4 million for community health centers in Jefferson and St. Lawrence counties

Over $900K for Head Start programs in Jefferson, Lewis and St. Lawrence counties

$2.9 million for Jefferson County Homelessness Assistance Program

Nearly $2.8M for live event venues in North Country through the Save Our Stages grant program

Throughout the pandemic, 5,571 businesses in the North Country have received over $384.13 million in PPP funds

Secured Last Piece Of Funding Needed To Modernize Fort Drum’s Outdated Railhead:

In personal meetings and calls with previous military leadership, Senator Schumer pushed to prioritize the construction of a new railhead at Fort Drum – which is a top priority for Fort Drum officials – and ultimately secured initial funding for the project in the Military Construction budget. Additional funding was still needed to complete the project, so Schumer worked with military leaders to secure to finish the job. The final piece of funding was secured in 2021, allowing Fort Drum to modernize its outdated railhead, improve base readiness, and meet deployment requirements.

Ensured Funding To Deepen The Port Of Ogdensburg Remained Locked-In Place After Project Delay:

In 2017, Senator Schumer secured funding from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to deepen the Ogdensburg Harbor and create new economic opportunities for the Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority (OBPA). However, the federal funds were in jeopardy as the project was delayed while OBPA sought additional funds to complete the project. In 2021, Senator Schumer worked with USACE to keep the federal funding in place while OBPA successfully secured additional funding. The contract on the long-delayed project was finally awarded this year, which will lead to decreased shipping costs and unlock new business opportunities for OBPA.

Infrastructure Bill Includes $10 Billion For Clean Electric Buses Like Those Made By Plattsburgh’s Nova Bus:

Leader Schumer secured $10 Billion in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to invest $5 billion in funding for public transit agencies to adopt low and no emissions buses, and $5 billion for clean, electric school buses. This is a potential boon for Nova Bus in Plattsburgh, which produces low and no emission buses. This funding is a win in the fight against climate change, and just as importantly, a win for growing the North County transit supplier workforce.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/standing-at-proctors-theatre-in-schenectady-with-the-cast-of-summer-the-donna-summer-musical-schumer-announces-10-million-for-schenectady-staple_proctors-theatreand-lays-out-massive-covid-relief-to-boost-capital-regions-economic-recovery-completes-his-first-62-county-tour-around-ny-as-majority-leader--,"STANDING AT PROCTORS THEATRE IN SCHENECTADY WITH THE CAST OF SUMMER: THE DONNA SUMMER MUSICAL, SCHUMER ANNOUNCES $10 MILLION FOR SCHENECTADY STAPLE – PROCTORS THEATRE—AND LAYS OUT MASSIVE COVID RELIEF...",2021-12-12,2021,2021-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Senator Says Proctors Theatre Is Lifeblood & Economic Anchor Of Downtown Schenectady But Thanks To Schumer-Secured $10M, Proctors Is Finally Ready To Open Once Again

Schumer Secured Dedicated Fed COVID Relief That Provided Capital Region Venues And Theaters Over $39 Million To Keep Stages Lit And Ensure The Show Would Go On

Schumer To Capital Region: $10M Because I Love to Love Cap Region, Baby!

Standing at the iconic Proctors Theatre in Schenectady, U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer detailed the impact of the over $39 million he secured for the Capital Region’s independent live venues, independent movie theaters, and cultural institutions thanks to the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG), otherwise known as the ‘Save Our Stages’ program which Schumer led to passage into law. Schumer stood at Albany’s historic Palace Theatre last year to advocate for this funding for the Capital Region. Schumer said that Proctors Theatre is the beating heart of downtown Schenectady and a driving force in the local economy, and the COVID package that he negotiated, provided Proctors Theatre with $10 million in COVID relief to ensure the lights remained on in their darkest days of the pandemic and that Broadway could come back to Schenectady!

