Governor Kathy Hochul has announced the completion of a $9.7 million historic rehabilitation of the 1902 Lockport Post Office, marking a milestone for the city’s downtown redevelopment. The project was supported by $1.795 million in funding from New York State’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI).
Located at One East Avenue, the three-story Beaux Arts building—on the National Register of Historic Places since 1989—has been fully modernized while preserving its original architectural character. The post office now houses boutique retail and office suites and is anchored by Big Ditch Brewing’s new Tap Room and Innovation Brewery.
A model for adaptive reuse
The project, led by Iskalo Development Corp., included a full restoration of historic interior and exterior elements alongside upgrades such as new mechanical, electrical, plumbing, sprinkler systems, and an elevator installation.
“The revitalization of the Historic Post Office will allow Lockport’s rich history to live on through generations to come,” said Governor Hochul. “We’re showing what’s possible when we invest in preserving our heritage while building for the future.”
The Grigg Lewis Foundation became the building’s first tenant, signaling momentum for Lockport’s evolving downtown economy.
Revitalizing Lockport’s canal corridor
The Historic Post Office project is part of a broader $10 million investment through Lockport’s DRI award, which also includes:
- $2.2 million for rooftop and outdoor event space at the Spalding Mill
- $1.35 million for redevelopment of the F&M Building
- $955,000 to support commercial space at Harrison Lofts
- $800,000 to transform the Tuscarora Club into a boutique hotel
- $600,000 for renovations at the Historic Palace Theatre
“This is a catalyst for our city,” said Lockport Mayor John Lombardi III. “We’ve created a new destination that celebrates our history and welcomes future growth.”
Featured in global canal conference
Lockport will be highlighted as a case study during the World Canals Conference in Buffalo this September. The New York Department of State will showcase Lockport’s downtown transformation as an example of successful canal corridor revitalization through the DRI program.
Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said, “Lockport is harnessing its canal heritage to spark growth and become a world-class destination.”
Since its creation in 2016, the DRI has awarded $900 million to 89 communities across the state. The initiative aims to transform walkable downtowns into thriving economic and cultural hubs.
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