BY JEFF CHUDZINSKI
North Country This Week

MASSENA — Planned renovations of the former JJ Newberry building received a boost with funding recently being awarded through the Regional Economic Development Council Initiative.

GoCo Massena LLC, who owns and operates the building, will receive $163,680 for the first phase of renovations.

“This award represents a significant investment and commitment to downtown Massena. Completion of this project will restore a blighted property with a rich and celebrated history. It will serve as an additional catalyst, spurring economic development, creating jobs, and encouraging further investment in the area,” said Monique Chatland, village administrator.

Funds are expected to be used for the primary structural and environmental issues, according to previous reports.

The redevelopment of the building will see a mixed-use facility upon completion, which will be home to office spaces, retail options and residential spaces.

“Once finished, this project will create a mixed-use development in the heart of downtown Massena and repurpose the largest building in the core of the Village,” Chatland said.

Village officials submitted an application for consideration in the fifth round of DRI awards, with the JJ Newberry building being a focal point for their vision of a revitalized downtown.

“The Village of Massena greatly appreciates the significant investment GoCo Massena LLC has dedicated to the restoration of downtown Massena, as well as NYS Empire State Development for their continued support and commitment to the Village of Massena,” Chatland said.

William and Susan Fiacco, owners of the investment firm GoCo Ventures LLC, have also completed significant work on the Old Mill, located on Water St., which they intend to open as a brewery and pub, with apartments upstairs.

A second facility, also on Water St., is also in development, with the intention of opening a value-added dairy plant.

Products would be produced on site, with a retail storefront in the same building for those who wish to purchase products like ice cream and cheese.