Waterloo, Webster and Macedon receive funding for 31 transformative projects
The Finger Lakes region is receiving a major boost in state investment as Governor Kathy Hochul announced $19 million in awards for 31 revitalization projects across Waterloo, Webster, and Macedon. The funding is part of New York State’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) and NY Forward programs, designed to strengthen local economies and enhance quality of life in small-town downtowns.
The projects span historic preservation, housing, infrastructure, recreation, public space enhancements, and marketing—all aimed at building vibrant, walkable communities that attract both residents and visitors.
Waterloo: $9.7 million for 13 projects
Waterloo, awarded $10 million as a Round 7 DRI winner, will implement 13 projects to revitalize its downtown along the Cayuga-Seneca Canal. Highlights include:
- A year-round sports and recreation facility at the Community Center ($1.66M)
- A multi-modal gathering hub on the southwest block ($1.37M)
- A new library wing and museum expansion ($1.27M)
- Housing development at 1 East Main Street and new office space on West Main
- Main Street improvements such as rain gardens, trees, and pedestrian features
- A branding and wayfinding strategy to boost tourism and navigation
Webster: $4.5 million for 11 projects
Webster, a Round 2 NY Forward winner, is focusing on improving community venues, public spaces, and commercial revitalization. Notable projects include:
- Upgrades to Veterans Memorial Park and Harmony House for events and performances
- Creation of a multipurpose conservatory with solar panels at Kittelberger Florist
- Enhancements to downtown wayfinding and gateway features
- Renovations to commercial spaces and the launch of a small project grant fund
Macedon: $4.5 million for 7 projects
Macedon’s projects will strengthen the town’s historic hamlet business district and promote housing and commercial reuse. Key initiatives include:
- Renovating the former Village Hall as a new ambulance headquarters ($1.25M)
- Developing a residential campus at 2 West Street ($920K)
- Creating a mixed-use anchor with loft apartments and food retail ($915K)
- Expanding recreational offerings at Gravino Park ($740K)
- Activating long-vacant storefronts and investing in restaurant and auto services
Part of a broader strategy
The DRI and NY Forward programs are central to New York’s smart growth strategy, requiring a “Pro-Housing Community” designation to qualify for state support. More than 300 municipalities have earned that certification, unlocking access to $650 million in discretionary state funds.
Governor Hochul emphasized the impact of these investments:
“Through the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward, we are empowering local leaders, driving smart growth, and creating vibrant, resilient downtowns where people want to live, work, and visit.”
What happens next?
Each municipality developed a Strategic Investment Plan with extensive community input. The state will now work with local leaders to launch implementation and ensure the projects create lasting benefits for residents and businesses.
To learn more about the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs, visit regionalcouncils.ny.gov.
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