The City of Canandaigua and the Village of Phelps are poised for transformative growth after securing millions in state funding through New York’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) and NY Forward Program. Canandaigua will receive $10 million from the eighth round of DRI, while Phelps will benefit from $4.5 million in NY Forward funding, Governor Kathy Hochul announced today.
Governor Hochul emphasized the long-term potential of these investments. “By investing in the future of these Finger Lakes communities, this funding will revitalize their downtown areas by building vibrant and thriving destinations where businesses, families, and visitors can flourish,” she said.
The City of Canandaigua, a growing residential and recreational hub, plans to enhance its downtown by connecting the lakefront with safe pedestrian pathways and expanding arts, business, and housing opportunities. Mayor Bob Palumbo expressed enthusiasm for the impact of the funding. “I look forward to seeing the projects we supported in our DRI proposal unlock opportunities that create new jobs, add housing, and public amenities in our downtown,” he said, thanking the Governor and city leaders.
Phelps, a village with deep historical roots and a population of 1,900, will direct its funding toward enhancing its walkable downtown area through streetscaping and other aesthetic improvements. The goal is to create an attractive, seamless experience for residents and visitors alike. Mayor Jim Cheney described the funding as a game-changer for the community. “The residents of Phelps have been working hard to attract more visitors, businesses, and housing to our community,” Cheney said. “This investment by the state will help push us over the top in our revitalization efforts.”
Both communities will now begin the process of developing Strategic Investment Plans, led by Local Planning Committees and supported by experts and state agencies. The projects will be designed to maximize impact, fostering economic growth and sustainability for generations.
“Congratulations to the City of Canandaigua on its DRI award and to the Village of Phelps on its NY Forward award,” State Sen. Pam Helming said. “This state investment not only supports housing and small business growth but can also help stimulate additional private investment in our downtowns and in the broader community. As State Senator, I was proud to support the City of Canandaigua and Village of Phelps in their applications and I celebrate these wins with them.”
Through nine rounds of the DRI and three rounds of NY Forward, New York has committed a combined $1.2 billion to downtown revitalization efforts across the state. These programs play a crucial role in achieving the state’s economic development and climate goals by promoting walkable communities and reducing reliance on private vehicles.
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