Area Development
New York Power Authority Trustees allocated more than $245,000 in funding to two Western New York State companies, Eden Valley Growers, Inc., and Living Green Insulation Products and Services, for projects that will expand their manufacturing capability, increase productivity and provide job training.

“After decade of neglect, we have prioritized revitalizing Western New York's economy and bringing jobs to the region,” Governor Andrew Cuomo said. “The result has been businesses like these expanding operations and creating more jobs in the Buffalo area, instead of closing their doors and leaving. New York State is supporting the growth of these companies by providing funding to help leverage clean energy investments."

Located in Buffalo, Living Green Insulation Products and Services was approved for an award of $165,570 to renovate a downtown building originally constructed in 1860. This facility will house state-of-the-art, sustainable manufacturing operations to produce cellulose insulation and hydro-seed mulch from recycled paper products. Twenty-nine new employees are expected to be hired, and trained at the facility to ensure a skilled workforce for production and sales. The total cost of the project will be in excess of $891,000.

South of Buffalo, Eden Valley Growers Inc., a vegetable farm cooperative in Eden, New York, was approved for $80,000 to enable the co-op and its member growers to meet increased demand for its specialty vegetables. The company plans to install energy efficient coolers and a slush ice cooler. The new equipment will maintain produce freshness allowing an increase in the production and sales of fresh produce such as broccoli grown within a 100-mile radius, thus reducing out-of-state imports. EVG’s expansion will cost $400,000, create six new jobs at the distribution center, and is expected to result in a 20 percent increase in employment at its co-op members’ farms, over a three year period.

NYPA Chairman John R. Koelmel said, “The latest funding awards are closely aligned with strategic priorities of Governor Cuomo and the Western New York Economic Development Council, the advancement of green manufacturing and the growth of agribusiness by New York’s family–owned farms. I am pleased that the value of Power Authority hydropower is being maximized to provide funding so that key Western New York industries can expand, compete for and help create new jobs. A diversified economy is a strong economy.”

NYPA President/CEO Gil C. Quiniones said, “Funding provided by the sale of unallocated Power Authority hydropower is providing the means for Western New York businesses to bring new solutions to the marketplace and help grow jobs."