Capital Region communities receive state funding for revitalization projects

SCHENECTADY, N.Y. (NEWS10) -- The next round of funding and development projects was unveiled Monday as leaders from the New York State Department met with local officials. They made a stop at Proctors Theatre in Schenectady to promote their two major economic development programs.

Thirty projects were selected in four Capital Region communities. Cohoes was awarded $10 million through the Downtown Revitalization Program. The city's funding will go toward renovating historic buildings, supporting small businesses, and street scape improvement projects in the downtown area.

"We know the opportunity, and we know the heart of New Yorkers," NYS Deputy Secretary of State Kisha Santiago said. "We all want to win. We all want to succeed, and we also want people to stay here and know that there is a great future here. And with the state working alongside local government, it's them telling us what they want to see. And it's us figuring out all the resources to help them."

Monday's event also featured a panel of local officials who were able to share their advice and insight into the state initiatives to help boost downtown development.

The other initiative, New York Forward, supports smaller downtown areas. Kinderhook, Coxsackie, and Cambridge were the communities chosen.

"And so the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and New York Forward programs really are the cure for failed urban renewal," Deputy Sec. Santiago said. "Because at its core, are its people, its community, and it's a real partnership with the state."

Other projects also include housing development, creating accessible public spaces, and workforce development opportunities. The communities are chosen through a competitive review process with the aim of creating a major economic impact for the city and the wider region.