Gouverneur Community Center opens its doors as a cooling center during extreme heat

by Rachel Hunter

With temperatures climbing past 100 degrees this summer, the Eldon B. Conklin Gouverneur Community Center has again taken on a critical role as the community’s cooling center, offering residents a safe, air‑conditioned refuge from the dangerous heat.

Did you know? Heating and cooling centers in the United States grew from a patchwork of early public‑building practices into one of the country’s most relied‑upon emergency‑weather systems. Their history traces back more than a century, shaped by technological breakthroughs, deadly weather events, and a growing recognition that temperature extremes pose serious public‑health risks.

The earliest version of a “warming center” appeared in the late 1800s and early 1900s, when cities began constructing libraries, municipal halls, and settlement houses equipped with steam boilers and radiators. These buildings offered reliable heat at a time when many homes were drafty, poorly insulated, or heated by stoves that were expensive to fuel. During severe cold snaps, residents often gathered in these public spaces, even before municipalities formally labeled them as emergency shelters.

Cooling centers emerged later, tied directly to the invention of modern air conditioning. In 1902, engineer Willis Carrier introduced the first practical mechanical cooling system, initially designed for industrial humidity control. By the 1920s and 1930s, air‑conditioned theaters and department stores became popular summer refuges. As heat waves intensified, cities began recognizing cooled public buildings as essential safe havens.

The post‑war boom accelerated the trend. By the 1950s, air conditioning spread through government buildings, schools, and libraries, making it possible for municipalities to designate official cooling centers during heat emergencies. Deadly events, such as the 1966 and 1972 Northeastern heat waves, pushed cities to adopt more structured response plans. At the same time, federal agencies began urging communities to prepare for temperature‑related disasters, especially as urban populations grew and climate‑control access remained uneven.

By the 1970s and 1980s, heating and cooling centers were standard components of emergency‑management strategies. Today, they operate in libraries, senior centers, churches, schools, and town halls nationwide. Their evolution reflects both technological progress and a deepening commitment to protecting vulnerable residents as extreme weather becomes more frequent.

The Eldon B. Conklin Gouverneur Community Center at 4673 NY‑58 has served as the community’s designated cooling center for years, a role made possible through the strong, ongoing partnership between the Town of Gouverneur and the Village of Gouverneur

Town of Gouverneur Supervisor David Spilman, Jr. said the center’s quiet, consistent service has become an essential part of protecting vulnerable residents during extreme weather. The Eldon B. Conklin Gouverneur Community Center has opened its doors during every heat event, sometimes serving as many as ten people at once, other times going days without a visitor. Spilman said the number doesn’t matter, the commitment does.

“It’s a godsend to our community,” Spilman said. “At times like this, when it’s 102 degrees, if you can get here, we’re here for you.”

The Eldon B. Conklin Gouverneur Community Center provides cold water, Wi‑Fi, phone charging, and a comfortable place to sit, and if someone needs a meal, staff will make sure they get one. Most visitors are older residents who struggle with extreme heat at home. “Glad to help anybody in need,” Spilman said.

Hours at the center remain flexible because the building is active throughout the day. Supervisor Spilman is typically on site by 5:30 a.m., and staff or volunteers are present until about 4 p.m., with evening programs often extending access until 5:30 or 6 p.m. For anyone who needs relief outside those times, help is still available. “They can call the PD, and they can get ahold of me. I can go down and open up after hours,” Spilman said, noting that Gouverneur’s dedicated facility offers residents a dependable, centrally located place to escape extreme heat.

Supervisor Spilman said the cooling center remains one of the most important services the Eldon B. Conklin Gouverneur Community Center provides… especially for older residents who may not have reliable air conditioning at home. “This just shows one more function of this community center, and the need for it in the community,” he said. For more information about the Gouverneur Community Center, 315-771-6057.

