(WNY News Now) – NY – Governor Kathy Hochul announced the allocation of $19 million for 22 transformational projects across Western New York as part of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) and NY Forward programs. Dunkirk, the winner of a $10 million DRI award, will see nine new projects. Wellsville and Lancaster, each recipients of $4.5 million NY Forward awards, will benefit from seven and six projects, respectively.

“New York’s downtowns are the heartbeat of our state, and the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs help us fulfil our commitment to uplifting communities in every region,” Governor Hochul said. “These projects in Western New York will help revitalize our beautiful downtowns and create more opportunities for New Yorkers to build thriving communities for future generations.”

Dunkirk’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative

Dunkirk was selected as the Western New York winner of the sixth round of the DRI. The nine projects in Dunkirk, totaling $9.7 million, aim to harness the city’s connection to Lake Erie, attract new investments, and activate its waterfront and historic business district. Key projects include:

• Renovation of the Dunkirk Macaroni Company Building ($500,000)
• Establishment of a Downtown Dunkirk Small Project Fund ($473,000)
• Update of the Clarion Hotel Building and Grounds ($1,000,000)
• Redevelopment of the Lake Shore National Bank Building ($900,000)
• Refurbishment of the Graf Building for a Workforce Development Training Center ($2,200,000)
• Expansion of the Dunkirk Marina ($2,000,000)
• Construction of affordable apartments and a daycare facility ($500,000)
• Enhancement of the Chadwick Bay Marina ($1,000,000)
• Revival of the historic Adams Building for arts and youth programming ($1,127,000)

Dunkirk Mayor Kate Wdowiasz said, “The City would like to thank Governor Hochul, for this incredible announcement. The City of Dunkirk was profoundly grateful to be named the Western New York winner of the sixth round of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative. For generations, Dunkirk’s waterfront has been a source of pride and potential. Today, with this transformative investment, we will be able to harness the power of Lake Erie to create a vibrant destination that celebrates our unique heritage and diversity.”

Wellsville’s NY Forward Projects

Wellsville, with seven projects totaling $4.5 million, aims to create a contemporary and revitalized downtown. Major projects include:

• Renovation of the Daily Reporter building ($762,000)
• Development of new branding and signage for the village ($90,000)
• Establishment of a Wellsville NYF Small Project Fund ($449,000)
• Transformation of the Depot into an event center and museum ($1,228,000)
• Development of a new dining and entertainment space at the Well ($640,000)
• Improvement of gateways to the village ($551,000)
• Expansion of the Creative Arts Center ($780,000)

Lancaster’s NY Forward Projects

Lancaster will see six projects, also totaling $4.5 million, focusing on creating an equitable, resilient, and sustainable downtown. Key initiatives include:

• Expansion of the Lancaster Village Center with a new mixed-use building ($881,000)
• Creation of a Small Project Fund for building and business enhancements ($300,000)
• Construction of new senior housing along Plum Bottom Creek ($900,000)
• Development of a new pocket park at the Municipal Building ($206,000)
• Renovation of the Opera House and Town Hall ($1,156,000)
• Renovation of the Boys & Girls Club and creation of a new teen center ($1,057,000)

Local and State Leaders Praise Investments

Acting New York Secretary of State Brendan C. Hughes emphasized the potential for Dunkirk’s waterfront activities and the sustainable growth in Wellsville and Lancaster. Empire State Development President Hope Knight highlighted the strategic approach in Dunkirk, while Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas noted the community-focused nature of the projects.

Local officials, including mayors and state representatives, expressed gratitude for the investments and the anticipated positive impact on their communities.

Strategic Vision for Revitalization

Both DRI and NY Forward are designed to couple strategic planning with immediate implementation, fostering economic development and socio-economic growth across New York’s downtowns. Since their inception, these programs have invested a combined total of $1.2 billion in 124 downtown communities, enhancing economic development, promoting quality of life, and supporting the state’s climate goals.