By Conor Eckert, Incoming President & CEO of the Orange County Partnership

Early this month, we hosted the SelectUSA Summit delegation of over 20 Taiwanese companies visiting the United States to explore investment opportunities in the country. The delegation was made up of executives in the semiconductor and advanced technology sectors – from computer hardware manufacturing to semiconductor design firms. Additionally, we hosted leadership from our partners at the Orange County Chamber of Commerce, Empire State Development, TECO, and others.

Over the last year, our economic development team has focused on building international relationships in the advanced technology sector – including visiting Taiwan last month. Our Taiwan visit has resulted in a substantial increase in foreign direct investment opportunities and new site selection opportunities for companies seeking expansion into the United States market.

By John Jordan

CHESTER—The New York State Department of Transportation held a well-attended public open house on May 6 here at the Chester Senior Center to discuss proposed changes to area interchanges (Exits 126, 127 and 128) on Route 17 as part of the $1-billion “NYS Route 17 Mobility & Access Improvements Project,” also known as the Route 17 expansion project.

NYSDOT officials and project consultants were on hand to explain the current proposals involving Exit 126 (Route 94-Chester), Exit 127 (Greycourt Road to Sugar Loaf and Warwick) and Exit 128 (Oxford Depot, Craigville Road-County Route 51). In an interview with NYSDOT Project Manager Mark Kruk, P.E., the scoping report proposes to improve the Exit 126 Chester exit by creating a “Single Point Urban Interchange” that would feature one traffic light for both eastbound and westbound ramps instead of the existing two traffic lights. The plan also calls for additional ramp capacity and other improvements to all ramps, he noted.

NEW WINDSOR—New York State officials announced on May 1 the reopening of the iconic Storm King Art Center with new buildings and landscapes, including visitor welcome pavilions with consolidated parking and accessible amenities; the construction of a conservation, fabrication, and maintenance building; and a holistic approach to landscape stewardship and environmental sustainability.

The $53-million project was supported by a $11.3-million investment from the New York State Council on the Arts, Empire State Development and the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority.

“Storm King Art Center combines world-class art and culture with one of the most beautiful landscapes in the world,” Gov. Kathy Hochul said. “With this incredible expansion of Storm King Art Center, the Hudson Valley will benefit from increased tourism, expanded opportunities for growth and the restorative power of art and culture.”

Storm King Art Center offers local, national, and international audiences a chance to discover sculpture amid 500 acres of Hudson Valley landscape. In response to growth, Storm King launched a capital project to enhance the visitor experience and protect its art, nature, and people.