Two major Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) projects in North Tonawanda have been completed, Governor Kathy Hochul announced during the World Canals Conference. The city, known as the “Gateway to the Erie Canal,” is hosting conference visitors from around the world, highlighting local efforts in adaptive reuse and waterfront revitalization.
Governor Hochul said, “New York’s canal system has long been a source of pride, prosperity and economic development, and today they continue to drive growth and opportunity in canal communities like North Tonawanda. With the completion of these DRI projects, we are strengthening the downtown, supporting local businesses and ensuring this community remains a vibrant destination for residents and visitors alike. As the world looks to Western New York during the World Canals Conference, North Tonawanda is showing how smart investments can honor our history while building a stronger future.”
The Riviera Theatre underwent renovations that expanded its nearly century-old facility into an adjacent commercial building. The project included more than 6,000 square feet of new space with ADA-compliant restrooms, concession area, box office and artist merchandise area. Funding included $1.2 million from the DRI program and $500,000 from the State Legislature.
At the Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum Music Hall—a portion of which collapsed in 1995—restoration work created climate-controlled exhibit space for band organs and an exhibit on Wurlitzer Perforation Department methods. This location is unique as it continues to produce band organ rolls using historical techniques. The restoration received $210,000 from DRI funds along with additional support from Empire State Development (ESD), Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY), New York State Parks and New York Power Authority.
North Tonawanda was previously named a Western New York winner for Round 5 of DRI funding; other regional recipients include Jamestown, Olean, Lockport, Niagara Falls, Dunkirk, Buffalo, Tonawanda and Cattaraugus.
Twelve additional local projects have also received DRI funding: these include brownfield remediation at 211 Main Street before new office construction; development of apartment complexes on Goundry Street; mixed-use buildings on Webster Street; public river walk creation at 624 River Road; Railroad Museum rehabilitation; streetscape improvements on Oliver and Webster Streets; enhanced waterfront access on Tonawanda Island; grants for commercial property improvement; conversion of 27 Main Street into a prep kitchen/restaurant/multitenant space; rehabilitation at 230 Oliver Street for mixed residential/commercial use; upgrades to affordable housing units at 235-239 Oliver Street.
Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley commented: “The DRI is transforming communities across the state…By completing these projects, North Tonawanda is not only enhancing its waterfront and historic character but also creating new opportunities for economic development…Thanks to Governor Hochul for championing the future of New York’s downtowns.”
Empire State Development President Hope Knight stated: “The historic Riviera Theatre has become a beacon for new businesses in North Tonawanda…It is good to see the Riviera and restored Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum Music Hall both contributing to the resurrection of the community.”
NYSERDA President Doreen Harris added: “In New York, public-private revitalization efforts are utilizing modern…solutions…The transformation of North Tonawanda’s downtown will help move their community…forward as we continue our transition to a clean energy economy.”
DASNY President Robert J. Rodriguez remarked: “As Secretary of State I had …the opportunity to visit North Tonawanda … Now … I am proud that our grant programs supported [the] restoration … Thanks to Governor Hochul’s leadership … projects like this not only preserve history but also create new opportunities for growth…”
State Parks Commissioner Pro Tempore Randy Simons said: “Our historic buildings have anchored our communities for generations … Preservation…collaboration…and innovation are great partners for transformative projects…”
New York Power Authority CEO Justin E. Driscoll commented: “Through [DRI], New York is making targeted investments in projects that honor our communities’ rich histories…” Nearly $300K from NYPA supported restoration at Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum’s music hall.
Brian U. Stratton from NYS Canal Corporation stated: “As canal stewards …we have Governor Hochul’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative program to thank…North Tonawanda is one shining example…”
Assemblymember William Conrad highlighted collaboration among leaders: “North Tonawanda’s downtown renaissance represents …the city’s leadership…[and] many community and government partners…”
Mayor Austin Tylec said: “North Tonawanda is proud to showcase these transformational projects during [the conference]. The expansion…[and] restoration…are investments in our history…”
Earlier this month saw another $100 million announced by Governor Hochul for Round 9 DRI applications (due November 7) as well as $100 million more through NY Forward—a separate program started in 2022 focused on smaller rural areas—bringing total state awards through both programs since inception to $1.2 billion benefiting over 150 communities.
Launched in 2016 by New York State’s Department of State with support from HCR,Empire State Development (ESD), NYSERDA, DASNY,State Parks , NYPA,Canal Corporation, among others—the Downtown Revitalization Initiative aims to stimulate neighborhood centers statewide through strategic planning paired with immediate action.