“Last year, I stood at another Capital Region staple, the Palace Theatre, promising that I’d deliver for our independent venues – the beating heart of Upstate New York’s cultural life and a driving force in the economy. I’m here to say promises made promises kept, to the tune of $10 million going right here to Proctors Theatre,” said Senator Schumer. “Proctors is an economic anchor in downtown Schenectady, which is why I fought so hard to ensure they’d get their fair share to keep the lights on during their darkest days of the pandemic and recover. Nearly a year after I stood, with Philip Morris and other key venue operators at the Palace Theater in Albany calling for this desperately needed funding; today, I’m here to celebrate over $39 million to venues across the Capital Region to bring Broadway back to Schenectady and ensure the show will go on!”

To date, the SVOG program has provided more than $1.9 billion to more than 1,400 theaters, independent music venues and comedy clubs, independent movie theaters, and cultural institutions like museums and zoos across New York. Schumer said that live venues, independent movie theaters, and cultural institutions are some of the hardest hit industries by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the dedicated federal assistance he secured saved many venues from permanently shutting their doors to the public. The senator said the federal assistance was imperative to local economies because independent venues drive economic activity within communities like Schenectady through restaurants, hotels, taxis and other transportation and retail establishments.

Other beloved Capital Region venues like the Palace Theater, Saratoga Performing Arts Center, Troy Savings Bank Music Hall, and The Egg, were also able to keep the lights on, and continue to drive their communities with the help of the federal relief funds. Schumer explained that it was not just our big live performance theaters who had to close the curtains in March 2020. Movie theaters like Madison Theatre in Albany and Rotterdam Square Cinemas also received funding.

In December 2020, Schumer negotiated the Save Our Stages Act into the bipartisan COVID relief package, which provided $15 billion nationally for independent live venue operators, independent movie theaters, and cultural institutions such as live performing arts organizations and museums that have been significantly impacted by the economic effects of the COVID crisis. Specifically, the COVID relief package created a new Small Business Administration (SBA) grant program known as the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG) which independent live venue operators, promoters, producers, talent representatives, independent movie theaters, and cultural institutions were eligible for. These grants were used for payroll costs, rent, mortgage, utilities, and personal protective equipment, and other needs, to help keep the industry alive and rebound. Schumer then secured more than $1 billion in additional funding for the SVOG program in the American Rescue Plan, and made sure SVOG applicants could access assistance from both Save Our Stages and the SBA’s Paycheck Protection Program.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/with-the-new-omicron-variant-on-the-rise-and-covid-cases-overwhelming-western-ny-hospitals-schumer-stands-at-the-wyoming-county-community-hospital-to-launch-two-pronged-plan-to-help-struggling-upstate-hospitals-get-the-fed-funding-boost-they-need-now,"WITH THE NEW OMICRON VARIANT ON THE RISE AND COVID CASES OVERWHELMING WESTERN NY HOSPITALS, SCHUMER STANDS AT THE WYOMING COUNTY COMMUNITY HOSPITAL TO LAUNCH TWO-PRONGED PLAN TO HELP STRUGGLING...",2021-12-12,2021,2021-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"With Wyoming’s State Of Emergency In Full Effect, Schumer Calls On Feds To Reevaluate WNY Growing COVID Crisis BEFORE Sending Next Tranche Out – Ensuring WNY Gets A Fair Shot & $$$ Gets Where It’s Most Needed

Although Schumer Secured +$200B In Hospital Pandemic Relief, Feds Currently Using Old Data When Deciding Where To Send New $$ Tranche, Potentially Overlooking WNY’s Growing Need As Hospitals Fill And Health Care Providers As A Part Of The American Rescue Plan; But With Variants Like Omicron and Delta On The Rise Upstate NY Hospitals Are Struggling To Keep Up

Schumer To Feds: Get Money Where It’s Needed Most – Like WNY—NOW

With Western New York hospitals overwhelmed by surging COVID cases and counties facing new States of Emergencies, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer today stood at the Wyoming County Community Hospital to launch a new a two-pronged push to get hospitals the help they need as they enter the heart of the harsh winter months. Last week a state of emergency was declared in Wyoming County in an effort to fight back against a rise in COVID-19 cases, which mirrors similar rises happening throughout Upstate New York. Schumer said that this recent surge requires immediate action to slow the spread and keep our communities safe.

