WASHINGTON, D.C. – At a ceremony in Rouses Point today, Rep. John M. McHugh (R-NY) presented a $100,000 check to Rouses Point Mayor George Rivers – funds that will help the village plan for its future after the Wyeth Pharmaceuticals plant is closed.

“I am pleased to deliver these much-needed funds to Rouses Point,” McHugh said. “This is a strong community, and we are moving forward in finding a long-term solution. As a means to that end, this grant will allow local leaders to take a close look at both what the area has to offer and what it needs most – which can ultimately help pave the way in recruiting new businesses or industries.”

Rouses Point will use the grant to develop a comprehensive redevelopment strategy. The study will assess economic opportunities available to Rouses Point, such as reuse and redevelopment of the site and job and tax base growth in high technology, tourism, or downtown waterfront business.

The Economic Adjustment Assistance Program provides a wide range of technical, planning and infrastructure assistance in regions experiencing adverse economic changes that may occur suddenly or over time. This program is designed to respond flexibly to pressing economic recovery issues and is well suited to help address challenges faced by U.S. regions and communities.

The Economic Development Administration (EDA) was established to generate jobs, help retain existing jobs, and stimulate industrial and commercial growth in economically distressed areas of the United States. EDA assistance is available to rural and urban areas of the Nation experiencing high unemployment, low income, or other severe economic distress. The EDA is part of the U.S. Department of Commerce.

McHugh first announced the award, from the U.S. Economic Development Administration’s Economic Adjustment Assistance Program, last month.

Click here to view/download a photo of Congressman John M. McHugh presenting the $100,000 grant to Rouses Point Mayor George Rivers.