Advocate DRUM reports Fort Drum microreactor consideration and Alpine Express ridership gains

An Advocate DRUM representative briefed the Lewis County Board of Legislators on recent regional initiatives tied to Fort Drum and a federally funded Alpine Express bus service. The representative said Fort Drum is one of nine military installations still being considered for a microreactor — a small nuclear reactor technology the speaker said could make Fort Drum independent from the electrical grid — and indicated the group may request a county resolution of support in the future.

The briefing also covered workforce topics, noting Fort Drum personnel could provide a labor pool for Micron, and described the Alpine Express pilot: federal funding covers program costs to the county, November ridership was 183 and rose to 397 in December. The provider is reportedly planning to order three new 22-passenger buses to improve frequency and stops. County planning staff and a consultant were credited for work supporting the service.

The board received the update and indicated staff will continue outreach with Advocate DRUM on marketing and operational details. The report was informational; no formal board action on these items was recorded.