Faithful readers of the Gouverneur Tribune Press will recall that the Town and Village of Gouverneur share a long‑term vision for the Eldon B. Conklin Community Center: a combined disaster‑relief and recreation building that would connect directly to the existing facility and expand its role as a year‑round resource for residents. Town of Gouverneur Supervisor David Spilman, Jr. shared with the Gouverneur Tribune Press that the plan calls for a 6,000‑square‑foot metal building by the Eldon B. Conklin Gouverneur Community Center, designed with a gymnasium‑style interior capable of sheltering up to 100 people during emergencies. A connector hallway would link the new structure to the Gouverneur Community Center, allowing residents to move easily between sleeping areas, hygiene facilities, and food service spaces. Much of the infrastructure for expansion is already in place. The estimated cost has risen to between $2 million and $2.5 million, and the center intends to pursue the New York State BRIC grant this fall. The Gouverneur Tribune Press will report developments as details are released.

Other cooling centers across St. Lawrence County include the Brier Hill Fire Department at 2678 State Highway 37 in Brier Hill (315‑323‑0047, call for availability), the Town of Brasher Municipal Building at 11 Factory Street in Brasher Falls (315‑389‑4223, open Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.), the Norfolk Volunteer Rescue Squad at 7 Sedwick Street in Norfolk (315‑384‑4656, open 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.), Parishville Town Hall at 1772 State Highway 72 in Parishville (315‑265‑2131, open Monday, Tuesday, and Friday during operational hours), Pine Street Arena and Sandstoner Beach at 43 Pine Street in Potsdam (315‑265‑7480 or 315‑265‑4030, open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.), STEP by STEP at 1515 Knox Street in Ogdensburg (315‑394‑0597, open daily 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.), Stockholm Town Hall at 540 State Highway 11C in Winthrop (315‑389‑5171 ext. 1, open Monday through Thursday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; call to confirm), and The Salvation Army of Massena at 178 Victory Road in Massena (315‑769‑5154, open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). St. Lawrence County Public Health also notes that libraries, grocery stores, malls, and community swimming pools are also great places to stay cool. For a full list of heating and cooling centers in St. Lawrence County, visit stlawco.gov.

Fowler Family Day is July 18

by Rachel Hunter

The Town of Fowler’s 9th Annual Fowler Family Day will be held on Saturday, July 18, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 87 Little York Road, home of the Fowler Playground and the Herbert V. Whalen Memorial Pavilion.

This year’s Fowler Family Day is dedicated to the memory of Randy L. Durham, Sr., Fowler’s longtime Superintendent of Highways, whose passing earlier this year left a profound and heartfelt void across the town he served so faithfully.

Randy was born on December 16, 1959, in Gouverneur to Donald W. and Beverly A. (Dusharm) Durham. A proud graduate of Gouverneur Central School, he stepped immediately into a life of service, enlisting in the United States Marine Corps and serving four years before continuing his military career in the United States Army. Over the next 17 years, Randy built a record of dedication, discipline, and honor, ultimately earning an honorable discharge in 2007. On July 12, 1986, he married Lisa Allen at the Gouverneur United Methodist Church, beginning a life centered on family, community, and service.

Randy’s civilian career reflected the same commitment he brought to the military. He worked as Assistant Manager at Ames Department Store before becoming the Highway Superintendent for the Town of Fowler — a role in which he became a steady, reliable presence for residents. He also served as President of the St. Lawrence County Highway Superintendents Association and worked as a Real Estate Broker for TLC Realty in Gouverneur. His community involvement ran deep: he was a member of the Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035, serving as Exalted Ruler from 2018–2020; a member of the Gouverneur Masonic Lodge; and a member of the AmVets.

Outside of work, Randy was known for his love of hunting, fishing, volunteering, and talking politics. He was an avid Yankees fan, and those who knew him best will smile remembering how much he loved his cows. Randy lived fully, gave generously, and carried himself with the quiet confidence of someone who understood the value of hard work and neighborly care.

His dedication to Fowler, his constant presence in times of need, and the way the community rallied around his family after his passing have made this year’s tribute especially meaningful. The Fowler Family Day Committee hopes residents will come together not only to honor Randy’s memory, but to celebrate the strength, compassion, and unity that define the Town of Fowler — the very qualities Randy embodied every day.

This year, Fowler gathers not just for a celebration, but for a remembrance — a chance to stand together, reconnect, and carry forward the spirit of service and community Randy leaves behind.

