New York Construction Report staff writer
Work is officially underway on two major downtown infrastructure projects in the Village of Potsdam to improve pedestrian connections, create public spaces and reconnect the community with the Raquette River.
The Village broke ground on its $5.26 million Streetscape and Riverwalk projects, key components of its Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) plan. The projects target the Market Street Historic District and adjacent waterfront areas, with a focus on walkability, safety and long-term economic development.
“This groundbreaking marks an exciting step forward for Potsdam as it continues to reconnect its downtown with the natural beauty of its waterfront,” said Walter T. Mosley. “Through strategic investments like these Streetscape and Riverwalk projects, we are helping communities create vibrant, walkable spaces that support local businesses, attract visitors and improve quality of life for residents. Under the leadership of Governor Kathy Hochul, New York State remains committed to strengthening our downtowns and ensuring they are engines of opportunity and pride for generations to come.”
The Streetscape project will upgrade the Market Street Historic District with intersection improvements, enhanced lighting, new trees, wayfinding signage and safer pedestrian access. Officials said the work is intended to improve sidewalk conditions and strengthen links between downtown and the river.
The Riverwalk project will construct a looped, multimodal trail along the Raquette River, featuring a shared-use path, park amenities, a skateboard park and a mural walk.
Initial work began in fall 2025 on Raymond Street and the Art Walk segment of the Riverwalk. The latest phase marks the start of construction in the core of downtown, which officials say will be the most visible portion of the effort.
Together, the projects are intended to support local businesses, encourage new investment and increase foot traffic by creating a more connected and accessible downtown environment.
The Village of Potsdam was selected as a North Country winner in the fourth round of the DRI program in 2019, joining other regional communities including Ogdensburg, Malone, Lowville, Massena, Tupper Lake, Ticonderoga, Saranac Lake, Watertown and Plattsburgh.
Additional DRI-funded projects in Potsdam include a downtown branding campaign, expansion of the North Country Children’s Museum, expansion of the Potsdam Food Co-op, renovations to the Creative Spirit Community Arts Center and a Rebuild Downtown Potsdam Fund supporting small business and building improvements.
“Empire State Development’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative funds are a powerful catalyst for Potsdam,” said Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight. “By bridging the historic village and the Raquette River, these streetscape and riverwalk enhancements create a more interconnected and accessible downtown that invites new investment, supports local small businesses, and leverages the river as a driver for tourism and community pride.”
