Staff Report / January 1, 2026
New York State officials have announced a fresh round of economic development and planning awards under the 2025 Regional Economic Development Council (REDC) initiative, directing millions of dollars into community-enhancing projects throughout the Finger Lakes region. The funding supports infrastructure upgrades, tourism initiatives, environmental improvements, housing and planning efforts across multiple counties.
While the awards span the region, Yates County secured several notable investments that are expected to support cultural, environmental and economic growth in local communities.
Yates County Funding Highlights
New Museum Facility in Branchport — $2 Million
The Finger Lakes Cultural & Natural History Museum — also known as the Saunders Finger Lakes Museum — will receive a $2 million state award to build a new facility in Branchport. The project aims to expand year-round museum programming focused on the natural history, culture and ecology of the Finger Lakes. The new museum is expected to enhance tourism and educational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
Canandaigua Lake Watershed Drainage Improvements — $750,000
Yates County is part of a joint project with Ontario County to improve roadside drainage networks feeding into Canandaigua Lake. The $750,000 award will be used to reduce erosion, limit sedimentation and curb nutrient runoff — a key component of protecting water quality and bolstering flood resilience around one of the region’s most iconic lakes.
Regional Food System Infrastructure — $440,000
Included in a broader, multi-county initiative led by Foodlink, Yates County will benefit from a $440,000 investment aimed at expanding food access infrastructure, community engagement and training capacity across the Finger Lakes region. This support enhances local food system resilience and connectivity.
Winery Expansion in Dundee — $100,000
Domaine Leseurre Winery in Dundee received $100,000 to support expansion efforts. This funding is intended to boost production capacity and enhance the visitor experience, building on the Finger Lakes’ strong reputation in wine tourism.
What This Means for Yates County
The mix of awards reflects a broad strategy to support cultural amenities, environmental sustainability, food systems and tourism — all sectors that contribute to economic opportunity and quality of life in Yates County. The new museum project may serve as a major seasonal anchor for tourism, while investments in watershed and food infrastructure support long-term environmental health and community resilience.
State REDC funding overall continues to be a key tool for rural and small-town communities to access resources for transformative projects without shouldering the full cost locally.