Family Day continues to serve as a major fundraiser for improvements to the town’s playground and pavilion. Sidewalk and basketball court upgrades are underway, and the committee’s next goal is expanding the playground and adding new equipment — investments that will benefit local families for years to come.

The day’s schedule is packed with activities designed to bring people together. Fowler resident Franny Knott will perform two original shows — Treasure Time Littles at 11:00 a.m. for ages 3–6, and Treasure Time Mainstage at 11:30 a.m. for ages 7–12. Her Starcazia Music program is known for its energy, creativity, and ability to get kids fully involved. Organizers say her performances are a highlight for all ages.

Food and festivities will fill the grounds, including Mullins Food Truck, popcorn, cotton candy, snow cones, burgers, hot dogs, and a chicken BBQ by the Gouverneur Elks. Classic cars, kids’ games, a cake walk, live goldfish, law enforcement displays, vendors, and crafters will round out the day. This year’s event also includes a celebration of America’s 250th anniversary.

Raffles remain one of Family Day’s biggest draws. Fowler merchants and residents have donated an impressive lineup of prizes. Big‑ticket drawings include a Honda EU2200iTAN inverter generator from Newvine Auto Parts; 125 gallons of fuel oil from Tripp Fuels; Adirondack chairs and a table donated by Tim Knowlton; and cash prizes of $500, $400, and $300. Last year’s small raffles featured nearly 100 donated items, and organizers expect another overflowing raffle table this year.

There also will be a silent auction for a quilt to benefit Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley. Faithful readers of Gouverneur Tribune Press will recall that a treasured quilt has returned to Fowler for a second act of generosity, renewing its support for Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley more than twenty years after it first aided the cause. Stitched by 32 Fowler Baptist Church members, the 49‑square quilt depicts beloved North Country scenes and was finished by Norb Hall of Fabric Arts. It was first won by Norton W. Taylor, who proudly displayed it for decades and left instructions that it be returned to the town upon his passing. The Town of Fowler will raffle the quilt during Fowler Family Day on July 18, continuing its legacy of community care.

New this year, the Town of Fowler will launch its first‑ever “Stuff the Bobcat Food Drive” to support the Town of Fowler Food Pantry through the Hometown Assistance Program. Organizers hope the entire community will join in by collecting and donating non‑perishable food items during the 2026 Fowler Family Day celebration. The idea is simple: fill the town’s Bobcat with enough food to help local families through the coming months. But the heart behind it is much bigger. Fowler Family Day has always been about neighbors looking out for one another, and this new effort gives everyone a chance to turn a fun summer gathering into meaningful support for North Country families. Whether it’s a few cans, a box of pasta, or a bag of rice, every donation helps strengthen the safety net that keeps Fowler families fed. Organizers say the drive is a natural extension of what Family Day represents — community pride, shared purpose, and the joy of giving back together. It’s one more way to reconnect, pitch in, and make a difference right here at home.

Fowler Family Day has always been about connection, and this year’s celebration leans even more into the joy of gathering. It’s a chance for Fowler to come together again — to celebrate the people who shaped the town and the neighbors who continue to make it feel like home. Organizers say it best: Come spend time with friends and neighbors. Stay Fowler Strong.

For more information about the 2026 Fowler Family Day, visit www.FowlerNY.gov.

Biggest Boom Yet: GFD’s Fireworks Thrill Spectators

by Rachel Hunter

The North Country community filled the Gouverneur Fairgrounds on Wednesday, July 2 for one of the region’s most anticipated traditions: the Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular, hosted by the Gouverneur Volunteer Fire Department in celebration of its 148 years of service to Gouverneur and surrounding communities. Families arrived early with lawn chairs, blankets, coolers, and plenty of excitement, ready to enjoy an evening of food, fellowship, and the largest fireworks display in the North Country.

The event carries deep roots. Gouverneur’s fire service began in 1868 with the formation of Gouverneur Hose Company No. 1. Though the company briefly disbanded in 1877, it reorganized on January 29, 1878 under the same name and was officially chartered by New York State. From that moment forward, the department has remained in continuous service… a legacy of dedication that stretches nearly a century and a half.

