WNY Regional Economic Development Council Project Provides Permanent Location for Olean’s Farmers Market See photo of Lincoln Square here Empire State Development today announced the completion of Lincoln Square, a $1.25 million project providing permanent buildings to house the Olean Farmers Market and other events. The project, located at 100 East State Street includes an open-air pavilion structure for vendors, restrooms, park furniture,landscaping, an outdoor bistro facility, and lighting. Located in the center of Olean’s North Union business district, the market is a destination that will draw visitors from outside areas, contribute to the vibrancy and walkability of the neighborhood, and increase sales for area businesses. Empire State Development President, CEO & Commissioner Howard Zemsky said, “The new Lincoln Square is the latest piece of the puzzle in the ‘Walkable Olean’ plan and continues this downtown’s revitalization. The permanent event space will draw more people to the area to shop at the farmers market, attend community events and boost local businesses.” "Our transformational investments through the Regional Economic Development Council are delivering real progress for Olean,” said Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul. “Lincoln Square provides a new home for the Olean farmers market alongside event space and other amenities. This new space will make the city more walkable and welcoming for both residents and visitors. The Lincoln Square project builds on our investment in the area as part of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative, advancing progress and strengthening Olean’s role as an economic, educational, and recreational hub in Western New York.” ​ The Rural Enterprise Association of Proprietors (REAP) has held farmers markets in various locations in Olean since 1988. The new Lincoln Square facility, which is an extension of the City’s “Walkable Olean” project, provides the market with its first permanent year-round site, offering shoppers a variety of locally grown, produced, crafted and raised items. From soaps to vegetables, blueberries to ice cream, prime rib to apple pies, the market has more than a dozen vendors with literally hundreds of choices and options. Part of the mission of the Market is to only offer items produced or grown locally, by locals. Each vendor at the Saturday Farmers Market is a REAP member who is happy to discuss their products and wares with the public. New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said, “We thank the ESD for supporting construction of these new buildings to house the Olean’s Farmers Market. Our farmers markets are a win-win, helping our agricultural partners expand their consumer base, while also providing more New Yorkers with access to fresh, delicious, local food and beverages. To help with the market construction, Empire State Development, through the 2016 Regional Council Capital Fund (Round 6), awarded capital grant funding totaling $220,000. The New York State Senate provided an additional $600,000 legislative grant. WNYREDC Chair and SolEpoxy CEO Jeff Belt said, “I am grateful to Governor Cuomo as well as my colleagues on the Regional Economic Development Council and our many community partners for their support and dedication to making the Lincoln Square project a reality. The investment in this new destination supports local businesses, creates jobs and attracts new visitors to enjoy Olean’s walkable downtown.” Olean Mayor William Aiello said, “We are very pleased to have the construction of our new Walkable Olean attraction completed and ready for business. Lincoln Square is another attraction in our walkable community that will be used for the farmers market and a variety of community and private events.” Stephanie Beneng, Olean Farmers Market manager said, “Local vendors at the farmers market will benefit greatly from having a new permanent location to sell their goods. Lincoln Square will allow us to hold the market even when the weather is less than ideal. We have already experienced an increase in people interested in setting up shop at the new location. We look forward to welcoming additional local farmers, craft makers, and new customers to the vibrant downtown district.” For more information about the Olean Farmers Market click here. About the Regional Economic Development Councils The Regional Economic Development Council (REDC) initiative is a key component of Governor Cuomo's approach to State investment and economic development. In 2011, Governor Cuomo established 10 Regional Councils to develop long-term strategic plans for economic growth for their regions. The Councils are public-private partnerships made up of local experts and stakeholders from business, academia, local government, and non-governmental organizations. The Regional Councils have redefined the way New York invests in jobs and economic growth by putting in place a community-based, bottom up approach and establishing a competitive process for State resources. After seven rounds of the REDC process, over $5.4 billion has been awarded to support job creation and community development projects consistent with the 10 regions' strategic plans, projecting to create and retain more than 220,000 jobs. For more information on the Regional Councils, visit www.regionalcouncils.ny.gov. Contacts: Pamm Lent (Governor’s office) | [email protected] | 716-846-8309 Laura Magee (ESD) | [email protected] | 716-846-8239