The Bold New Blueprint for Franklin County’s Future

The Franklin County Economic Development Corporation (FCEDC) is proud to release the Draft 2025 Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) — a new blueprint for a stronger, more resilient Franklin County.

This is not just another plan. It’s the result of a year-long, community-led process that brought together business leaders, educators, healthcare professionals, builders, farmers, planners, and residents from every corner of the county. It combines powerful economic data with powerful local voices to build something we can all believe in:

• A strategy rooted in people

• A framework that’s both bold and actionable

• A future where Franklin County leads, not lags

What’s the Vision?

We believe the single biggest threat to our region is the continued loss of our young adult population.

Over the last 15 years, Franklin County has experienced a 20.7% decline in residents aged 20–39. This group includes the skilled tradespeople, teachers, nurses, childcare providers, business owners, and entrepreneurs that our communities depend on.

If we don’t reverse this trend, we won’t have the workforce or community infrastructure to sustain — let alone grow — our economy.

Our bold new vision:
By 2030, Franklin County will achieve a net increase of 2% in young adult residents — about 224 more people between the ages of 20 and 39 living and working in our communities.

This goal is at the center of the entire strategy.
Because in Franklin County: People are the strategy.

What’s in the Plan?

• A People-First Approach:
  We’re elevating housing, childcare, and broadband to the same level as roads and water lines — because our economy depends on it.

• Data-Driven Opportunities:
  The CEDS outlines specific trends and growth sectors: agriculture, remote work, small business, tourism, trades, and clean energy.

• Strategic Projects & Policy Tools:
  These are the practical, shovel-ready next steps that local leaders, grantmakers, and communities can rally around.

Your Voice is the Final Piece

This plan reflects what we’ve heard. But now, we want to hear from you.

Public Comment Period: August 27 – September 26, 2025
View the Draft Plan: Click here
Submit Comments: Click here
Request a Printed Copy: Email info@adirondackfrontier.com

“We encourage everyone — from village mayors to local students — to take a look, share your thoughts, and be part of this next chapter of Franklin County’s journey.”
— Jeremy Evans, CEO of FCEDC

Because Here in the Adirondack Frontier…

We don’t wait for change.
We build it — with bold vision, smart strategy, and unstoppable community spirit.