This year’s fireworks were especially meaningful as America celebrates its 250th anniversary. Thanks to generous sponsorships from local businesses and community members, the 2026 show was bigger, brighter, and more explosive than ever. Sponsors included Four Season Storage, RM Conklin Insurance Agency, Casablanca Restaurant, Northern Tier Contracting, First Student, Northland Veterinary Hospital, KT Contracting, Newvine’s NAPA Auto Parts, Gouverneur Savings & Loan, Glider Oil Company Inc., RSI Roofing Inc., MRSLC Search, Fun Unlimited, Don Peck Auctioneer, Blevins Ford, Gouverneur Elementary PTO, Tessmer Law Office, Empire State Mines, Cives Steel Company, G&R Auto Parts, and Hill Top Energy.

The display was once again deployed by Northern New York Display Fireworks of Potsdam, led by longtime pyrotechnician Allan LaValley, whose experience spans more than three decades of launching shows across the region. LaValley and his credentialed team brought a level of precision and artistry that has become a hallmark of the Gouverneur Fireworks Spectacular. Each shell was timed with care, building from slow‑burning color to high‑arching bursts that drew cheers, applause, and plenty of wide‑eyed wonder from the crowd gathered across the fairgrounds.

Families pointed skyward as the show unfolded, with children shouting out their favorite colors and adults pausing conversations to take in the next volley. The rhythm of the display kept spectators fully engaged from the first lift to the final boom.

For many, the grand finale was the moment they had been waiting for. A rapid‑fire cascade of color stretched across the sky in a sweeping arc that seemed to fill the entire horizon. The crowd erupted as the last burst faded, marking another unforgettable year for a show that continues to set the standard for Fourth of July celebrations in the North Country. As the last bursts faded and families packed up to head home, the feeling was unmistakable: another unforgettable Fourth of July moment shared in the heart of Gouverneur.

Admission was a donation in support of the Gouverneur Fire Department. Gates opened at 5 p.m., and North Country families showed strong support as they streamed into the fairgrounds. By dusk, the grounds were packed with spectators settled into their favorite viewing spots. The evening offered plenty beyond the fireworks. Families grabbed food from local vendors, visited displays, and took part in the GFD’s 50‑50 and lottery board raffles. Those entering through the East Barney Street gate were greeted by Truck 2, proudly displaying an American flag.

The Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair Association was also on site, promoting the 2026 fair scheduled for August 4–9, selling beverages and French fries, showcasing raffle prizes, and highlighting the Aug. 8 headline concert featuring Tyler Braden and Chase Matthew. The Fire Department extended sincere appreciation to the Fair Association for providing use of the grounds for this year’s celebration.

The GFD’s Fireworks Spectacular remains a powerful testament to community pride, local history, and the unwavering service of the Gouverneur Volunteer Fire Department. It is a tradition that continues to bring the North Country together year after year. This year’s show reached well beyond the local crowd, drawing visitors from Canada and from several states across the nation who traveled to Gouverneur specifically to experience the awe‑striking display. Many attendees told the Gouverneur Tribune Press they are already planning their return in 2027, a clear sign that the Spectacular has grown from a beloved hometown celebration into a true regional summer destination.

NYSP: Gouverneur man injured in motorcycle-motor vehicle collision

On June 23, 2026, at approximately 1:40 p.m., New York State Police responded to State Highway 58 in the town of Gouverneur for a motor vehicle collision involving a motorcycle.

An investigation determined that a 2016 Harley-Davidson motorcycle was traveling eastbound on State Highway 58 when the operator failed to observe a 2015 Toyota RAV4 that had stopped in the roadway with its turn signal activated while awaiting to make a left turn onto Old Route 58. The motorcycle subsequently struck the rear of the Toyota, causing the operator to be ejected from the motorcycle.

The operator of the motorcycle was identified as James M. Wright, age 65, of Gouverneur. Wright was airlifted to SUNY Upstate Medical Center with serious, life-threatening injuries. He remains hospitalized and is currently listed in stable condition.

