Latest news with #DowntownRevitalizationInitiative
Yahoo
27-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
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. Millport to receive state aid to strengthen water infrastructure 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. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
'We're getting closer': Ogdensburg officials will look at all options for future DRI applications
May 19—OGDENSBURG — If the City of Ogdensburg decides to submit an application for the next round of the state's Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) funding, it will take a look at all of its options and decide whether the Marina District will be the focus once again. The DRI program, in its eighth round of funding after launching in 2016, recently awarded $10 million to Malone. An amount of $10 million is awarded to one community in each of the state's 10 Regional Economic Development Council regions. The northern communities of Plattsburgh, Watertown, Saranac Lake, Potsdam, Massena, Tupper Lake, Ticonderoga and Lowville have been DRI recipients. Ogdensburg has once again missed out on the funding. Mayor Michael Tooley said that he felt that the river community had presented a compelling and strong argument for the $10 million in funding. "We were certainly disappointed. We thought, in talking with staff, that it was our strongest application to date," Tooley said. "In terms of presentation, in terms of depth of presentation and with over 150 letters of support from community businesses and citizens we were optimistic that we had a shot. We certainly congratulate Malone on its award and trust that the money will go to good use." The city's most recent application focused on the Marina District, which city officials admit is a "non-traditional" location for funds seeking to improve and rehabilitate downtowns. Projects included 7 Brown St. which would transform a vacant building into a neighborhood eatery with outdoor seating and gathering spaces, as well as the former Ramada Inn at 119 West River St. with the project transforming the former hotel into a resort, spa and retail center. Other smaller projects include renovations to the Richard G. Lockwood Civic Center, park improvements as well as investments in public infrastructure. "We feel we're getting closer," said the mayor. "We still feel that we can be a strong candidate." If the city decides to submit another DRI application, Tooley feels that a volunteer committee, formed in 2024, should be used again to assist with the application process. The committee helped the city receive more than 150 letters of support that was submitted with the DRI application. "I thought that was very important. Some interesting things about that committee, it was a 15-person committee, but about half of the members had been citizens for less than five years. It showed that people coming into the area were interested in the city and they brought a fresh outlook I would say," said Tooley, "I thought that was very valuable in the work that they did." City Manager Fonda Chronis said if the city decides to apply for DRI funding in the next round it would not be the same application as submitted previously and changes would have to be made. "It's highly competitive and you never know who your competition will be year to year but the key are the projects. The private projects. The investment. The state wants to see private dollars being leveraged against their investment," Chronis said. The city will need to make sure developers are still interested in participating and potentially adding either developers or projects into the mix, according to the city manager. "The more private sector proposals you have out there, the stronger your application is," Chronis said. Chronis contends that the Marina District is a viable candidate for the DRI funding. However, everything will be looked at. "The question is, what is next best option for us and right now I would argue that it's that Marina District area but we also have to step back and say OK, we did something that was a bit non-traditional. I think we got good feedback on it and we just have to decide if that's the direction we go in. If I was set in stone, I think that would be a mistake. We want to look at all of our options," Chronis said. The city is still waiting to hear word on funding from Empire State Development (ESD) through its Restore NY program that would allow two projects to move forward with demolition, rehabilitation and reconstruction. The Restore NY program "provides municipalities with financial assistance for the revitalization of commercial and residential properties" and encourages community development and neighborhood growth through the elimination and redevelopment of blighted structures. At 119-135 West River St., At the Docks LLC is seeking $3.5 million in Restore NY funds for its $10,000,000 project that would "rehabilitate, reconstruct an abandoned waterfront hotel property consisting of an old abandoned hotel and two historic stone buildings that have been vacant for over 16 years, transforming the property into a vibrant destination that offers unique accommodations, dining, and recreational experiences for visitors and residents alike," according to a letter to the city from At the Docks principal owners Christoper R. and Michael P. Frary. William Hosmer, managing member of Small City Brewing Company, LLC, has requested $935,000 for its $1,039,453 project at 110 Lake St. "Small City Brewing Company (SCBC) will revive a 4400 sqft vacant building to manufacture craft beers in Ogdensburg's Marina District, an economically distressed and former brownfield opportunity area, one of the City's main focuses of local revitalization," wrote Hosmer, "The building will include a commercial grade brewing system and kitchen as well as a tasting room and additional space for private events. The outdoor space will consist of a patio with large tables, firepits, lawn games, landscaping and charming outdoor lighting. SCBC also plans to wholesale to North Country restaurants and bars."
