The city will be applying for $10 million in funds under the state’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) program and is seeking public input to help shape that submission.
The program, created in 2016, is intended to transform downtown neighborhoods into vibrant centers that offer a high quality of life and are magnets for redevelopment, business, job creation and economic and housing density and diversity. The state encourages compact, walkable downtowns as a way to rebuild the economy from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as achieve the state’s climate goals by promoting the use of public transit and reducing dependence on private vehicles.
In collaboration with the Common Council, the city held a public meeting last week in the Common Council Chambers to discuss the application.
The city is also using the feedback social media platform Jotto to get insights from residents regarding business development and public-private partnerships. Residents are being asked for their views on four questions:
What steps can attract new businesses to the downtown area?
What public/private partnerships could boost downtown’s economic and physical growth?
How can the city incentivize private investments in downtown?
What additional measures could encourage private investments in downtown?
You can use the QR Code at top or this link to answer the questions. The city greatly appreciates your feedback and is accepting comments through the end of today.
The city’s target area stretches from the train station to North Cherry Street between the arterials. The idea is to create an active downtown with a strong sense of place and attract new businesses that create a robust mix of shopping, entertainment and service options for residents and visitors alike.
For this grant award, the state puts an emphasis on shovel-ready revitalization projects that can demonstrate viability. To find out more about the DRI process, click este enlace.
If you have any questions about this grant process, contact city Planner Richard Distel at rdistel@cityofpoughkeepsie.com