Specifically, Schumer is calling for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to start to take into account the recent surges and new serious developments in COVID which have greatly impacted Upstate communities like Wyoming County when determining the next round of the American Rescue Plan’s (ARP) pandemic Provider Relief Fund (PRF) payment calculations. Schumer explained that HHS has not yet released the formula for how the next round (Phase 4) of Provider Relief Fund (PRF) payments will be calculated, but that currently it is marked as “General Distribution” meaning they won’t be taking into account COVID prevalence, but rather only weeks old data financial information that captures revenues lost and additional expenses due to COVID-19 from prior months. In addition, providers already had to submit their revenue and loss data for this grant round over a month ago, meaning it will likely not account for the reality facing many Western New York hospitals given the recent surge.

“Western New York hospitals are on the frontlines battling the many variants of COVID and many, like the Wyoming County Community Hospital, are struggling to keep up with the surge. During this time of crisis, it’s imperative that the feds do all they can to help those on the ground and right now, I’m asking them to step up and do more,” said Senator Schumer. “I am calling on the Department of Health and Human Services to immediately and fully take into account the impact of rising COVID cases on our Upstate New York hospitals. Second, I’m calling on HHS to immediately get this money OUT the door to ensure WNY hospitals have all the support they need as they continue to keep our communities safe on the frontlines.”

Schumer explained that he is also urging that HHS get the payments for these struggling hospitals, which has already been appropriated as a part of the American Rescue Plan, out the door ASAP to help cover the rising costs from the surge in cases. Schumer said getting Upstate healthcare providers the help they need as soon as possible is integral to combatting the spread of COVID-19.

As of December 10th, among all 62 New York counties, Wyoming County and Orleans County were tied with the highest daily average number of COVID-19 cases per 100,000 at 103. The next highest county is Genesee at 100 and right now WNY and the Finger Lakes have the highest rates in the state.

Schumer urged HHS to specifically take into account the loss of elective surgery revenue at Wyoming Community Hospital and 31 other upstate hospitals that had to suspect elective surgeries starting this week because a spike in COVID-19 hospital admissions has reduced their available bed capacity to 10% or less. Schumer said HHS should prioritize funding awards for hospitals like these 32 which now have the greatest need. These 32 hospitals include several in Western New York including Erie County Medical Center, Mercy Hospital of Buffalo, Mount St Marys Hospital and Health Center, Sisters of Charity Hospital and several in the Finger Lakes including Strong Memorial Hospital, Rochester General Hospital, F.F. Thompson, and Highland Hospital. Schumer said these hospitals are especially challenged having to now care for a large number of COVID-19 admissions while not being able to offset the additional expenses with one of their most important sources of revenue, elective surgery.

Joseph McTernan, CEO of the Wyoming County Community Health System said, “With COVID infection rates again spiking in our community, we need all hands on deck to both care for the increasing number of patients being admitted for care while addressing the burden of increased costs required to provide this care. These challenges have only compounded since WCCH is now one of the 32 New York hospitals with fewer than 10 percent bed capacity requiring us to suspend elective surgeries. Through the federal COVID relief bills championed by Senator Schumer WCCH has already received over $6 million in federal aid that has helped sustain us so far. And now that he pandemic is worsening again, we appreciate Senator Schumer’s push to help significantly impacted hospitals like WCCH now access additional federal relief funding.”

Wyoming County Board of Supervisors Chairwoman Rebecca Ryan said, “As one of only two county owned hospitals in New York, Wyoming County Community Hospital is once again rising to meet our community’s health-care needs as COVID-19 infection rates increase. As hospital admissions rise and expenses mount, mobilizing to combat the COVID outbreak will require help from all levels of government. I thank Senator Schumer for securing over $6 million in pandemic aid for our hospital and to once again push for additional federal aid to help support our community through this latest surge.”

Schumer’s push for additional funds today follows his efforts to secure significant funding over the past 21 months that has helped sustain hospitals through the pandemic period. Specifically, Senator Schumer has delivered over $13.5 billion in grant funding to NY hospitals and providers through the Provider Relief Fund alone with billions more still awaiting to be disbursed. In addition, the Senator has secured tens of billions of dollars in much-needed relief including through various legislation and programs that delivered low-cost loans to providers, staved off potentially disastrous federal cuts to Medicare payments and increased payments to the New York Medicaid program that have helped NYS from instituting drastic cuts in provider reimbursements and consumer benefits.

