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.
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