Lieutenant Governor Bob Duffy says the Finger Lakes Museum project will serve as an economic engine, boosting tourism in the region.
"You have the lakes, you have wine country, you have great bed and breakfasts, hotels and motels. You have agriculture and shopping. There's so much that is here that is a draw."
Duffy joined officials of the Finger Lakes Museum Thursday for a groundbreaking ceremony of the Discovery Center in Branchport, near Keuka Lake. The center is the first phase of a multi-phase project showcasing the history of the Finger Lakes region. Duffy says the Finger Lakes Regional Economic Development Council identified the museum as a priority project awarding $2.3 million dollars last year.
"It goes in with the governor's priorities and our priorities across the state," Duffy adds. "That tourism and arts and cultural are economic drives. It's not just feeling good and visiting a place, it's about creating jobs, it's about creating economic vitality. So it's a win win."
The Finger Lakes Museum is projected to create 330 construction jobs, 100 full-time positions and generate more than $12 million annually through tourism.
Project planners anticipate opening the museum in April.