Grant to Help Rochester Insulated Glass Expand, Create Jobs

Deborah VanAmerongen, Commissioner of the NYS Division of Housing and Community Renewal (DHCR) today announced a $515,000 in NYS Community Development Block Grant (NYS CDBG) award to the Town of Manchester in Ontario County to help Rochester Insulated Glass, Inc. (RIG) expand and create 40 jobs, 30 of which will be available to low and moderate-income workers.

RIG produces insulated, tempered, laminated and heat-strengthened glass for the construction industry. The funding, approved today by DHCR's Housing Trust Fund Corporation, will make it possible for the nearly 40-year old company to acquire the new machinery and equipment it needs to complete its Phase 2 expansion. The company's Phase 1 expansion included increasing the size of the facility to 198,000 square feet and electrical upgrades.

Governor David A. Paterson said, "As the economy has shed jobs at an alarming rate, it is crucial that we support local businesses with the capability to expand their operations and hire new workers. Rochester Insulated Glass is a model organization that has consistently looked out for its employees and its community, and today we are proud to offer them a NYS Community Development Block Grant."

DHCR Commissioner Deborah VanAmerongen said, "Rochester Insulated Glass is a well-established company with an excellent reputation in the community. This award will allow RIG to increase its commitment to New York State and Ontario County and create jobs with the health care benefits families need. Congratulations to RIG and the town of Manchester."

Manchester Town Supervisor is William Eddinger, Jr. said, "This grant will help enhance what is already a vital part of our community. Rochester Insulated Glass has offered employment opportunities that have helped offset layoffs in other local plants, and the commitment to the community that owner Rick Wolk and his late father have demonstrated has been outstanding. The company has offered a great opportunity not only to the town, but to the village of Manchester where it is located."

The NYS CDBG program is federally funded and administered by DHCR's Office of Community Renewal. The program provides grants to small communities in order to: ensure decent affordable housing, provide services to the most vulnerable, create jobs and expand business opportunities, and improve community facilities and services.

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