May 20, 2024
GOVERNOR HOCHUL ANNOUNCES 22 TRANSFORMATIONAL PROJECTS IN WESTERN NEW YORK AS PART OF DOWNTOWN REVITALIZATION INITIATIVE AND NY FORWARD PROGRAMS
Projects Announced in Dunkirk, Wellsville and Lancaster
The 7 Wellsville NY Forward Projects, totaling $4.5 Million, include:
The Village of Wellsville plans to create a contemporary and revitalized downtown that enhances quality of life, promotes health and wellness and boosts tax revenue by supporting business growth. It will foster a vibrant, sustainable, and diverse economy that is active throughout all four-seasons, capitalizing on its ecotourism potential and leveraging its small-town charm, craft food and beverage businesses, unique arts and culture and access to picturesque vistas and outdoor activities. It will prioritize adaptive reuse and façade upgrades, housing and infill development and public infrastructure improvements necessary to creating a dynamic downtown.
Revise the Daily Reporter ($762,000)
Renovate a former printing facility into new commercial space on the 1st floor, and rental units on upper floor.
Develop New Branding and Signage for the Village of Wellsville ($90,000)
Develop a branding and wayfinding plan and new village website.
Establish the Wellsville NYF Small Project Fund ($449,000)
Establish a Small Project Fund to support applicants with building and business improvements.
Transform the Depot into an Event Center & Museum ($1,228,000)
Transform a former train depot into a new event space and railroad themed museum.
Experience Entertainment at the Well ($640,000)
Develop a new dining, entertainment and event space within the former municipal building.
Improve Gateways to the Village of Wellsville ($551,000)
Enhance the pedestrian experience on State Street with safer and more appealing crossings, expanded sidewalks and the addition of decorative fencing and flag mounts on the Madison Street memorial bridge.
Expand Space and Offerings at the Creative Arts Center ($780,000)
Expand art studio offerings by renovating studio spaces, installing a freight elevator, and purchasing a new kiln; renovate space to create new apartments and workspaces for artists; and make upgrades to the building exterior and mechanical systems.
WNYREDC Co-Chair and Campus Labs Founder Eric Reich said, “The Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward are two of New York State’s preeminent programs for downtown renewal. The transformational projects announced today for Dunkirk, Wellsville and Lancaster after a year of strategic planning will strengthen and bring new activity to these vital Western New York communities.”
WNYREDC Co-Chair and Canisius University President Steve Stoute said, “The 24 projects announced today for Dunkirk, Lancaster and Wellsville will invigorate these downtowns and serve as a catalyst for additional investment. The DRI and NY Forward are two of the most effective state programs for catalyzing economic development, invigorating our downtowns and creating more opportunities in Western New York.”
State Senator Patrick Gallivan said, “New York’s investment in revitalizing downtown communities will support existing businesses, encourage new development and improve the quality of life for residents and visitors. Lancaster’s commitment to these projects will continue the transformation of the downtown area and provide new opportunities for the entire community.”
State Senator Tom O’Mara said, “The Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs have had an enormously positive impact on communities I represent across the Western New York and Southern Tier regions. These critical state investments have helped our local communities and leaders move forward on projects to bolster local economies, spark economic growth and opportunity within the tourism sector and other small businesses and industries, ease the burden on local property taxpayers, and strengthen the overall quality of life for community residents and families.”
Assemblymember Joseph Giglio said, “This is great news for the Village of Wellsville and all of Allegany County. This $4.5 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward grant will enable the Village of Wellsville to pursue its vision as a destination for business, industry and tourism. I want to thank Gov. Hochul and New York State for recognizing the need to support communities in Western New York as they reinvent themselves and build a brighter future for our residents.”
Wellsville Mayor Randy M. Shayler said, “Thank you to Governor Hochul, the Department of State, and everyone involved in NYForward. Wellsville’s award and the projects selected will positively impact our community for decades to come! NYForward has become the catalyst for our economic growth, beyond its $4.5 Million funding. We have just begun to see its full impact.”
