In order for the towns to receive funding, the application must show that there is sufficient need and interest from local businesses. FCEDC has launched an online Interest and Eligibility Form (https://form.jotform.com/232576659529169) that small business owners should use to submit project proposals. The deadline to submit proposals is Dec. 11, 2023.

A Rail Trail Small Business Grant will be designed to boost economic development, job creation, and the overall experience for residents and visitors along the Adirondack Rail Trail and/or Adirondack Railroad. The grant will include specific eligibility requirements and criteria to identify and prioritize businesses that align with the grant’s goals. Individual projects could be funded for up to $35,000.

Businesses must meet the following minimum criteria:

– Have five or fewer employees.

– Create at least one full-time position for someone from a low-to-moderate income household. If no job is created, the owner must be from a low-to-moderate income household.

– Provide a minimum 10% cash equity contribution.

– Be principally engaged in one of the following business sectors: Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation; Accommodation and Food Services; Retail Trade.

– Be located in the towns of Harrietstown or Tupper Lake (including businesses within village limits of each town).

For more information, visit www.adirondackfrontier.com or contact Rachel Child, Community Development Manager, at rachel@adirondackfrontier.com or 518-481-8211.

“We see the Adirondack Rail Trail Small Business Grant as a great opportunity to breathe new life into our community,” said Rick Dattola, Tupper Lake town supervisor.

“Our town is committed to fostering an environment where small businesses can thrive, and we believe the Rail Trail Small Business Grant will be instrumental in achieving that goal,” Harrietstown town Supervisor Jordanna Mallach said.

The 34-mile Adirondack Rail Trail from Lake Placid to Tupper Lake is currently being constructed in three phases, and the first section from Lake Placid to Saranac Lake is now open for hikers, bicyclists and casual walkers. In the winter, it is a shared-use trail for snowmobilers, snowshoers, fat bike users and cross-country skiers. It is owned and maintained by the state Department of Environmental Conservation.