New York Construction Report staff writer
In an effort to bolster community revitalization efforts across the state, applications for the next $60 million round of the Restore New York grant program opened yesterday (Feb. 22).
Administered by Empire State Development, the program supports municipalities with projects to demolish, rehabilitate and restore blighted structures, to transform them into residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments.
Interested municipalities can access the application for the current funding round here.
“With Restore New York, we’re putting up $60 million in funding to breathe life back into communities all across our state,” said Governor Kathy Hochul. “This program gives municipalities the support they need to turn blighted, rundown buildings into housing, commercial hubs, and more, and any local leader ready to unlock their community’s potential should apply.”
Eligible projects should align with the regional strategic plan of the Regional Economic Development Council and adhere to architectural consistency with nearby properties or the municipality’s local revitalization or urban development plan.
Funding can be allocated for vacant, abandoned, condemned, or surplus buildings, which may undergo demolition, deconstruction, rehabilitation, or reconstruction. Priority will be given to projects in economically distressed communities, those leveraging state or federal redevelopment funds, and projects demonstrating feasibility and readiness.
Cities with populations over 100,000 may apply for up to $4 million for one project and those with populations between 40,000 and 99,999 may apply for one project up to $3 million.
All other municipalities may apply for one project up to $2 million.
Communities interested in applying are encouraged to register here for the instructional webinar hosted by ESD on February 27. An intent to apply form must be received by ESD by March 25, 2024. Further details on the program and requirements are available at esd.ny.gov/restore-new-york.
