Canandaigua officials have revealed the slate of projects tied to the city’s $10 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative award, outlining an ambitious plan aimed at expanding housing, strengthening small business districts, and reshaping public gathering spaces throughout the downtown core.
The projects, announced by Gov. Kathy Hochul last week and described by state officials as “transformational,” span Main Street, Coach Street, and Phoenix Street, combining public infrastructure work with private redevelopment efforts designed to build a denser, more active downtown economy.
Mayor Bob Palumbo said the mix of projects reflects a broader effort to preserve Canandaigua’s historic identity while encouraging new investment and residential growth.
The initiative includes several housing-focused redevelopment projects aimed at bringing more residents into the downtown district.
At 100 South Main St., a $1.2 million project will renovate the building and create new housing opportunities while upgrading the facade. Another $791,000 project at 88-92 South Main St. will rehabilitate upper floors to add apartments. A separate $772,000 investment at 143 South Main St. will reactivate second-floor space for additional residential use.
City and business leaders have long argued that expanding downtown housing is critical to supporting restaurants, retail, and year-round economic activity.
Several projects also focus on strengthening downtown Canandaigua as a regional destination.
Peacemaker Brewing Co. on Coach Street will receive $389,000 to expand its operations and increase its capacity for live music and events throughout the year. The Central on Main outdoor dining and events space will undergo a $1.14 million redesign intended to improve comfort, usability, and flexibility for community events.
Another $870,000 project at 97 South Main St. will renovate a historic building into a community arts hub where residents and visitors can gather, create, and participate in programming.
City planners are also targeting side streets adjacent to Main Street for major pedestrian-oriented upgrades.
Phoenix Street will see a $1.3 million redesign focused on walkability, outdoor dining, and streetscape improvements intended to build on the corridor’s growing cluster of bars, restaurants, and shops.
Coach Street, which has become one of downtown’s busiest restaurant corridors, will receive nearly $1.93 million for streetscape enhancements connecting Main Street and Bemis Street. Officials say the goal is to strengthen the area as a pedestrian-friendly business district.
The revitalization package also includes a $600,000 small project grant fund that will support facade improvements, new retail and residential projects, public art, and small business ventures downtown.
Historic preservation work is also included in the initiative. Canandaigua City Hall, originally built in the early 1820s, will receive $651,000 for masonry repairs, finish restoration, and related site improvements.
State officials created the Downtown Revitalization Initiative to help communities accelerate economic development projects in walkable downtown districts. Canandaigua was selected for the Finger Lakes region’s latest round of funding in 2025.
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