LANCASTER - A coalition of Western New York municipalities and organizations in Erie, Niagara, Allegany, Chautauqua, and Cattaraugus counties has received funding from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) to create a regional sustainability plan as part of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo's Cleaner, Greener Communities Program. The Western New York Regional Sustainability Planning process is under way and community input is needed to help shape our region's economic and environmental future.
The Cleaner, Greener Communities Program promotes smarter growth practices by funding sustainability planning at the regional level. Regional planning teams can partner with state and federal agencies, municipalities, non-profit organizations, private businesses and residents to break down barriers and develop a sustainability plan that reflects their area's needs. This partnering helps to create more integrated, sustainable solutions and accelerate investment and actual development.
When completed, the Western New York Regional Sustainability Plan will:
Planning teams are looking for ideas from community members and input from experts across a wide range of fields. Please plan on attending a public workshop and sharing your ideas to help shape the Western New York Regional Sustainability Plan. The following workshops are scheduled:
Wednesday, 6-8 p.m.
Starpoint Central High School, Cafeteria
4363 Mapleton Road, Lockport 14094
July 25, 6-8 p.m.
Ramada Jamestown Hotel
150 W. Fourth St., Jamestown 14701
July 24, 6-8 p.m.
Millennium Hotel Grand Ballroom
2040 Walden Ave., Buffalo 14225
July 26, 6-8 p.m.
Moonwinks Restaurant
9302 Jackson Hill Road, Cuba 14727
The Western New York regional planning team is led by Allegany County, with support from Southern Tier West Regional Planning and Development Board, Ecology and Environment, Inc., and the University at Buffalo Regional Institute. To learn more about the project or to submit input via email, visit www.sustainable-ny.com. For questions about the project or the upcoming public meetings, contact Elizabeth Santacrose at 684-8060.