The operator of the Toyota was identified as Brandon W. Corbine, age 39, of Gouverneur. Corbine was not injured in the collision.

This investigation remains ongoing.

First Presbyterian Church of Gouverneur Receives $13.5K Sacred Sites Grant

The New York Landmarks Conservancy has announced 21 Sacred Sites Grants totaling $287,500 awarded to 18 historic religious properties throughout New York State. This includes $13,500 to First Presbyterian Church of Gouverneur to help fund stained-glass restoration.

Located in St. Lawrence County about an hour northeast of Watertown, the First Presbyterian Church was designed by architect Sidney Rose Badgley in the Gothic Revival style and built in 1893. Masonry consists of both roughhewn and smoothly dressed Gouverneur marble (alternatively known as "St. Lawrence" or "Whitney" marble.) An “Akron Plan” or auditorium-style worship space, separated from a chapel and classrooms by sliding etched glass doors, has a raked floor that slopes to broad, raised dais, which is situated against the east wall and framed at its rear by a large pipe organ.

First Presbyterian Church reaches nearly 500 people through programs such as a St. Lawrence County Head Start site, concerts, community workshops and seminars, and art exhibits.

“We are pleased to help another 18 historic religious institutions throughout the State,” said Peg Breen, President, The New York Landmarks Conservancy. “Religious buildings tell the story of our history, our immigration patterns and our architectural growth. They also anchor communities. Collectively, these grantees serve 94,500 persons beyond their congregations with social service and cultural programming.”

The Sacred Sites Program provides congregations with matching grants for planning and implementing exterior restoration projects, along with technical assistance, and workshops. Since 1986, the program has pledged over 1,700 grants totaling over $14.75 million to more than 880 religious institutions statewide, helping fund over $820 million in repair and restoration projects.

The New York Landmarks Conservancy: The New York Landmarks Conservancy, a private non-profit organization, has led the effort to preserve and protect New York ’s architectural legacy for more than 50 years. Since its founding, the Conservancy has loaned and granted more than $62 million, which has leveraged almost $1 billion in nearly 2,000 restoration projects throughout New York, revitalizing communities, providing economic stimulus, and supporting local jobs. The Conservancy has also offered countless hours of pro bono technical advice to building owners, both nonprofit organizations, and individuals. The Conservancy’s work has saved more than a thousand buildings across the City and State, protecting New York’s distinctive architectural heritage for residents and visitors alike today, and for future generations. For more information, please visit www.nylandmarks.org.

7th Annual Ride for Rocket Jeff is June 20

by Michelle Fuller

The 7th Annual Ride for Rocket Jeff will be held on Saturday, June 20th. 

Christopher Fuller, aka “Rocket Jeff,” lost his life on June 21, 2019 in a tragic dirt bike accident in the Town of Fowler.  As well, the ride memorializes, Chris’s father, Vernon Fuller Jr., who passed away in a tragic accident on June 12, 2021 in the Town of Fowler. 

The Ride will be starting at McNikki’s Time Out Lounge in Hailesboro. Registration is from 10:30 AM to 12 PM with the ride leaving at noon. 

There will be raffle tickets available where you can enter a chance to win a 2026 Polaris Ranger 500. The raffle tickets are available now at Fun Unlimited and can be purchased from Nick Fuller at 315-523-3865 or Michelle Fuller at 315-486-8173.  They are one ticket for $25 or 4 for $60.  A second place winner will win $500 cash, and a third place winner will win $300 cash.  

There will be a chicken bar-b-que held at the last stop of the ride at the Belfort Inn in Belfort which is in Lewis County, owned by Nicholas and Brooke Fuller.  There will be poker hands you can enter at McNikki’s and pick up cards at the establishments that the riders will stop at throughout the ride. As well, door prizes and the raffle will be drawn at 6:00 PM at the Belfort Inn. You do not need to be present to win. 

Anyone that  already ordered and paid for the commemorative T-shirts or sweatshirts which honor Rocket Jeff and Vernon, can pick theirs up at McNikkis starting at 10:30 AM the morning of the ride. 

