Mid-Hudson Communities Awarded $19 Million Through State Revitalization Programs
Three Mid-Hudson communities are set to receive a combined $19 million in state funding through New York's Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) and NY Forward programs, supporting projects aimed at strengthening local economies, enhancing quality of life, and encouraging future investment.
Governor Kathy Hochul recently announced that the City of Yonkers has been selected as the Mid-Hudson Region winner of the ninth round of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and will receive $10 million in funding. In addition, the Village of Ellenville and the Hamlet of Livingston Manor in the Town of Rockland have each been awarded $4.5 million through the fourth round of the NY Forward program.
The awards are part of New York State's continued investment in downtown redevelopment and economic growth. Through the current funding round, each of the state's ten economic development regions receives funding through both programs, representing a statewide commitment of $200 million. Since their inception, the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs have generated approximately $1.4 billion in public investment across New York.
According to state officials, the selected communities demonstrated strong redevelopment strategies, community support, and a clear vision for future growth.
"Yonkers, Ellenville and Livingston Manor each brought forward bold, community-driven visions rooted in their own distinct character and potential," said Mid-Hudson Regional Economic Development Council Co-Chairs Dr. Marsha Gordon and Dr. Kristine Young in a joint statement. "Whether along the Hudson waterfront, in the Rondout Valley or in the heart of the Catskills, these communities are ready to build on existing momentum and write their next chapter of growth."
For REALTORS®, these investments represent more than infrastructure improvements. Downtown revitalization initiatives often serve as catalysts for additional private investment, housing development, business growth, placemaking efforts, and community enhancements that can strengthen local real estate markets over time.
Yonkers continues to experience significant redevelopment activity along its waterfront and downtown districts, while Ellenville and Livingston Manor have emerged as examples of smaller communities leveraging tourism, entrepreneurship, and strategic investment to support economic growth and community revitalization.
The awarded communities will now work with state agencies, local stakeholders, and planning teams to identify and implement projects that align with their revitalization goals.
State investment in downtown revitalization can help attract businesses, encourage housing development, improve public spaces, and support long-term economic growth. These initiatives often create opportunities for public-private partnerships and can enhance the attractiveness and competitiveness of local communities throughout the region.
