A bill sponsored by Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, that will grant the Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority access to a larger pool of investment funds, was signed into law by Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo today (A.5651a)
The Authority, which is responsible for the Ogdensburg International Bridge, Airport, and Port, among various other enterprises, has for years operated under an outdated bonding rule that hamstrung efforts to raise funds for new projects.
With the Governor’s signature, the Authority will be able to bond for upgrades at the International Airport and Bridge, options that come at a crucial time for the economy of Ogdensburg and the North Country at large.
“The on-going expansion of the Ogdensburg International Airport is an important element in a multi-faceted effort to bring more people to the North Country and anything we can do to support this endeavor is worth exploring,” Russell said. “At the Ogdensburg International Bridge there is immense need for upgrades and refurbishment that this legislation will address. With a modernized ability to bond, the Authority will have an expanded ability to qualify for and manage larger infrastructure grants going forward.”
Russell stressed the important role the Authority plays in maintaining economic ties with Canada, America’s largest trading partner.
“Canadian markets are an important source of revenue for the North Country, the state, and the nation,” Russell said. “I’m proud to have sponsored this legislation and want to thank Governor Cuomo for recognizing how important the Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority is to the North Country.”
“The Authority greatly appreciates the Assemblywoman Russell's assistance updating the Authority's bonding legislation. Assemblywoman Russell and our state representatives have been resilient advocates for economic growth and development here in the North County. They have been terrific partners throughout this entire process,” said OBPA Executive Director Wade A. Davis. “The Ogdensburg International Airport expansion will undoubtedly result in job creation, increased tourism and an overall promotion of regional transportation capabilities."