What are the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY-Forward Programs?
In its seventh year, the Downtown Revitalization Initiative will award $10 million to one community in each of the ten New York economic regions.
In addition, the second round of NY Forward awards will be smaller but more numerous than the DRI, offering up to three awards per region - either two $4.5 million awards, or one $4.5 million award and two $2.25 million awards.
The awards will help winning communities develop plans and implement projects which will “connect the renaissance of magnet cities with the revitalization of smaller downtowns - creating greater opportunities for New York residents, businesses, and visitors.”
Goals of the Programs
The DRI and NY Forward programs provide a comprehensive approach to improving the physical, social, and economic climate of participating communities. The intention is to provide funding that can help communities on the cusp of economic revitalization tip over into sustained prosperity.
The fundamental goals of the DRI and NY Forward programs include:
Creating an active downtown with a strong sense of place;
Attracting new businesses that create a robust mix of shopping, entertainment and service options for residents and visitors, and that provide job opportunities for a variety of skills and salaries;
Enhancing public spaces for arts and cultural events that serve the existing members of the community but also draw in attendees from around the region;
Building a diverse population, with residents and workers supported by complementary diverse housing and employment opportunities;
Growing the local property tax base;
Providing amenities that support and enhance downtown living and quality of life; and
Reducing greenhouse gas emissions by creating compact, walkable development patterns that increase public transit ridership and allow for adoption of district-wide decarbonized heating and cooling, and by supporting efficiency and electrification of buildings, installation of on-site renewable energy generation, and electric vehicle charging.
Canton can be transformed through innovative projects
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Want to learn more?
For more information about Economic and Community Development initiatives in Canton, please contact Leigh Rodriguez, Director of Economic Development:
(315) 386-2871 x5 or lrodriguez@cantonny.gov.
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