The proceeds from the ride will provide scholarships to students at Southwest Tech (BOCES) in Fowler and helmets as well. On Tuesday, June 16th, at Hermon-Dekalb School, the Southwest Tech BOCES Annual Recognition Ceremony was held. The scholarships were given to two students chosen by their instructors in each of the following classes: the Building Trades class, the Electrical Engineering class, and the Welding Class. As well, there were ten welding helmets given out to ten students chosen by the their Southwest Tech instructor, Jared Prashaw.

Christopher “Rocket Jeff” Fuller attended Southwest Tech BOCES in 2014 and 2015 in the welding class each year and became state certified. 

His father, Vernon, was in the Building Trades class in 1987 and 1988 and excelled as an electrician.

For more information about the 7th Annual Ride for Rocket Jeff, contact Nick Fuller at 315-523-3865 or Michelle Fuller at 315-486-8173.

Gouverneur CSD Highlights Summer Learning Opportunities

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur CSD Board of Education heard the Wildcat News Report at its June 1 meeting, as Gouverneur CSD Superintendent of Schools Jackie Kelly took one final opportunity to remind families about the full range of summer learning programs available to Gouverneur students from Pre‑Kindergarten through Grade 12. Supt. Kelly emphasized that the district is once again committed to offering meaningful, accessible summer learning experiences for all resident students.

For elementary and middle school students, the district will again offer a free summer school program, open to all resident children in Pre‑K through Grade 8. Transportation will be provided, and both breakfast and lunch will be available at no cost. The program will run from Tuesday, July 7 through Thursday, August 13, 2026, with students attending Tuesdays through Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

The elementary and middle school summer program will focus on strengthening reading, writing, and math skills through fun, engaging activities. Students will also have opportunities to visit the library and participate in hands‑on learning experiences designed to support academic growth while maintaining the joy of summer. Families who have not yet registered their children are encouraged to do so by contacting their child’s teacher or the main office. “I am very proud that we can offer this opportunity to our students and their families once again this year,” Supt. Kelly said. “This is a great way to spend a few hours, a couple of days a week, having fun with friends while keeping up on the reading and math skills necessary to move on to and be successful at the next grade level.”

At the high school level, Gouverneur CSD will once again host its own in‑person, in‑house summer school, offered in two sessions. Session 1 will run from Tuesday, July 7 through Monday, July 27, 2026, operating Mondays through Thursdays. Courses offered during Session 1 include English, Global Studies, Spanish, and possibly Fundamentals of Algebra. Session 2 will run from Tuesday, July 28 through Monday, August 17, 2026, also Mondays through Thursdays. Courses for Session 2 will include English, Global Studies, Algebra I, and possibly U.S. History, Biology, Earth & Space Sciences, and Geometry. Health, Economics, and Government will run for the full six‑week period as they are required for initial credit.

The district is currently seeking certified teachers interested in teaching Life Science: Biology, Earth & Space Sciences, U.S. History & Government, and Health. Teachers are encouraged to contact GHS Principal Nicole Donaldson for more information.

As in previous years, the high school summer program will be open to students from surrounding school districts. Due to ongoing construction at the high school, all high school summer school classes will be held at the Gouverneur Middle School this summer. Parents seeking additional details are encouraged to reach out to their child’s teachers or the main office.

In addition to academic programming, Gouverneur CSD will once again operate its summer feeding program, open to the entire community. The Gouverneur Elementary School and the Gouverneur Middle School buildings will serve free breakfast and lunch to any child 18 years old or younger, regardless of enrollment in summer school. Meals will also be provided to all students attending the district’s summer programs. Dates and times for the summer feeding program are available on the district’s Facebook page and at www.gcsk12.org.

The next regular meeting of the Gouverneur CSD Board of Education will be held on June 15, 5:30 p.m., in the GHS Auditorium. For more information, visit www.gcsk12.org.

Voters approve Gouverneur CSD’s $50M budget proposal

by Rachel Hunter

Voters in the Gouverneur Central School District approved the district’s 2026–27 budget proposal during the annual school budget vote held Tuesday, May 19. The spending plan of $50,483,279 authorizes the Board of Education to fund general operations for the coming school year and to levy the taxes necessary to support that budget. The proposition passed by a wide margin, with 141 votes in favor and 46 opposed, reflecting continued community support for the district’s academic programs, staffing, and student services.

