A Region for Success

NY'S CENTRAL UPSTATE REGION
Location
The region is central to the world’s richest markets, and strategically located at the crossroads of major New York State interstate systems.  Situated at the geographic center of New York State, the region is an easy drive to major markets in Canada, the mid-Atlantic and New England.  The region is bordered by Lake Ontario, the Finger Lakes , the Thousand Islands, St. Lawrence River and the foothills of the southwest Adirondacks.  It is traversed by numerous rivers, as well as the State’s canal system.  The region also includes Oneida Lake, which is the largest lake located within New York State, as well as several Finger Lakes.  This significant water-to-land ratio provides a very high quality of life which has  been recognized by Rand McNally Places Rated Almanac.

Market Access
The area's comprehensive multi-modal transportation system provides access to a huge industrial market. About half of the combined population, personal income, and manufacturing plants of the U.S. and Canada lie within a 750-mile radius.  Central Upstate New York’s transportation facilities rank among the top 10% of 333 metropolitan areas in the United States.

An international airport, a deep-water port, a major rail terminal and miles of interstate highways serve businesses throughout the region.  The Syracuse Hancock International Airport is serviced by commercial carriers and major air cargo companies.  CSX, Norfolk Southern, New York Susquehanna and Western and Finger Lakes Railroads provide freight service to the region and offer competitive pricing advantages.  The Port of Oswego provides direct deep water access to the St. Lawrence Seaway for ocean-going vessels.  The New York State Canal System can be accessed at several points in the region.

Quality of Life
Central Upstate New York's abundance of natural resources supports a four-season tourist and recreation industry. Lakes and rivers  offer opportunities for a variety of water sports and world-class fishing.  The region boasts extensive downhill and cross-country skiing.   Art galleries, museums, professional theatre, performing arts centers, and winery tours are just a few of the area's many attractions. There are more than 100 state, county and city parks, and nature centers in the region.  With so many colleges and universities, there is a great diversity of cultural amenities and events, along with collegiate sports teams.  In addition, there are several minor league baseball teams and a minor league hockey team.

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