Your Morning Edition for Wednesday, April 30th presented by DiSanto Propane!
Let's get caught up with all the biggest headlines from around the Finger Lakes after a very busy Tuesday! Severe weather cleanup, new Newark housing project breaks ground, and much more!
Officials celebrate launch of 101-unit affordable housing project in Newark
Officials broke ground on Coventry Commons, a $59 million project to convert Newark’s historic Reed Manufacturing site into 101 affordable, energy-efficient apartments for households earning up to 80% of the area median income. Supported by state and local initiatives, the development is part of Governor Hochul’s broader housing plan and aims to revitalize downtown Newark while preserving a long-vacant landmark. Developers and officials emphasized the project’s community impact, sustainable design, and contribution to addressing New York’s housing crisis.
Finger Lakes Forecast: Much cooler today.
Cool and breezy weather will give way to warmer temperatures and a chance of showers and thunderstorms beginning Thursday afternoon through Saturday. Friday is expected to bring the most unsettled weather, with a 70% chance of rain and thunderstorms throughout the day. Conditions will gradually improve by Sunday, with sunshine and highs in the low 60s to start the new week.
Fast 5: What’s happening in the Finger Lakes?
Palmyra-Macedon Intermediate School went into lockdown Tuesday afternoon after a report of a suspicious person with a firearm, later identified as an off-duty officer in training. The call prompted a rapid response from multiple law enforcement agencies and activation of the school district's safety protocols. Authorities confirmed there was no threat, and the lockdown was lifted within 30 minutes.
More than 700 students and community members attended the 2nd Annual Finger Lakes Career Day in Geneva, where they explored college and career opportunities from over 70 participating organizations. Students from 20 school districts connected with business leaders, college reps, and career programs to plan for life after graduation. Organized by The Second Impact and Catholic Charities, the event aims to grow further next year with even more resources for students.
Severe storms on Tuesday caused widespread damage and power outages across New York, with over 20,000 customers initially affected. As of Wednesday morning, around 1,000 outages remain in the Finger Lakes region, especially in the Geneva, Ithaca, and Oneonta areas. NYSEG crews continue restoration efforts, and officials are warning residents to steer clear of storm debris that may hide live wires.
To address a $2.8 million budget deficit, the city of Auburn is offering retirement incentives to eligible employees as a cost-saving measure. The plan, approved by City Council, provides lump-sum payments or health insurance credits to those who retire by May 17 or July 18. With over 30 employees eligible, officials hope the incentives will ease pressure on the city’s proposed $50.8 million budget.
State Senator Pam Helming and several law enforcement leaders are calling for the passage of the PROTECT Act, which would allow judges to detain potentially violent offenders before trial. The bill, known as S.2282A, aims to address public safety concerns by giving courts more discretion in high-risk cases. A press conference to support the legislation will be held May 2 at the Monroe County Public Safety Building in Rochester.
FL1 SPORTS: Kyle Petty on the 29th Charity Ride Across America
