Good morning, Poughkeepsie.

Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation admitted fault for a November 2, 2023 gas explosion at 7 Brick Row in Wappingers Falls that injured a dozen people and destroyed a home, prompting the New York State Public Service Commission on Aug.

14 to approve a settlement that includes a $5M penalty and a $2.5M to $3.5M remediation fund to improve gas safety.

Central Hudson customers will see a three-year rate plan approved that raises electric bills 3.5% and gas bills over 5% for year one—low-income discounts expand under the Energy Affordability Program.

The Public Service Commission cut its original electric request by more than $17 million and its gas request by $800,000.

Central Hudson will start a three-year rate increase plan on Sept 1 that will raise electric bills by about 3.12% and natural gas bills by about 5.19% for most customers—with low-income households receiving a credit on electric bills.

The Public Service Commission approved the plan while Gov. Hochul said the rises remain high as the company expands outreach for eligible customers.

Some New York homeowners have already received their STAR checks while others will see theirs by year-end.

In mid-Hudson, eligible residents can expect a check between $350 and $600 as part of the state's $2.2 billion tax relief distribution — with the region set to receive $488.5 million in total.

County Executive Sue Serino has allocated $35,000 in funds to give eligible residents free window air conditioning units after the state’s Cooling Assistance Program ran out — a move aimed at helping older adults and medically vulnerable neighbors cope with the heat.

Applications will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis until the funds are exhausted.

Ulster County has opened Round 2 of its Food Security Grant Program with $410,000 available—applications are due by October 15 to help expand local emergency food services and build long-term resiliency.

The grants offer amounts from $5,000 to $20,000 for individual proposals and up to $75,000 for collaborative efforts.

The Mid-Hudson Bridge in Poughkeepsie will begin a $34.4 million rehabilitation project this fall aimed at strengthening the east side and enhancing road quality—minimal traffic disruptions are expected as work continues until summer.

Big Lawn Music Festival

2-10 p.m. — Plan Bee Farm Brewery — Free for children 12 and under — Celebrate live music with diverse artists in a festive outdoor setting.

Poughkeepsie PorchFest

12-6:30 p.m. — Academy Street Historic District — Free entry — Discover diverse musical performances on the porches of Poughkeepsie's historic district.

The Marauder’s Market

11 AM – 5 PM — Poughkeepsie Elks Lodge #275 — Free entry — Explore a vibrant market featuring 50+ artists, authors, and vendors, including a special appearance by Goosebumps artist Tim Jacobus.