In addition to the budget vote, residents elected three members to the Board of Education for three‑year terms beginning July 1, 2026. The top three vote‑getters were all seated. Brooke Bush led the field with 150 votes, followed by Todd Bates with 140, and Logan Buckmaster with 139. All three will serve through June 2029. Six additional write‑in candidates each received one vote. Bush and Bates, both incumbents, will continue their service on the board, while Buckmaster will begin his first full term.

The next regular meeting of the Gouverneur CSD Board of Education will be held on Monday, June 1, 5:30 p.m., in the GHS Auditorium. The public is encouraged to use Entrance 10. For more info: www.gcsk12.org.

Gouverneur’s NY Forward Projects Announced

Governor Kathy Hochul has announced awards for a total of 18 transformational projects for the North Country as part of two economic development programs: the Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) and NY Forward. Ten projects were announced for the Village of Malone, the Round 8 winner of a $10 million DRI award; three projects were announced for the Village of Gouverneur, a Round 3 winner of a $4.5 million NY Forward award; and five were announced for the Hamlet of Keeseville, also a Round 3 winner of a $4.5 million NY Forward award.

“I am proud that the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and New York Forward programs are bringing eighteen transformational projects to the North Country,” Governor Hochul said. “By investing in the region’s economic development, we create more liveable and affordable communities for New Yorkers to raise their families and gather with neighbors.”

DRI and NY Forward communities developed Strategic Implementation Plans (SIPs), which create a vision for the future of their downtown and identify and recommend a slate of complementary, transformative and implementable projects that support that vision. The SIPs are guided by a Local Planning Committee (LPC) comprised of local and regional leaders, stakeholders and community representatives, with the assistance of an assigned consultant and DOS staff, all of whom conduct extensive community outreach and engagement when determining projects. The projects selected for funding from the SIP were identified as having the greatest potential to jumpstart revitalization and generate new opportunities for long-term growth.

The Village of Gouverneur, located along the Oswegatchie River, has a strong sense of community centered around its compact downtown. Home to many festivals and events, including the Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair, the community offers a variety of entertainment options attracting visitors from across the region. Gouverneur will capitalize on its historic charm to create a vibrant and expanding downtown business community, a safe, friendly, and walkable environment and highlight its proximity to major regional employers to enhance quality of life. These efforts will strengthen resilience and increase economic, recreational and cultural opportunities for residents and visitors.

The three Gouverneur NY Forward projects, totaling $4.5 million, include:

Improve Downtown Walkability Through Streetscape Enhancements ($2,358,000): Enhance pedestrian connectivity, safety, and accessibility throughout the downtown core of Gouverneur with new sidewalks, clearly marked crosswalks and pedestrian-scale amenities such as lighting, street trees and street furniture. The installation of wayfinding signage will guide visitors and highlight downtown amenities.

Create Pedestrian Plaza to Connect Downtown Amenities ($1,842,000): Transform the area behind the buildings on E Main Street to create a welcoming pedestrian zone and public space with the purpose of improving connections to businesses and providing opportunities for business expansion.

Establish a Small Project Fund for Downtown Gouverneur ($300,000): Establish a locally managed matching fund to undertake a range of smaller downtown revitalization projects while leveraging private investment to achieve an even greater impact in downtown Gouverneur.

To receive funding from either the DRI or NY Forward program, localities must be certified under Governor Hochul's Pro-Housing Communities Program, which recognizes and rewards municipalities actively working to unlock their housing potential and encourages others to follow suit. After becoming certified, localities have exclusive access to up to $750 million in discretionary State funding, including DRI and NY Forward. Since the launch of the Pro-Housing Communities Program, funds awarded to Pro-Housing Communities throughout the state have supported up to 20,000 more homes. To date, more than 410 communities across New York have been certified, including the Villages of Malone and Gouverneur and the Towns of AuSable and Chesterfield

Many of the projects funded through the DRI and NY Forward support Governor Hochul’s affordability agenda. The DRI has invested in the creation of more than 5,000 units of housing — more than 2,000 of which (40 percent) are affordable or workforce housing. The programs committed $9 million to 12 projects that provide affordable or free childcare and childcare worker training. The DRI and NY Forward have also invested in the creation of public parks, public art — such as murals and sculptures — and art, music and cultural venues that provide free outdoor recreation and entertainment opportunities.