Yahoo
19-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Millions of dollars awarded to projects in Webster, Macedon
ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) — Multiple Finger Lakes projects, including in Webster and Macedon, have received funding from state programs. Millions of dollars were awarded to 31 transformational projects thanks to the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward. 13 were awarded for Waterloo ($9.7 million), 11 were awarded for Webster ($4.5 million), and seven were awarded for Macedon ($4.5 million). Many of the projects include development, renovations to certain areas within the municipalities, and grant funds for small businesses and projects. Below is a breakdown of these projects: Webster Enhance Veterans Memorial Park ($1,100,000) Optimize Harmony House ($1,010,000) New conservatory at Kittelberger Florist & Gifts ($546,000) Enhance Wayfinding Signage ($381,000) New gateway to North End Business District ($310,000) New small project grant fund ($289,000) New Hojack Trail Gateway ($289,000) Renovate community spaces at Immanuel Lutheran Church ($255,000) Upgrade 39 West Main Street ($161,000) Transform 7 South Avenue for retail use ($89,000) Invest in marketing ($70,000) Macedon Relocate ambulance services downtown ($1,250,000) New residential campus at 2 West Street ($920,000) New mixed-use downtown anchor on 103 Main Street ($915,000) Enhance Gravino Park ($740,000) New downtown small project grant fund ($450,000) Bring auto service downtown ($125,000) New restaurant in Masonic Block B&B ($100,000) Waterloo Upgraded recreation facilities at the Waterloo Community Center ($1,658,000) Establish a multi-modal hub and gathering place ($1,372,000) Expand Waterloo Library and Historical Society ($1,271,000) Reinforce Vern's Way as a downtown connector ($1,119,000) Main Street improvements ($886,000) Revamp offerings in the Street of Shops ($845,000) Small grant for Waterloo's downtown revitalization ($600,000) New apartments at 1 East Main Street ($562,000) Develop Grange Food Hall and Entertainment Hub ($519,000) New office space at 10 West Main Street ($320,000) Branding and wayfinding initiative ($250,000) Improve American Legion facilities ($200,000) New artisan shop at 39 West Main Street ($98,000) Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
16-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Herkimer, Richfield, Boonville receive DRI, NY Forward funds
ALBANY, NY (WUTR/WFXV/WPNY) — Governor Kathy Hochul announced on Friday, May 16 that three local municipalities — the villages of Herkimer and Boonville, as well as the Town of Richfield — have received funding for major projects as part of the state's Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) and NY Forward programs. The three communities will share $19 million from the two programs to work on 19 projects, with Herkimer using the money on the most projects with eight. 'When we invest in our downtowns, we're investing in the heart of our communities. Through the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward program, we're not just funding projects – we're fostering vibrant, walkable neighborhoods that spur economic growth, enhance quality of life for residents and preserve the unique character of each municipality and region,' Secretary of State Walter Mosley said in a statement. These signature programs exemplify our commitment to ensuring that every New Yorker, in every corner of our State, has the opportunity to succeed and thrive.' Herkimer's projects — funded by the DRI — total approximately $9.7 million and focus on workforce generation and economic development. They include: Enhancing streetscapes in Herkimer's 'Diamond District' by creating a gateway arch at the intersection of Main and Albany Streets. Revitalizing the village's Masonic Temple on Main Street. Revitalizing and updating Myers Park. Transforming Heritage Access at the Herkimer County Historical Society. Creating a Small Project Fund of $600,000 to provide small businesses, non-profits and property owners with grants for improvement projects. Establishing a Downtown Diamond District marketing campaign. Renovating a mixed-use building on Albany Street. Expanding a dentist's office on North Prospect Street to improve access to dental care. The Village of Boonville intends to use its $4.5 million from NY Forward to transform their downtown into a tourism destination. The village intends to use the money for improved pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, expanded small business opportunities, and mixed-use building development. Those projects include: Improvement of signage, sidewalks and lighting. Rebuilding the Boone Building, which will include three new retail spaces and nine apartments. Rebuilding Slim's Restaurant, which will include two new apartments, Reviving Boonville Manufacturing, which will include improving site aesthetics and screening residential uses from the warehouse. Restoring the greenhouses of and expanding Flower Hill Farm, including installing a botanical garden. Renovating the Restore Forward Building, which will include the addition of a commercial kitchen and a woodworking shop. Additionally, the $144,000 allocated will go towards improving the facade of the building, making it attractive to passersby. 'We are incredibly proud and grateful to accept the transformational projects to be included in the Village's recent $4.5 million NY Forward grant from Governor Hochul,' Boonville mayor Judith Dellerba said in a statement. 