Get Local: The biggest stories to start your holiday weekend!
We have the latest to get your weekend started here with news from the Finger Lakes, to Albany, and Washington, D.C.
Hydrilla targeted by engineers on Cayuga, other lakes around Upstate
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is intensifying efforts to combat hydrilla, a fast-spreading invasive aquatic plant, in Cayuga Lake and Cayuga Inlet with weekly herbicide treatments through late August. Additional treatments are scheduled for the Erie Canal in late July, using EPA- and DEC-approved herbicides tailored for each site. While considered safe, the treatments may temporarily restrict water usage, with updates posted at public access points. Hydrilla threatens local ecosystems and economies by outcompeting native vegetation, disrupting water quality, and hindering recreation and infrastructure.
Finger Lakes Forecast: Sunny and mild today, then heating up!
The Finger Lakes region will see sunny skies and pleasant temperatures for Independence Day, with a high near 77 and light northwest winds. Warmer weather arrives over the weekend, with highs climbing to 88 on Saturday and 92 on Sunday under mostly sunny skies. Thunderstorm chances return Monday afternoon and evening, with a slight cooldown expected by Tuesday. The rest of the week features a mix of sun and clouds, with another chance of storms by Thursday.
Fast 5: What’s happening in the Finger Lakes?
President Donald Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill” passed the House in a narrow vote and now awaits his signature, sparking sharp political division in New York. Republican lawmakers praised the bill’s tax cuts, rural investments, and support for manufacturing, while Democrats condemned it for threatening healthcare and food assistance. Governor Kathy Hochul and Senator Chuck Schumer called the legislation harmful to millions of New Yorkers, warning it could strain hospitals and cut key services. As Trump prepares to sign the bill, New York leaders remain deeply split on its long-term impact.
Opposition is mounting in Cayuga County over the proposed Agricola Wind Project, which could bring up to 24 turbines to the towns of Scipio and Venice. Local officials and residents are raising concerns about environmental impacts, loss of local control, and decommissioning practices that may leave buried turbine foundations. Despite Liberty Renewables promoting $63 million in local investment and hosting public meetings, community members remain skeptical. A public forum on the project is scheduled for August 6 in Auburn.
Two people were hospitalized after an ATV crash Wednesday night in the Village of Sodus. Authorities say 26-year-old Dean Lanning was driving the vehicle with passenger Amber Woodhams when it hit a fallen tree and overturned, ejecting both riders. Lanning was airlifted to Strong Memorial Hospital, while Woodhams was transported by ambulance; both suffered non-life-threatening injuries. The Wayne County Sheriff’s Office is continuing to investigate the incident.
New York State United Teachers (NYSUT) is criticizing the June 2025 Regents exams for including questions on topics not covered in the state-approved curriculum. The union says Biology and Earth Science tests contained off-curriculum material, leading to confusion and frustration among students and educators. NYSUT President Melinda Person emphasized the importance of fair assessments aligned with standards and said the union is working with the State Education Department to prevent future issues. Test results are now being released to schools across the state.
Lane closures are set to begin July 7 in Auburn as Finger Lakes Railway replaces a rail crossing near the former Bombardier plant. The project will first shut down westbound lanes of the Arterial between North Division and Washington streets, with eastbound closures to follow. Each phase is expected to take up to two weeks, and detours will be posted along North Street, York Street, and North Division. The work is part of broader infrastructure upgrades ahead of a major $20 million repaving project scheduled for 2026.
City of Geneva Council July 2025 Regular Meeting
READER RUNDOWN: What else is happening in the Finger Lakes?
Waterloo man charged with trespassing after entering Geneva home
Midlakes honors hundreds of students for academic excellence
Running to Places brings bold satire ‘Urinetown’ to Ithaca stage
Trumansburg woman charged with felony drug possession in Seneca Falls
Seneca Lake Pure Waters shares updates, events, and action plans