Latest news with #NYForwardGrant
Yahoo
14-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Gouverneur gets $4.5 million in NY Forward funds
GOUVERNEUR, N.Y. (WWTI) – The village of Gouverneur will be getting a boost from New York State to invest in its historic downtown area. Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that the Village of Gouverneur will each receive $4.5 million as one of the North Country winners of the third round of NY Forward. For the eighth round of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and the third round of the NY Forward Program, each of the State's 10 economic development regions are being awarded $10 million from each program, to make for a total state commitment of $200 million in funding and investments to help communities boost their economies by transforming downtowns into vibrant neighborhoods. American Red Cross aids one person after Massena fire According to the state, 'Gouverneur will capitalize on its historical charm, vibrant and expanding downtown business community, safe, friendly, and walkable environment and its proximity to major regional employers to enhance quality of life, strengthen resilience and increase economic opportunities for both current and future residents. Additionally, Gouverneur aims to attract visitors to experience its rich recreational, cultural and retail assets, positioning the village as a regional destination.' On behalf of the Village of Gouverneur, I would like to thank Governor Hochul for this opportunity. This NY Forward Grant will be such a benefit to our community and we look forward to revitalizing our downtown. Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall In the press announcement from the governor's office, the village was called 'is a charming historic community located along the Oswegatchie River. The Village embodies the feel of community with a beautiful downtown and park area. The Village is home to many festivals and events, including the St. Lawrence County Fair, that entertains residents and attracts visitors from across the region. 'Gouverneur is a true treasure to the 117th Assembly District,' Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush said. 'I always like to see NYS invest in our rural villages. When you invest in downtowns you invest in small businesses and residents. I am always in support of that.' Malone and Keeseville were also winners of the latest round with Malone getting $10 million and Keeseville receiving $4.5 milllion. The three municipalities will now start the process of developing a Strategic Investment Plan to revitalize their downtowns. A Local Planning Committee made up of municipal representatives, community leaders and other stakeholders will lead the effort, supported by a team of private sector experts and state planners. The Strategic Investment Plan will guide the investment of DRI and NY Forward grant funds in revitalization projects that are poised for implementation, will advance the community's vision for their downtown and that can leverage and expand upon the state's investment. The North Country Regional Economic Development Council conducted a thorough and competitive review process of proposals submitted from communities throughout the region and considered all criteria before recommending these communities as nominees. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
01-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Art building project is halfway to fundraising goal
The Cooperstown Art Association and The Smithy Gallery announced in a news release they have reached the halfway mark in their $2 million fundraising goal for the 53 Pioneer Project. According to the release, the restoration and renovation of the historic building at 53 Pioneer St. will provide a flexible three-story interior and garden space for broad community use by artists and non-artists. The overall fundraising goal of $2 million supports the cost of construction, furnishings, equipment and additional staffing of the facility. To date, the project has raised $1 million in financial support from public and private sources, including $640,000 through a NY Forward grant received by the village of Cooperstown and administered by a local planning committee. To reach its overall goal, the Cooperstown Art Association and The Smithy together seek commitments of financial support over five years by the end of 2026. Construction on the building and garden will commence following the issuing of a contract from New York state for the NY Forward Grant. A Cooperstown firm, Altonview Architects, has been retained to design the new facility, with plans to emphasize energy-efficient upgrades and the preservation of the building's historic features dating back to its original 1826 construction. To date, the Cooperstown Art Association and The Smithy have received a number of five-year pledges from supporters whose annual donations have historically funded the ongoing operations of the partnering organizations, the release stated. Their financial commitments to the project represent additional donations earmarked specifically for the 53 Pioneer Project. Ongoing annual support will also be needed to maintain the regular activities of both organizations while 53 Pioneer Street is under construction, the release stated. In addition to the private donations that the project has received, the estate of Michael J. Naso Jr. has allocated a gift of $100,000. 'We are deeply grateful to our generous base of supporters who are making this project possible,' Janet Erway, executive director of the Cooperstown Art Association and The Smithy, said in the release. 'This milestone not only represents the community's enduring commitment to preserving history, but also shows its dedication to ensuring the bright future of our creative community. We look forward to the continued support of our community as we proceed with this exciting project designed to benefit all members of the public.' Aside from the studio, exhibition, retail and event rental space that the new facility will provide, the project emphasizes a slate of innovative educational initiatives. Through internal programming as well as outside partnerships, the space will offer classes, workshops and special events for school-aged children, as well as artist lectures and demonstrations and cooking classes for members of the general public.
