Onondaga County is trying to keep the momentum going in revitalizing the west side of Onondaga Lake by supporting business and neighborhood improvements in Solvay and Geddes. County Executive Ryan McMahon says nearly a million dollars is available for storefronts to improve their facades along Milton Ave.
And, $2.3 million is ready to loan to homeowners at just one percent interest. McMahon says it builds upon earlier efforts to boost a previously neglected area.
"This is about investing in Main Street, and Main Street in Solvay is Milton Ave. Why is that a good investment? Because of the investments done at the fair and at the lake. This is a community that's been hit hardest by the pollution that was on this side of the lake for decades, generations."
He says the homeowner loan program has been adjusted to allow larger loans of up to $25,000, and, for a longer term…up to 10 years. Other improvements include two new homes, and $1 million for mixed use development…both in Solvay.
Separately, but on a similar note, eligible homeowners county-wide will have access to emergency home grants thanks to a $100,000 grant from Bank of America to Home Headquarters. Executive Director Kerry Quaglia says they’ve been helping people address challenges during since the pandemic began.
"We're continuing to help people who are in crisis because of COVID-19, and have hardships because of COVID-19. We're going to be able to help maybe 50 homeowners fix those problems that they're having...smaller repairs like a hot water tank or a set of steps."
Quaglia says the goal is to help homeowners maintain healthy and safe housing. More information on the loans and grants is availablehere.
