27-05-2025
Hammondsport and Urbana to receive $4.5m in community development funding
HAMMONDSPORT, N.Y. (WETM) — Two municipalities in Steuben County were awarded millions in funding to help better the communities as part of the NY Forward Projects initiative, according to a release from Governor Kathy Hochul's Office.
The Village of Hammondsport and the Town of Urbana are set to receive $4.5 million in total funding for six projects designed to uplift the community and local economies.
The projects are six out of 31 happening across the state and are part of two programs, the Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) and NY Forward.
'From revitalizing historic landmarks to expanding housing and creating new civic spaces, the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward are driving smart, including growth to the Southern Tier,' Governor Hochul said.
The town and village were awarded the funding after being recognized for having a strong sense of community and rich history in areas like winemaking while having a unique blend of scenic beauty and local character.
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The following projects were listed for Hammondsport and Urbana as NY Forward Projects:
Reconstruct Liberty Street and Mill Street in Hammondsport to be pedestrian-friendly and improve existing drainage issues. ($1,606,000)
Replace Champlin Beach Pier to increase access to Keuka Lake. ($1,357,000)
Renovate the historic Curtiss School into rental housing and multi-purpose community space. ($885,000)
Create a branding and marketing plan and a historic heritage trail with wayfinding signage. ($362,000)
Establish a bike-friendly neighborhood coffee shop and cafe at a former service station. ($172,000)
Renovate 31 Shethar St. to include additional means of egress to support a restaurant and bar on the lower level. ($118,000)
The NY Forward Program was part of the 2022 state budget as a way to build on the momentum created by the DRI. The program works with smaller communities to accelerate and expand the revitalization of smaller and rural downtowns in the state.
Urbana Town Supervisor, David Durepo, is thankful for the support and is hoping to attract new people to the town.
'The New York Forward projects bring a major economic support to Urbana's business community that is reinvigorating a new area to attract customers and families alike,' he said. 'We thank Governor Hochul for her great vision in revitalizing downtown areas in the state that will lead Urbana to become a thriving community for our residents, businesses, and visitors,' Durepo said.
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