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The City of Poughkeepsie's Planning Committee will host a public meeting on Monday (May 5) at 5 p.m. at City Hall. This meeting follows the city's recent award of $10 million from New York State's Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI). The funding aims to support development projects, streetscape improvements, and facade renovations in the downtown area.
Mayor Flowers, along with other local officials, celebrated the grant announcement made by New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley. According to City of Poughkeepsie, Mayor Flowers expressed gratitude for the funding, highlighting years of planning and collaboration that led to this achievement. The DRI funding is expected to accelerate the revitalization of Poughkeepsie's downtown, which has been gradually rebounding.
The public meeting will allow community members to voice their opinions and contribute to the planning process. The meeting will also address the Draft 2025-2029 Consolidated Plan, 2025 Annual Action Plan, and Citizen Participation Plan, which outline the allocation of Community Development Block Grant and HOME Investment Partnerships Program funds. These documents are available for public review and comment until May 30, 2025, as noted by City of Poughkeepsie.
Former Mayor and current New York State Senator Rob Rolison described the DRI funding as a "game-changer" for the city. He emphasized the dedication of local leaders and residents in shaping a vibrant future for Poughkeepsie. The city's downtown corridor serves as a central hub for civic, commercial, and entertainment activities in the Mid-Hudson Valley, attracting numerous visitors throughout the year, as reported by New York State Senate.