'This investment in the Village of Boonville is key for our village's future to create a vibrant, walkable downtown to attract new businesses, support local businesses and a welcoming space for residents and visitors. Most importantly, and critical to this community is that we will move forward in a way that preserves the historic charm and character that makes our village so special. We thank Governor Hochul and the NY Forward program for recognizing the potential of small communities like ours and for investing in a future where economic growth and quality of life go hand in hand.' The town of Richfield also received $4.5 million from NY Forward. The town intends to use that money to revitalize their Main Street. Projects to receive Richfield's allocation include: The revival of the Elk Opera House, including updating its facade and redesigning their second-floor apartments. Five more loft apartments will be added on the third floor and a new environmentally-friendly boiler will be installed. Revitalizing Spring Park, including establishing formal walkways and pathways, and installing new signage. Renovation of the Cornerstone Structure, which when completed, will include five apartments and four commercial spaces. Implementation of a Small Project Fund, and Expanding a building on Main Street. That project includes the construction of a commercial kitchen for the Richfield Springs Community Food Cooperative. The expansion will also include three new apartment units. 'I'd like to thank the Governor and her administration for recognizing Richfield's potential,' Richfield town supervisor Larry Frigault said in a statement. 'Our project sponsors will greet this news with great enthusiasm. Everyone is ready to continue the revitalization of Richfield which would not have been possible without this financial support.' Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
15-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Three NNY towns receive state improvement funding
ALBANY, N.Y. (WWTI) – Three north country municipalities are getting state Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward funding. In an announcement from New York Governor Kathy Hochul's office, Lowville, Alexandria Bay and Canton are in line to get funding for various improvement projects. Have you seen the new statues in the Square? A total of 10 projects were announced for Lowville, the Round 7 winner of a $10 million DRI award; five projects were announced for Canton, a Round 2 winner of a $4.5 million NY Forward award; and seven projects were announced for Alexandria Bay, also a Round 2 winner of a $4.5 million NY Forward award. These targeted investments in the Village of Canton and Alexandria Bay are a vital step toward strengthening our downtowns, preserving our heritage, and enhancing economic opportunity throughout the 116th Assembly District. These NY Forward projects reflect the unique character of each community, Canton's vibrant academic and cultural setting and Alexandria Bay's iconic waterfront. This will help expand housing, support small businesses, and boost tourism. By investing in infrastructure, recreation, and commercial revitalization, the state is helping these communities build a sustainable future rooted in local pride and economic growth. Assemblyman Scott Gray Here's a breakdown of the projects As the 'urban heart' of Lewis County, the Village of Lowville seeks to preserve and enhance its small-town, rural charm, while diversifying and expanding its economic base in ways consistent with its unique character. The Village's DRI projects are focused on transforming its downtown into a more vibrant neighborhood through private and public sector project opportunities that will achieve its vision for the downtown. Lowville's investments will build on its past and ongoing efforts to make the downtown a regional center for business and culture, drawing on its position as the 'intersection corridor of the Thousand Islands, the Tug Hill Plateau and the Adirondack Mountains.' The 10 Lowville DRI projects, totaling $9.7 million, include: Improve Access and Parking at Veteran's Memorial Park Creating a Safe and Inviting Space ($2,848,000): Reconfigure the parking lot at Veteran's Memorial Park to create a welcoming gateway, improving access and increasing pedestrian safety. Key features include an improved entrance from State Street, curb bump-outs, upgraded sidewalks, green infrastructure for stormwater management, and new street trees. A formal monument sign will mark the park entrance, while parking improvements on Parkway Drive will optimize access and aesthetics. Revitalize State Street to Enhance Safety, Accessibility, and Aesthetics in Downtown Lowville ($1,711,000): Enhance safety, accessibility and aesthetics through the installation of high-visibility crosswalks, curb bump-outs, Rectangular Rapid Flash Beacons, street tree plantings and green infrastructure to manage stormwater runoff and beautify the area. Renovate the Stevens Block to Create Market Rate Apartments at 7623 N State Street ($1,558,000): Renovate an abandoned space at 7623 N State Street, creating market-rate residential units on the upper floors, with comprehensive upgrades including a new vestibule, stairwell, energy-efficient systems and exterior improvements. Restore the Historic Keller Red Building to Create a Mixed-Use Commercial and Residential Space ($1,193,000): Preserve a historic downtown building by renovating its second and third stories into commercial and residential spaces, establishing a professional office space, enhancing meeting capabilities for Naturally Lewis, and upgrading the building's structural, mechanical, and safety systems. Rehabilitate the Historic