Projects Announced in Clinton, Kirkland, Cooperstown, Dolgeville and Sharon Springs
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced a total of 28 transformational projects for the Mohawk Valley region as part of two economic development programs: the Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) and NY Forward. Eleven projects were announced for the Village of Clinton and Town of Kirkland, the Round 6 winner of a $10 million DRI award. Eight projects were announced for the Village of Cooperstown, a Round 1 winner of a $4.5 million NY Forward award. The Villages of Dolgeville and Sharon Springs, both Round 1 NY Forward winners with $2.25 million awards, received four and five projects, respectively.
“The Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs are essential in supporting New York’s downtowns,” Governor Hochul said. “Funding for these projects will assist communities to carry out their visions to energize their communities and enhance quality of life for their residents and all those who visit.”
Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI)
The Village of Clinton and the Town of Kirkland were named the Mohawk Valley’s winner of the sixth round of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative in 2023. The eleven projects selected seek to encourage an inclusive and accessible community by rebuilding key public spaces, develop affordable housing units in close proximity to downtown amenities and invest in key downtown institutions like the Kirkland Art Center.
This new investment, coupled with past funding, will create a strong foundation for revitalizing downtowns. This includes the rehabilitation and adaptive reuse of historic buildings, along with infill development offering mixed-income housing options.
The DRI investments are part of the Governor's ongoing efforts to revitalize the economy and create more opportunities in the Mohawk Valley. The DRI is led by the Department of State, which provides technical assistance as each participating community develops a Strategic Investment Plan identifying specific projects which, together, realize a unique vision for the revitalization of the downtown area.
The DRI-funded projects directly complement the community’s Strategic Investment Plan. They are consistent with the key goals outlined in the plan, such as emphasizing the Town & Village’s unique character through genuine experiences. This focus on authenticity aims to attract new residents and businesses, fostering organic growth. Additionally, the awarded projects prioritize inclusive development, ensuring that the Clinton-Kirkland community’s rich heritage and diversity are celebrated and respected.
The Village of Clinton and Town of Kirkland joined the communities of Utica, Rome, Amsterdam, Oneonta, Gloversville, and Little Falls, which were the Mohawk Valley's winners in the first five DRI rounds.
The $9.7 million State investment in these projects through the DRI will leverage additional public and private investments as the revitalization process proceeds and builds momentum.