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Developer eyes mixed‑use plan for former Borden plant; ACIDA pursues Brownfields funding and Phase II work
Summary
Assistant Director Melissa Pingitore updated the committee on ACIDA activity: microenterprise funding replenished federally, an RFP for a new consultant contract, developer interest in a mixed‑use redevelopment at the old Borden plant with a requested Phase I assessment, and Friendship properties awaiting EPA QAPP approval for Phase II.
Assistant Director Melissa Pingitore told the Planning & Economic Development Committee that federal microenterprise funding has been replenished and that Allegany County Industrial Development Agency (ACIDA) expects to administer the next round. She said ACIDA will issue an RFP to replace the Harrison Studio consultant contract with a new three‑year agreement and possible extension.
On redevelopment, Pingitore said developer Noah Heyman — who owns The Old Mill restaurant in Alfred — contacted ACIDA seeking grant support for a Phase I environmental assessment of the former Borden plant as part of a mixed‑use redevelopment concept that could include event space, a restaurant, retail and lodging. "He is exploring a mixed‑use redevelopment with complementary businesses, event space, a possible restaurant, a boutique, and a hotel," Pingitore said. She added that the Brownfields team will seek grant funding for an initial Phase I environmental assessment.
Pingitore also reported that the Friendship properties are moving toward Phase II work but remain on hold pending EPA approval of a Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP), which has been delayed by EPA staffing constraints. Regarding ACIDA finances, she said there is currently no outside funding for the Gateway/ACIDA building project and that IDA funds would be used; reapplication for an ARC grant is being considered. Chair Gretchen Hanchett asked about available resources for small business owners navigating projects of this size; Pingitore listed Harrison Studio, Incubator Works, ACCORD, the Small Business Administration and the Economic Development team as local supports.
Legislator Dwight “Mike” Healy requested a list of commonly used acronyms; Pingitore said an acronym list may be available on ACIDA’s website and that Director Dr. Craig Clark is reviewing a pilot information sheet expected next month.