Masonic Temple into an Efficient Community Hub ($776,000): Rehabilitate the historic National Register-listed Masonic Temple building in downtown Lowville, enhancing its role as a center for historical preservation, education, and cultural activities while modernizing its facilities for energy efficiency to serve the community and promote heritage tourism. Establish a Small Project Fund to Enhance Downtown Lowville ($400,000): The Small Project Fund will support smaller projects in downtown Lowville with improvements such as facade restoration and improvement, interior renovation, signage, public art, and business assistance. Develop a Downtown Branding and Wayfinding Strategy to Enhance Lowville's Identity ($358,000): Revitalize its downtown area through a comprehensive initiative that includes a branding and marketing strategy, a wayfinding signage system, and interpretive elements that highlight local history. Reimagine Veteran's Park to create Community Space with Modern Amenities and Enhanced Accessibility ($320,000): Upgrade Veteran's Park with improvements that aim to create a vibrant and accessible community space. Restore the Historic Town Hall Theater into a Community Asset ($294,000): Restore a historic building to its original state while modernizing its functionality, including facade restoration, window replacement, interior renovations, stage construction, and technological upgrades to create a versatile cultural center for the community. Reopen 5423 Shady Avenue to Create a Mixed-Use Building ($242,000): Renovate the second floor into a functional law office, restoring the building's integrity, while transforming the long-vacant third floor into safe, and affordable mid to long-term housing. The Village of Canton's historic downtown area is the crossroads connecting the St. Lawrence River Valley. The NY Forward projects will help generate a regional destination centered around diverse housing options; art and cultural attractions; variety of local businesses; and recreational offerings. The 5 Canton NY Forward Projects, totaling $4.5 Million, include: Revitalize the Former Midtown Plaza to Create a Mixed-Use Space ($2,000,000): Redevelop the former Midtown Plaza into a mixed-use space that provides housing, an entrepreneurship center, and community amenities. Upgrade Park Amenities in the Village Green to Enhance Community Space ($1,096,000): Upgrade Village Green with improved pathways, lighting, seating, and diverse plantings to create an inviting year-round space while maintaining the park's historic character. Transform 11 – 11 ½ Riverside Drive into a Commercial Fitness Hub ($807,000): Transform the partially vacant building at 11 and 11 ½ Riverside Drive into a commercial fitness center and studio space to provide health and wellness opportunities to the community and boost downtown business activity. Expand Nature's Storehouse into a Holistic Health Hub on Main Street ($497,000): Expand Nature's Storehouse at 19 and 21 Main Street into a community health hub with improved food offerings, health products, and seating areas for customers, while renovating upper-story residential units. Upgrade the TAUNY Center to Offer Improved Art and Cultural Experiences ($100,000): Upgrade the TAUNY Center with renovations to the building's façade and interior to improve accessibility and functionality. Alexandria Bay's downtown area, which encompasses the Village's vibrant and burgeoning waterfront and abundant natural and recreational assets, has witnessed a recent surge of private investment. NY Forward projects will build and expand upon this effort and will allow the community to accelerate its economic regrowth by attracting visitors, residents and investors to the downtown. The 7 Alexandria Bay NY Forward Projects, totaling $4.5 Million, include: Transform the James Street Streetscape into a Welcoming Corridor ($3,003,000): Transform James Street to improve pedestrian safety and foster a welcoming environment with the addition of a pedestrian plaza, new sidewalks, lighting and decorative plantings as well as upgraded restrooms by the public dock. Renovate 27 James Street into a Mixed-Use Building ($510,000): Renovate 27 James Street to include a café, bookstore, art studio and apartment units. Landscaping improvements will create outdoor space for tenants with access to Rotary Park and the Riverwalk. Create a Small Project Fund to Support Growth in Downtown Alexandria Bay ($285,000): Establish a matching grant fund in the NYF boundary to undertake a range of small downtown projects including façade enhancements, building renovations to commercial or mixed-use spaces, business assistance, and public art. Renovate 34 James Street into a Mixed-Use Building ($270,000): Transform the first floor of 34 James Street into a potential eatery and renovate the upstairs into new apartments. Create a Branding & Wayfinding Signage Initiative for Downtown Alexandria Bay to Strengthen Community Identity ($250,000): Create a coordinated branding and wayfinding signage initiative to strengthen the Village's identity as a desirable tourist destination and welcoming community. Rehabilitate the Exterior of the Cornwall Brothers Store and Museum, to Preserve the Historic Landmark ($92,000): Rehabilitate the museum and its retail space with a focus on stabilizing and preserving the historic exterior masonry. Restore 20 Walton Street for Commercial Use ($90,000): Restore 20 Walton Street by revitalizing its façade and enhancing energy efficiency, creating an inviting and functional space for commercial use on the first floor. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
