In a historic and first-ever State of the Upstate address, Governor Spitzer outlined his plan to revitalize the upstate economy and promote business development within the region.

The speech, delivered Wednesday to a crowd of nearly 800 at Buffalo State College, was seen as a symbol of hope in a region that has been plagued by job loss, violence, and an outsourcing of young people. According to The New York Times, Spitzer said he would work with mayors, businesses, and universities to develop individual plans for each upstate city.

The plan included several environmental implications including the allocation of $350 million to retooling brownfield cleanup of contaminated sites, as well as investing in business development by preparing development-ready sites and industrial sites. The plan will also include $80 million to be allocated to restoring the region's state parks, as well as $50 million to be invested in agricultural businesses and alternative fuel technology.

Many praise the governor for making the revitalization of the upstate communities a priority in his administration despite facing political problems elsewhere. However, according to the Rochester Democrat & Chronicle, others are criticizing Spitzer for not detailing funding sources in his speech. The state is already faced with a deficit of almost $5 billion, and according to the Buffalo News, Spitzer has said that his plan would not include raising taxes, leaving critics wanting more detail.

Still, having met mostly praise for his trip to Buffalo, upstate residents are eagerly awaiting his words to turn into action.