The City of Poughkeepsie is set to host its second public planning meeting on Monday (June 2) to discuss the Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) funded by a $10 million grant from New York State. The meeting will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. in the Common Council Chambers, where public comments will be welcomed at the end of the session.

Poughkeepsie was awarded the $10 million as the Mid-Hudson Region winner of the eighth round of the DRI, which aims to transform downtown areas into vibrant neighborhoods. The city plans to use up to $300,000 of the grant for planning purposes, creating a Strategic Investment Plan (SIP) to identify projects in economic development, transportation, housing, and community improvements. According to the City of Poughkeepsie, the SIP will guide the investment of the DRI funds to align with the community's vision.

Mayor Flowers and other local leaders have expressed excitement about the potential impact of the funding. Mayor Flowers stated, "Receiving the Downtown Revitalization Initiative funding is a testament to the collaboration among the city administration, Common Council, and our community partners." The funds are expected to accelerate the revitalization of the downtown area, which has been steadily improving.

Former mayor and current New York State Senator Rob Rolison emphasized the transformative potential of the investment, stating, "This investment is a game-changer for the City of Poughkeepsie, reinforcing the ongoing transformation into a dynamic and thriving downtown." As reported by the City of Poughkeepsie, the DRI funding will support various development projects, streetscape improvements, and facade renovations.

The city is also part of Governor Kathy Hochul's Pro-Housing Communities Program, which supports municipalities working to increase housing supply. This initiative allocates significant funds for infrastructure projects necessary to create new housing in certified communities. The New York State Senate highlights that Poughkeepsie's downtown corridor serves as a central hub for Dutchess County and the Mid-Hudson Valley, attracting residents and visitors alike.

The meeting on Monday will provide an opportunity for community members to engage with municipal and community leaders about the future of Poughkeepsie's downtown area.

Chris Davis