CORTLAND COUNTY, NY – The Cortland County Industrial Development Agency (IDA) has been awarded $525,875 in federal funding from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to support the replacement of the Homer Avenue bridge located on the former Contento property, 165 US Route 11 in Homer.
While the bridge currently provides access to an undeveloped area, its replacement is an important proactive investment in public safety, flood mitigation, and long-term community planning. The project will address vulnerabilities in the existing structure and reduce the risk of damage from severe weather events, helping protect surrounding infrastructure.
“This funding allows us to take a forward-looking approach to infrastructure,” said Melanie Vilardi, Executive Director of the Cortland County IDA. “Even though the area beyond the bridge is currently undeveloped, replacing this structure now helps reduce future risks, improves resiliency, and ensures the community is prepared for future growth and emergency needs.”
The grant was awarded through FEMA’s Disaster Supplemental Grant Program, which supports projects that reduce the potential for future disaster-related damage. Replacing the bridge now will help prevent costly repairs or emergency responses in the future and supports responsible stewardship of public resources.
The project reflects Cortland County’s ongoing commitment to building resilient infrastructure, planning for the future, and protecting residents from the impacts of extreme weather.
Additional information regarding project timelines and next steps will be shared as planning progresses.