New York Construction Report staff writer
The City of Yonkers is hoping for a grant from the New York State Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) to help pay for a downtown revitalization.
“We’re applying for the NY State Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) aiming to infuse vibrance into our waterfront area,” officials state on the website. “With potentially $10 million on the line, we welcome your thoughts on this transformative journey.”
The city is hosting webinars to share details on Oct. 7 starting at 6 p.m. Participants can join with this link: bit.ly/3XxtmIW.
“Our vision is to transform the Yonkers downtown waterfront into a vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive destination that celebrates our rich history while embracing a dynamic future,” Mayor Spanos said. “By revitalizing this vital area, we will develop new accessibility and aim to create a thriving community space that enhances the quality of life for residents, attracts visitors, and fosters economic growth.
“The Yonkers waterfront will be a place where natural beauty meets urban innovation, offering diverse recreational opportunities, supporting local businesses, and promoting environmental stewardship through a multi-pronged approach.”
Proposed projects include several streetscapes and:
Waterfront Access Pedestrian Bridge
- transform an existing utility bridge at the end of Point Street that has been dilapidated and unusable for decades into a marquis pedestrian access over the Metro North rail tracks
- ADA-accessible bridge will provide pedestrian access to thousands of inland residents to the waterfront and esplanade areas, eliminating a long time barrier to Hudson River access
Waterfront Esplanade
- continue the Hudson River esplanade north from the Downtown that has been created in phases over the past 20 years
- esplanade will stretch from the existing terminus near Ashburton Avenue north to the Point Street pedestrian bridge, creating more than two miles of continuous walkway along the river
New Boat Marina
- in partnership with Extell Development Company, the city plans to create a new marina that can accommodate up to 27 small and medium-sized watercraft
Hudson River Beach
- in partnership with Extell Development, build a man-made beach along the River for the public to enjoy. This direct waterfront access will allow for small watercraft activity such as kayaks and paddleboats
State funding is available for projects within communities to boost their economies by transforming downtowns into vibrant neighborhoods. If awarded, the city will receive $10 million toward revitalization projects throughout the DRI boundary area.