New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said, “The North Country’s communities are defined by their strong sense of place, natural beauty and deep-rooted resilience, and these investments will help ensure they continue to thrive for generations to come. Through the DRI and NY Forward, we are supporting projects that strengthen local economies, enhance public spaces and expand opportunities for residents and visitors alike. Each project reflects the unique character of its community while advancing a shared vision for sustainable, locally driven growth. We are proud to partner with North Country communities as they bring these transformative plans to life.”

Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “The Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs are fueling strategic investments that honor the North Country’s past while building a vibrant future. By supporting these 18 projects in Malone, Gouverneur and Keeseville, we are creating quality housing, expanded small business hubs and accessible public areas necessary for lasting regional growth, improving daily life for residents and strengthening the North Country’s economic foundation.”

New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, “Through the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward, HCR is partnering with communities across the North Country to create stronger downtowns, expand housing opportunities and support long-term economic growth. The $19 million awarded to Malone, Gouverneur and Keeseville will help revitalize historic buildings, create new housing and mixed-use developments, improve pedestrian connections, and invest in community spaces that make these communities more vibrant and welcoming. By connecting these investments to the Pro-Housing Communities Program, we are helping communities grow in ways that increase housing supply and affordability. Together, these projects will create more resilient, connected and prosperous communities for residents, businesses and visitors alike.”

North Country Regional Economic Development Council Co-Chairs James McKenna and Dr. Kathryn Morris said, “Today’s announcement marks a milestone for the North Country as we move forward with projects that leverage our region’s unique downtowns and beautiful natural assets. From the riverfront overlooks in Malone to the Stone Mill revitalization in Keeseville and new pedestrian zones in Gouverneur, these investments are proof of what can be achieved through collaborative, community-based planning. The North Country Regional Economic Development Council is excited to see these projects move forward and spark new private investment.”

Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall said, “The Village of Gouverneur would like to thank Governor Hochul and New York State for this announcement. We are quite pleased to be part of the Round 3 NY Forward, and are ready to get started on these projects that will help rehabilitate our downtown area. We are very happy and thankful that the Governor is making this much needed investment in our community.”

About the Downtown Revitalization Initiative: The Downtown Revitalization Initiative was created in 2016 to accelerate and expand the revitalization of downtowns and neighborhoods in all ten regions of the state to serve as centers of activity and catalysts for investment. Led by the Department of State with assistance from Empire State Development, Homes and Community Renewal and NYSERDA, the DRI represents an unprecedented and innovative "plan-then-act" strategy that couples strategic planning with immediate implementation and results in compact, walkable downtowns that are a key ingredient to helping New York State rebuild its economy from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as to achieving the State's bold climate goals by promoting the use of public transit and reducing dependence on private vehicles. Through nine rounds, the DRI will have awarded a total of $1 billion to 101 communities across every region of the State. The Governor has proposed another $100 million for the program in her 2026-2027 Executive Budget.

About the NY Forward Program: First announced as part of the 2022 Budget, Governor Hochul created the NY Forward program to build on the momentum created by the DRI. The program works in concert with the DRI to accelerate and expand the revitalization of smaller and rural downtowns throughout the State so that all communities can benefit from the State’s revitalization efforts, regardless of size, character, needs and challenges. NY Forward communities are supported by a professional planning consultant and team of State agency experts led by DOS to develop a Strategic Investment Plan that includes a slate of transformative, complementary and readily implementable projects. NY Forward projects are appropriately scaled to the size of each community; projects may include building renovation and redevelopment, new construction or creation of new or improved public spaces and other projects that enhance specific cultural and historical qualities that define and distinguish the small-town charm that defines these municipalities. Through four rounds, the NY Forward program will have awarded a total of $400 million to 77 communities across every region of the State.