Published: August 13, 2008 11:46 pm            

NIAGARA COUNTY: Casino money will help fund two NT projects

Niagara County’s people-mover concept is heading to the classroom.

Students from Niagara University will soon be asked to consider the potential costs and benefits of developing a system to connect county visitors to the attractions they might like to see during their stay.

Members of the Legislature’s Economic Development Committee on Wednesday supported a resolution from Legislator John Ceretto, R-Lewiston, that asked, in part, to use $2,500 in county casino cash to allow students from the university to study the feasibility of a pilot program that would establish a trolley link between Niagara Falls and the Village of Lewiston. Ceretto said Niagara University professor William Angus has agreed to include a review of the people-mover concept as part of his undergraduate curriculum this fall.

“It will probably start off with the basics and go from there,” Ceretto said of the proposed student analysis. “I’m hoping they will see what I see — that this is an economic engine for Niagara County.”

The county’s Economic Development Committee has previously offered its support for a test version of what is being called the “Explore Niagara” transportation program. Planners are hoping to launch the test project during the 2009 tourist season. They also intend to hold a series of forums this fall to gauge public interest on the issue.

Ceretto’s request for the feasibility study was included in a $10,000 package of pet projects in his district that he is looking to fund with casino dollars.

Another resolution requesting casino funds was submitted by Legislators William Ross, C-Wheatfield, and Danny Sklarski, D-Wheatfield, who asked for $2,500 to support the Fraternal Order of the Eagles Local 1411 and its inaugural Smokin’ Eagles Barbecue Championship which will take place this weekend at the Summit Mall.

A third request was made by North Tonawanda Legislators Peter Smolinski, Andrew McNulty and Paul Wojtaszek who asked for $5,000 to support Canal Fest of the Tonawandas, Inc. and $2,500 for the Herschell Carrousel in the city.

Both resolutions were approved by the committee. All three will be brought before the full Legislature for approval Sept. 2.

Contact reporter Mark Scheer at 282-2311, ext. 2250.

        

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