Poughkeepsie, Nyack, and Dobbs Ferry selected for major state funding initiatives to revitalize their downtowns, with a focus on affordable housing, economic growth, and public accessibility

New York State – Governor Kathy Hochul has recently unveiled the Mid-Hudson winners for two significant state development initiatives aimed at revitalizing downtown areas across New York.

The City of Poughkeepsie, along with the Villages of Nyack and Dobbs Ferry, have been selected as beneficiaries of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) and NY Forward Program, respectively, receiving substantial financial awards to propel urban renewal and economic growth.

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Poughkeepsie, known as the “Queen City on the Hudson,” has been granted $10 million through the eighth round of the DRI. This funding is expected to transform its Main Street Corridor into a bustling hub for commerce, entertainment, and transit connectivity.

This strategic area not only caters to local residents but also attracts commuters and visitors from across the region, being home to landmarks such as the Bardavon 1869 Opera House and the Mid-Hudson Civic Center.

In addition to Poughkeepsie, the villages of Nyack and Dobbs Ferry have each been awarded $4.5 million through the third round of the NY Forward Program. Nyack plans to use these funds to enhance its vibrant downtown which combines urban convenience with scenic beauty, thanks to its proximity to the Hudson River.

The funding will focus on improving affordable housing, business growth, and public accessibility, aiming to preserve its small-town charm while adapting to modern economic demands.

Dobbs Ferry will also benefit from the NY Forward grant, with plans to revitalize its historic, walkable downtown. The village aims to redevelop key properties, enhance public spaces, and foster economic growth through improved connectivity between the Metro-North station and the downtown area. This initiative is expected to bolster the village’s role as a cultural and economic hub.

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These awards are part of Governor Hochul’s broader agenda to support sustainable infrastructure and affordable housing across the state. Under the Pro-Housing Communities Program, these communities have demonstrated a commitment to expanding their housing stock, a prerequisite for receiving these state funds.

The strategic investments from the DRI and NY Forward programs extend beyond financial assistance. They represent a concerted effort by the state to enhance quality of life, promote economic growth, and ensure that downtown areas can thrive as dynamic centers of activity.

According to New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley, the past funding rounds have already shown positive impacts on economic and community development in various regions.

Further comments from state and local officials underscore the significance of these grants. Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight remarked on the commitment to community development, while local leaders like Mayor Yvonne Flowers of Poughkeepsie and Joseph Rand of Nyack expressed gratitude and optimism about the future enhancements these funds will enable.

Looking ahead, Poughkeepsie, Nyack, and Dobbs Ferry will begin developing their Strategic Investment Plans. These plans will be crafted with the help of a Local Planning Committee, comprising municipal representatives and community stakeholders, guided by state planners and private sector experts. The goal is to ensure that the investments not only fulfill current community needs but also pave the way for future prosperity and resilience.

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This initiative is a part of Governor Hochul’s vision to revitalize New York’s downtowns as thriving neighborhoods that offer new opportunities for residents and businesses alike. With the continued support of the DRI and NY Forward programs, these communities are set to become exemplars of urban innovation and sustainable development in the state.

More details can be found here.