Economic Development

Strengthening Communities Through Strategic Investment and Destination Development

 

The Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism (ROOST) is the destination marketing and management organization for Essex County and the broader Adirondack region. We work in close partnership with communities to support economic development that benefits both residents and visitors. Our efforts connect tourism, workforce, housing, and business development strategies to help build vibrant, resilient places to live, work, and explore.

 

We work closely with local governments, businesses, and regional partners to identify opportunities that grow the economy in ways that reflect and respect each community’s character and goals. ROOST supports projects from concept through execution, offering research, guidance, and hands-on coordination to move initiatives forward.

ROOST’s Current Focus Areas Include:

 

  • Housing Solutions to support the year-round workforce
  • Lodging Development in under-served markets to expand visitor stays
  • Business Attraction and Retention aligned with community needs and service gaps
  • Workforce Support including housing, recruitment, and quality of life improvements
  • Destination Development projects that enhance both resident and visitor experiences
  • Collaborative Grant Support for eligible public and private initiatives that advance community goals

 

Whether it is through strategic planning, grant support, or connecting local priorities with private investment, ROOST serves as a partner and catalyst, helping transform ideas into meaningful, on-the-ground outcomes.

Contact:


Adam DeSantis
Director of Economic Development & Destination Management
adam@roostadk.com
(518) 241-3079 x.133

Follow our progress and explore active projects:

Essex County Market-Rate Housing Study

The Essex County Market-Rate Housing Study is a county-wide initiative designed to tackle this challenge head-on. This study will be conducted in partnership with national housing market experts Zimmerman/Volk Associates.

New Lodging Opportunity: Market Analysis

New Lodging Opportunity: Market Analysis

Essex County’s tourism economy depends on longer, higher-spending visits, and this market analysis identifies lodging opportunities that attract new visitors and spending, rather than just shifting existing traffic, especially in underdeveloped yet high-potential areas.