About New York
Cortland
County, New York's motto is “The Gateway to the
scenic Finger
Lakes region.” A mostly rural county, it lies situated
between Ithaca,
Binghamton
and Syracuse.
Fifteen towns and three villages make up the county, with Cortland
serving as the county seat. The population numbers at almost
49,000 according to the Census 2000.
This picturesque area proudly retains its wonderful
historic downtown areas, where antique
shops thrive. Each season offers its own unique
activities. Spring brings the Central
New York Maple Festival in the town of Marathon,
where there the tradition of tapping the trees for syrup has
been practiced since the days when Indians inhabited the
region. The opening of trout season begins, and Cortland
County’s 130 miles of rivers and streams delight the locals
and visitors alike. 'Bluegrass on the Green' rings out from
the quaint, historic village of Homer.
Summer reigns as the best time for hiking and biking through
the 30,000 acres of state forestland. Twenty-five lakes and
ponds offer boating, swimming and fishing while five golf
courses surrounded by breathtaking beauty await.
Autumn remains the most spectacular season in Upstate New
York, and Cortland County boasts some of the finest fall
foliage. Local towns and villages proudly celebrate their
rural heritage with harvest festivals such as the Cincinnatus
Corn Fest and the Great
Cortland Pumpkinfest. Hunting season is beautiful in the
vividly changing forests. Winter gleams in its entire snowy
splendor and Cortland County offers three excellent ski areas.
Greek Peak Ski Resort, Labrador
Mountain, and Song
Mountain all display marvelous slopes for downhill skiing,
while the surrounding areas contain miles of trails for
snowmobiles and cross-country skiers. Many romantic bed &
breakfasts and quaint cottages can be rented through every
season.
With all the natural beauty, tourism remains strong in
Cortland County, but that is not the only industry. The
Cortland County Business
Development Corporation, founded in 1982, plays a large
role in bringing new corporations and firms into the area.
Over $90 million in new investment programs have been spent in
the last few years. Designated as one of New York’s Empire
Zones, there are many state and local incentives in place
to enhance new business growth.
With a central location in the middle of New York, and
excellent highway access to every region, as well as
Washington DC, economists call Cortland County the
‘heartland of future growth’. Manufacturing, medical and
health services, metal fabrication and a strong wood products
industry all thrive here, along with other businesses.
Cortland County, New York is small-town America at its
finest. With a deep respect and admiration for its past, and a
bright and prosperous future waiting, Cortland County has much
to offer residents and visitors alike and serves
Cortlandville, Marathon, Cincinnatus and Virgil. |