In the April 2020 CARES Act, Schumer led the charge in Congress to create the Provider Relief Fund (PRF) - managed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) - with to provide funding to healthcare providers and hospitals caring for patients with COVID-19 and who suffered high expenses and lost revenues caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Although initially funded at $100 billion, Schumer led the charge in Congress further to successfully add an additional $86.5 billion to the Provider Relief Fund (PRF) throughout the last year through the Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enactment Act, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 and the American Rescue Plan. As of December 10th, 2021, HHS has awarded over $130 billion in funding from the PRF through distinct 11 distributions. Currently HHS will be awarding another $17 billion in a 12th tranche (Phase 4) to providers based on applications submitted by hospitals a month ago. Since these applications were submitted before the current surge in COVID-19 rates across WNY and Upstate, today Schumer announced his push for HHS to prioritize funding awards for hospitals like WCCH and the 31 other Upstate hospitals that now have the greatest need when HHS selects the recipients for this upcoming $17 billion tranche.

Below are the 32 NY hospitals now impacted by the elective surgery suspension have received the following totals of Provider Relief Funds since the start of the pandemic:

Hospital

Hospital Network

Region

County

PRF Funds

A.O. Fox Memorial Hospital

Bassett Healthcare Network

Mohawk Valley

Otsego

$6,998,802

Albany Medical Center Hospital

Albany Medical Center

Capital Region

Albany

$43,210,212

Brooks-TLC Hospital System, Inc.

Independent

Western New York

Chautauqua

$10,468,315

Canton-Potsdam Hospital

St. Lawrence Health System

North Country

St. Lawrence

$11,494,518

Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center

North Star Health Alliance

North Country

St. Lawrence

$9,437,814

Crouse Hospital

Crouse Health

Central New York

Onondaga

$8,364,463

Erie County Medical Center

Independent

Western New York

Erie

$62,807,257

F.F. Thompson Hospital

University of Rochester Medical Center

Finger Lakes

Ontario

$5,253,336

Faxton-St Lukes Healthcare St Lukes Division

Mohawk Valley Health System

Mohawk Valley

Oneida

$23,268,616

Geneva General Hospital

Finger Lakes Health

Finger Lakes

Ontario

$7,711,340

Glens Falls Hospital

Independent

Capital Region

Warren

$23,233,254

Guthrie Cortland Medical Center

The Guthrie Clinic

Central New York

Cortland

$12,235,223

Highland Hospital

University of Rochester Medical Center

Finger Lakes

Monroe

$23,881,664

Little Falls Hospital

Bassett Healthcare Network

Mohawk Valley

Herkimer

$4,426,084

Mercy Hospital of Buffalo

Catholic Health, Buffalo

Western New York

Erie

$20,795,425

Mount St Marys Hospital and Health Center

Catholic Health, Buffalo

Western New York

Niagara

$16,116,344

Oneida Health Hospital

Independent

Central New York

Madison

$7,802,776

Oswego Hospital

Independent

Central New York

Oswego

$7,641,08

Rochester General Hospital

Rochester Regional Health System

Finger Lakes

Monroe

$83,609,096

Saratoga Hospital

Albany Medical Center

Capital Region

Saratoga

$7,047,728

Sisters of Charity Hospital

Catholic Health, Buffalo

Western New York

Erie

$44,348,366

St Elizabeth Medical Center

Mohawk Valley Health System

Mohawk Valley

Oneida

$5,217,252

St. Mary's Healthcare

Ascension Health

Mohawk Valley

Montgomery

$22,590,810

Strong Memorial Hospital

University of Rochester Medical Center

Finger Lakes

Monroe

$183,389,341

The Unity Hospital of Rochester

Rochester Regional Health System

Finger Lakes

Monroe

$34,217,239

The University of Vermont Health Network - Alice Hyde Medical Center

University of Vermont Health Network

North Country

Franklin

$12,387,076

The University of Vermont Health Network - Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital

University of Vermont Health Network

North Country

Clinton

$31,522,873

The University of Vermont Health Network - Elizabethtown Community Hospital

The University of Vermont Health Network

North Country

Essex

$4,620,145

University Hospital SUNY Health Science Center

Independent

Central New York

Onondaga

$120,423,933

UPMC Chautauqua at WCA

UPMC

Western New York

Chautauqua

$17,618,300

UPSTATE University Hospital at Community General

Independent

Central New York

Onondaga

$126,193,988

Wyoming County Community Hospital

Independent

Finger Lakes

Wyoming

$6,256,951

Below is a copy of Senator Schumer’s letter to HHS:

Dear Secretary Becerra,

I write to request that the Department of Health and Humans Services (HHS) take into consideration the uptick in COVID-19 cases in certain areas of the country such as Western New York and the Finger Lakes Region when calculating the payments to providers that will be made in the upcoming General Distribution from the Provider Relief Fund (PRF). Hospitals and providers in this area, such as Wyoming County Community Hospital, are working day and night to care for patients amid intense financial pressures and need this funding in order to deal with the increase in COVID-19 cases that are crowding their hospital beds. I also ask that these funds be made swiftly; New York providers – especially those in Upstate New York – cannot be made to wait for this direly needed relief.

As you well know, New York has suffered huge losses during the course of this pandemic. While a robust vaccination and testing program has kept the state from reliving the worst of the pandemic’s early days, parts of the state continue to experience high levels of coronavirus caseloads. As of December 10th, 2021, the three counties in New York with the highest daily average number COVID-19 cases per 100,000 are all found in Western New York: Orleans (103), Wyoming (103), Genesee (100). The caseloads in these counties and other areas of New York have increased to such a high level, that 32 hospitals across the state report having 10% or less of available bed capacity open to admit new patients. Due to these critical conditions, New York State has mandated that these hospitals suspend elective procedures until bed capacity improves. The combination of high costs associated with treating COVID-19 patients and the loss of high-revenue-producing elective procedures is damaging the financial health of hospitals such as Wyoming County Community Hospital and highlighted the need for more federal support through programs like the Provider Relief Fund.

In the April 2020 CARES Act, Congress created the PRF with an initial $100 billion in support for providers caring for patients with COVID-19 and who suffered high expenses and lost revenues caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Congress further supplemented the fund with an additional $86.5 billion over the next year through the Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enactment Act, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 and the American Rescue Plan.

As of December 10th, 2021, your Department has sent out over $130 billion in funding from the PRF across three phases of General Distributions and eight targeted allocations, the most recent being the $8.5 billion in American Rescue Plan’s Rural payments. These General Distributions were made using various formulas based on revenues and losses reported in past years’ Medicare and Medicaid cost reporting, tax filings and other financial information. The targeted allocations were based on a wider variety of factors including in some cases the level of COVID-19 admissions at a hospital provider.

In September 2021, HHS announced that up to $17 billion would be made available in a new PRF General Distribution and solicited applications from providers across the country for this funding. The information collected in these applications to develop the formula that will calculate these General Distribution payments once again only considered past tax filings, cost reporting data and other financial information. It does not consider the rising levels of COVID-19 in hard-hit areas such as Upstate New York.

In light of the ongoing increase in COVID-19 cases, I ask that your Department refer to its past practices at the height of the pandemic and incorporate data into the General Distribution formula that captures the enormous burdens placed on providers who are treating patients and saving lives in areas with high rates of COVID-19 cases. I also call on the Department to make these determinations swiftly and distribute the funds as soon as possible. Providers like Wyoming County Community Hospital need these funds now, and communities like those in Western New York cannot afford to wait any longer.

I thank you and your Department for your excellent service during this crisis.

Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-gillibrand-call-on-federal-transit-administration-to-fund-the-rochester-genesee-regional-transportation-authority-,"SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND CALL ON FEDERAL TRANSIT ADMINISTRATION TO FUND THE ROCHESTER-GENESEE REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY",2021-12-10,2021,2021-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand wrote to the Federal Transit Administration in support of the Rochester-Genesee Regional Transportation Authority’s (RGRTA) application for funding from the Bus and Bus Facilities Grant Program. The requested funding would be used to build a facility to house administrative operations and operational staff facilities for the RGRTA, which provides transportation to tens of thousands of residents in the greater Rochester metro area and operates a paratransit service for disabled individuals. RGRTA’s current facilities are over four decades old and beyond their usable lifespan.

