Several municipalities in the Hudson Valley, including Poughkeepsie, Nyack, and Dobbs Ferry, are receiving substantial funding from New York State's Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) and NY Forward programs. Governor Kathy Hochul announced that Poughkeepsie will receive $10 million as part of the DRI, while Nyack and Dobbs Ferry will each receive $4.5 million from NY Forward.

The funding aims to transform these downtown areas into vibrant neighborhoods by supporting affordable housing, local businesses, and sustainable infrastructure. Poughkeepsie's downtown corridor, a hub for commercial and transportation activities, will benefit from various development projects, streetscape improvements, and building renovations. The city plans to enhance its Main Street Corridor, linking it to critical assets and attractions, including the Bardavon 1869 Opera House and the Mid-Hudson Civic Center, as reported by Governor Hochul's office.

Nyack, with its rich history and proximity to New York City, plans to leverage its $4.5 million award to boost business growth, affordable housing, and access to the waterfront. Dobbs Ferry will use its grant to improve key properties and pedestrian corridors, enhancing its downtown's sustainability and walkability, according to Real Estate In-Depth.

These initiatives are part of a broader effort to revitalize downtown areas across New York State, with the DRI and NY Forward programs having committed $900 million to projects in 89 communities since their inception. The awarded towns will now develop Strategic Investment Plans to guide the use of the funds, aiming to foster economic growth and improve quality of life for residents, as noted by Times Union.

Theresa Lucas