Governor Kathy Hochul announces the first 13 projects in Rochester’s $300 million Regional Revitalization Partnership, targeting economic growth and poverty alleviation.
In a significant step towards revitalizing economically distressed neighborhoods in Rochester, Governor Kathy Hochul has unveiled 13 initial projects funded through the Regional Revitalization Partnership (RRP). This initiative, a collaborative effort between New York State, local municipalities, and private philanthropic partners, aims to inject nearly $37 million into these projects, building on the governor’s commitment to combat poverty and foster economic development.
Governor Hochul emphasized the model’s potential to serve as a national example of public-private partnerships driving economic progress in underserved communities. “By targeting the most underserved neighborhoods in these cities, New York State is lifting up and transforming these disadvantaged communities and building a more equitable future for all New Yorkers,” she stated.
The selected projects include a range of developments such as the West Main Street Commercial Corridor Program, the remediation of Falls Street at High Falls State Park, and the Aqueduct Park District revitalization. These initiatives aim to bolster small businesses, improve local infrastructure, and enhance workforce skills, thus creating new job opportunities and fostering community wealth.
The RRP represents a $300 million investment, with New York State contributing $200 million, the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation and other philanthropic partners committing $81 million, and city and county governments providing the remaining $19 million. This strategic initiative seeks to maximize social and economic impact in Rochester, Buffalo, and Niagara Falls through targeted co-investments.
Empire State Development President Hope Knight highlighted the strategic collaboration’s potential to bring transformative change to marginalized neighborhoods, ensuring long-term sustainable growth. Similarly, David Egner of the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation praised the innovative approach to place-based economic development, anticipating significant regional benefits.
Rochester Mayor Malik D. Evans and Monroe County Executive Adam Bello both expressed gratitude for the ongoing investments and collaborative efforts that promise to bring enduring improvements to Rochester’s communities.
The RRP’s projects are part of a broader strategy, including significant investments in Buffalo’s East Side and Niagara Falls, aimed at addressing infrastructure needs, fostering small business growth, and providing comprehensive workforce training.
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