“Transportation is what connects our communities and keeps the wheels of the local economy rolling, but in Rochester the aging RGRTA facility is putting the brakes on continued development. That’s why I am urging the Federal Transit Administration to greenlight funding for the construction of a new bus garage for the RGRTA’s paratransit bus service,” said Senator Schumer. “This new facility would allow RGRTA to increase accessibility to paratransit customers and ensure RGRTA continues to operate reliably as an economic engine for the region.”

“RGRTA provides an invaluable service to the Rochester community,” said Senator Gillibrand. “However, its current facilities are in dire need of an upgrade. I urge the Federal Transit Administration to give RGRTA’s application for federal funding the full attention it deserves so that it can continue to provide reliable transit service to those who depend on it.”

Senator Schumer and Senator Gillibrand recently fought to include over $5.5 billion in funding for the FTA’s Bus and Bus Facilities program in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill to fund local transit systems.

Read the full text of the letter here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-urges-secretary-of-commerce-raimondo-to-select-the-southern-tiers-new-energy-ny-project-as-one-of-nations-first-build-back-better-regional-challenge-awardees-project-would-accelerate-budding-battery-manufacturing-ecosystem-in-southern-tier-create-thousands-of-good-paying-jobs-combat-climate-change-and-expand-critical-emerging-industry-in-us-domestic-supply-chain,SCHUMER URGES SECRETARY OF COMMERCE RAIMONDO TO SELECT THE SOUTHERN TIER’S NEW ENERGY NY PROJECT AS ONE OF NATION’S FIRST BUILD BACK BETTER REGIONAL CHALLENGE AWARDEES; PROJECT WOULD ACCELERATE...,2021-12-09,2021,2021-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"New BBB Regional Challenge Funding Would Open Up Southern Tier Opportunity For Revitalizing the Region’s Economy By Promoting Emerging Industries, Innovation, & Workforce Development

Project Brings Together Major Regional Stakeholders: Binghamton University, SUNY Broome, Rochester Institute of Technology, NY-BEST, And More To Turn Upstate New York Into A Battery Manufacturing Powerhouse

Schumer to EDA: Southern Tier’s New Energy New York Project Is A Win-Win-Win To Supercharge Battery Manufacturing, Create Thousands Of Jobs, And Boost R&D To Combat Climate Change

A longtime advocate of innovation and promoting tech manufacturing in Upstate New York, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer is urging the Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) to select the Southern Tier’s New Energy New York battery manufacturing project for investment through the American Rescue Plan’s Build Back Better Regional Challenge. Schumer explained that the project expands on existing research, development, testing, and workforce assets to meet the demand of the emerging battery manufacturing industry. If fully funded, the project estimates that in 10 years as many as 8,000 jobs would be created or supported as a result of this program.

“The Southern Tier has long been a home to innovation, as the birthplace of IBM, flight simulation and virtual reality, and it continues to do groundbreaking research through world-renowned institutions like Binghamton University. That is why I am fighting for the New Energy New York project, to help make the Southern Tier and Upstate New York a major hub of battery manufacturing that is central to our transition to a clean economy,” said Senator Schumer. “Federal investment through the Build Back Better Challenge would help establish the Greater Binghamton area as a national center for battery manufacturing, create thousands of jobs, fuel the innovation necessary to combat climate change, and importantly strengthen a critical area of the U.S. domestic manufacturing supply chain. I will continue to fight tooth and nail to supercharge this growing area of the Upstate New York economy.”

“There is a critical mass of interest at Binghamton University where we have great folks doing this work in partnership with researchers and academics from across New York state. We possess both the battery skills and the fundamental ideas and we partner directly with major industries that need these storage solutions and who will help us make the Southern Tier and New York state the nation’s — if not the world’s — premier hub for lithium-ion battery production,” said M. Stanley Whittingham, distinguished professor and researcher at Binghamton University and recipient of the 2019 Nobel Prize in Chemistry. ""This is not just about jobs and economic development, it is about national security, self-reliance and energy security.""

