Governor Kathy Hochul recently announced major funding wins for Poughkeepsie, Nyack, and Dobbs Ferry as part of New York State's initiative to enhance and revitalize downtown areas. Poughkeepsie secured the largest share, receiving $10 million from the Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI), while Nyack and Dobbs Ferry were each awarded $4.5 million through the NY Forward program, as per the Governor's office. These investments are part of a broader $200 million commitment aimed at fostering sustainable neighborhoods and boosting economic growth throughout the state. According to a statement from Governor Hochul, this push for transformation is all about supporting affordable housing, local businesses, and sustainable infrastructure.
To qualify for funding from either the DRI or NY Forward programs, localities must participate in the Pro-Housing Communities Program, which requires certification for actively promoting housing development. Governor Hochul's not shy about poncing up the cash either, with a hefty $650 million in discretionary funds each year for pledged communities and an additional suggested $100 million for infrastructure to spur new housing. Nyack and Dobbs Ferry are among the 287 communities now certified as pro-housing, demonstrating their commitment to housing development. However, it’s not just about the funding. The projects receiving support align with Governor Hochul’s affordability goals, with more than 4,400 housing units in development, including 1,823 designated as affordable or workforce housing.
In Poughkeepsie, the DRI award will help revitalize the Main Street Corridor, a key area with landmarks like the Bardavon 1869 Opera House and the Mid-Hudson Civic Center, bringing new energy to the city's downtown. Nyack's NY Forward award will amp up the village's alluring mix of nature and city living, enhancing its "live, work, play" rep, while Dobbs Ferry plans to up its game in the walkable downtown stakes, linking its metro station with downtown via an improved pedestrian corridor. Mayor Vincent Rossillo expressed his gratitude to Governor Hochul, the Regional Economic Development Council, and the New York Department of State for awarding Dobbs Ferry a New York Forward grant, thanking them for their support, as noted by the Governor's official announcement.
In a statement, New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said the latest round of funding will allow Poughkeepsie, Nyack, and Dobbs Ferry to handpick projects that will bring the changes their downtowns need for residents. Likewise, Hope Knight of Empire State Development sees these awards as a strategic poise for local economic growth. It's not just politics as usual—localities must now draft Strategic Investment Plans, with guidance from a Local Planning Committee made up of community leaders and experts, according to the same press release.
