Governor Kathy Hochul announced on May 13 that the Village of Valley Stream will receive $10 million as the Long Island winner of the ninth round of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative, while the Village of Patchogue will receive $4.5 million as the Long Island winner of the fourth round of NY Forward. The announcement is part of a broader state commitment totaling $200 million across New York’s ten economic development regions to support community revitalization efforts.
The initiative aims to boost local economies by transforming downtowns into vibrant neighborhoods, supporting affordable housing, small businesses, and public spaces. Governor Hochul said, “Downtowns and Main Streets are powerhouses for localities, and any investments toward them shape the business and recreational scene for residents and visitors — that’s why the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs are so impactful.”
To qualify for funding from these programs, communities must be certified under Governor Hochul’s Pro-Housing Communities Program. This certification provides exclusive access to up to $750 million in discretionary state funding. Since its launch, more than 410 communities have been certified statewide.
Valley Stream’s “International Downtown” project seeks to create a walkable, transit-oriented community with diverse businesses near major transportation hubs. Patchogue plans to use its award to extend revitalization beyond Main Street by strengthening waterfront connections and enhancing public spaces.
New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said, “Across Long Island, we’ve seen how the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs help communities build momentum and spark new possibilities.” Empire State Development President Hope Knight added that these investments “will support locally driven visions that strengthen small businesses, expand housing opportunities and enhance public spaces.” RuthAnne Visnauskas, Commissioner at New York State Homes and Community Renewal said, “Through the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward… this $14.5 million investment will unlock new opportunities to create housing, support small businesses and strengthen vibrant, transit-connected downtowns.”
The next step involves each village developing a Strategic Investment Plan led by a Local Planning Committee with municipal representatives and stakeholders. These plans will guide grant funds toward projects ready for implementation.
The Downtown Revitalization Initiative was created in 2016 to accelerate neighborhood redevelopment throughout New York State using a plan-then-act strategy focused on walkable downtowns as centers for activity. The NY Forward program began in 2022 targeting smaller or rural communities with tailored projects such as building renovations or improved public spaces.