President Harvey Stenger, Binghamton University, ""We have the know-how and the technology to bridge the gap between small-scale research and large-scale manufacturing as well as the ability to support product development and help companies bring their innovations in energy storage to market. We must be able to bring the innovation and manufacturing processes back home to the United States and Binghamton University together with our partners believe that can happen right here in the Southern Tier and across New York. Other states are competing for this hub but as our leading battery researcher, Nobel Prize winner Stan Whittingham, has stated, Binghamton and New York state are in the pole position to make this happen sooner and more successfully.""

""C4V’s path to commercialization, which has taken around 11 years, should have been shorter, and would have been with the kind of federal programs being discussed and promoted by Senator Schumer. I want to thank him for his advocacy and support,"" said Shailesh Upreti, iM3NY in Endicott, NY’s Chair and Founder. “These great ideas, the intellectual property and patents, are coming out of the United States but we are exporting the knowledge and importing the product. It’s a double loss — it has to change and I am hopeful it will.”

Schumer explained that specifically funding through the EDA would be used in planning for a battery technology and manufacturing center hosted by Binghamton University further supporting economic resurgence in an underdeveloped area of the Southern Tier. In addition, the proposal would also build on regional programs to help spur entrepreneurship, climate justice, and workforce training through higher education partnerships. Project collaborators include a wide swath of the region’s universities, including Binghamton University, SUNY Broome, SUNY Corning Community College, Rochester Institute of Technology, as well as NY-BEST and other key stakeholders like IncubatorWorks, Clean Fight NY as well as County and state government entities.

The $1 billion Build Back Better Regional Challenge, funded by the American Rescue Plan, is designed to assist communities nationwide, with accelerating economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, and building local economies that will be resilient to economic disruptions. The Build Back Better Regional Challenge is being implemented as a two phase program. In Phase 1, the EDA will provide ~$500,000 technical assistance grants. Those selected as Phase 1 awardees will be considered “finalists” and the grants will be used by the finalists to prepare more detailed applications for Phase 2 transformational projects that benefit their respective geographic regions and are aligned around a holistic approach to building and scaling a strategic industries. In Phase 2, the EDA will award 20-30 regional coalitions $25 million to $75 million, and up to $100 million, for selected projects to grow new regional industry clusters or scale existing ones through planning, infrastructure, innovation and entrepreneurship, workforce development, access to capital, and more.

A copy of Senator Schumer’s original letter of support for the New Energy New York proposal appears below:

Dear Secretary Raimondo,

I write in strong support of the joint “New Energy New York” proposal submitted by Binghamton University, SUNY Broome, Rochester Institute of Technology, and New York Battery and Energy Storage Technology (NY-BEST) to the U.S. Economic Development Administration Build Back Better Regional Challenge. This project is critical to the ongoing manufacturing and development of lithium-based batteries in the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes regions of Upstate New York.

Following the unprecedented challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, it is critical, now more than ever, that we continue our investment in strengthening the U.S.’s domestic energy supply chain. The proposed initiative seeks to facilitate this goal by expanding existing research, development, testing, and workforce assets to meet the increasing demand in the electric vehicle, battery, and stationary grid storage markets. The Southern Tier and Finger Lakes are home to a growing lithium ion manufacturing industry, with a gigafactory set to open in 2022 in Endicott, NY.

Specifically, funding through the EDA would help take essential steps in the planning for a battery technology and manufacturing center hosted by Binghamton University further supporting economic resurgence in an underdeveloped area of the Southern Tier. In addition, the proposal would also build on regional programs to help spur entrepreneurship, climate justice, and workforce training programs through higher education partners. The vast coalition assembled for this project speaks to the tremendous value and unwavering commitment of the community to bolstering this emerging manufacturing in Upstate NY.

I applaud Binghamton University, SUNY Broome, Rochester Institute of Technology, NY-BEST, and their regional partners for the ongoing role they continue to play in the economic development of the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes, and sincerely hope the application meets with your approval.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z