Cattaraugus County Industrial Development Agency
CCIDA Past Projects and Future
By Kate Bartlett
This past year was an incredibly successful and exciting year of projects for the Cattaraugus County Industrial Development Agency. With over 20 projects bringing projected an unprecedented amount of money to the area, the CCIDA remains invested in the county’s economic growth. This year alone, their projects totaled $168,874,935.
The CCIDA has been facilitating economic growth to Cattaraugus County for over 53 years. Authorized and empowered by the State of New York the organization aims to “retain, promote and assist business development thereby advancing job opportunities and economic welfare to the people of Cattaraugus County.”
Corey Wiktor, Executive of the CCIDA, provided a glimpse at what 2024 brought to the area, and looks forward to what’s to come in 2025. “It was such an exciting year for our area,” says Corey. “We have so many great projects happening, multimillion dollar investments that will make such an incredible difference in strengthening the economy of our county.”
One of their largest investments of nearly $1 billion dollars since its groundbreaking was The Great Lakes Cheese project, brining economic growth and development to the Franklinville/Farmersville area. “This project was a game changer for this area,” explains Corey. “It helps the area on multiple fronts, from an economic and agricultural standpoint.” The factory is looking to start full operations making cheese this December, opening up 200+ jobs to the area. It’s the largest private sector development in the state.
The Olean Manor project is a $10-million-dollar project centering around senior housing in Allegheny. Once complete, Olean Manor will offer senior cottages in an active senior community, located near their assisted living and adult care facility. These new build cottages are scattered on their 40-acre site and offer the community a realistic option for senior members of the community. “Not only does this project offer economic growth, but it is vital to our community as it provides peace of mind to seniors and their families in the community. This project also utilizes local suppliers and local builders, furthering the positive impact to our area.”
The Lincoln Boutique Motel was a huge project of nearly $2 million that is nearly complete, offering a unique lodging experience to the Ellicottville area. “It is wonderful to see this project finally come to fruition,” says Corey. “This property was a longstanding lodging option in Ellicottville, and it’s come together perfectly.” The Motel is currently open, offering a fresh boutique experience among the slopes of Ellicottville, and will soon offer a new dining and bar experience. “Once the pour-your-own bar and restaurant is open, this property will provide yet another reason to visit Ellicottville, as it’s a unique experience to the area.”
The CCIDA has approved the application for The Olean Center Mall Project, a redevelopment project of over $40 million. “A renovation project of this size is rare,” explains Corey. “It’s great for the area to have an investor reconstruct and reshaping the concept of this old shopping mall.” The project is in the process of engaging potential tenants for this multiuse space, including retail, dining housing and professional space.
Holiday Valley continues to be a shining star in the skiing industry, with continued investment in the area. “Throughout the years they have demonstrated customer satisfaction, the best quality of snow and their entire team makes the users experience A-1,” says Corey. “To have them in our backyard in Cattaraugus country an absolute blessing. They make excelling look easy.”
Looking forward to 2025, Corey is excited to announce a significant and transformational tourism project coming to the Ellicottville area. “This project will bring new opportunities to the area and complement the existing pillars of the community.”