City of Rome Receives $10 Million From Downtown Revitalization Initiative

City of Utica and Village of Morris Receive $4.5 Million Each from NY Forward

Governor Kathy Hochul announced recently that the City of Rome will receive $10 million in funding as the Mohawk Valley winner of the ninth round of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI), and the City of Utica and Village of Morris will each receive $4.5 million as the Mohawk Valley winners of the fourth round of NY Forward.

For Round 9 of the DRI and Round 4 of the NY Forward Program, each of the State’s 10 economic development regions is being awarded $10 million from each program, for a total state commitment of $200 million in funding and investments to help communities boost their economies by transforming downtowns into vibrant neighborhoods. To date, total investments in the DRI and NY Forward have reached $1.4 billion.

“DRI and NY Forward unlock opportunities for our municipalities to engage their communities — this funding is what drives creativity and brings New Yorkers together,” Governor Hochul said. “Not only will Main Streets and businesses thrive in the Mohawk Valley, the pro-housing incentive will also pave the way for housing growth in the region. I am a firm believer that New York needs more housing, and I will stop at nothing to provide people with the chance to raise their families in the best state.”

To receive funding from either the DRI or NY Forward program, localities must be certified under Governor Hochul’s Pro-Housing Communities Program, which recognizes and rewards municipalities actively working to unlock their housing potential and encourages others to follow suit. After becoming certified, localities have exclusive access to up to $750 million in discretionary State funding, including DRI and NY Forward. Since the launch of the Pro-Housing Communities Program, funds awarded to Pro-Housing Communities throughout the state have supported up to 20,000 more homes. To date, more than 400 communities across New York have been certified.

Many of the projects funded through the DRI and NY Forward support Governor Hochul’s affordability agenda. The DRI has invested in the creation of more than 5,000 units of housing – more than 2,000 of which (40 percent) are affordable or workforce housing. The programs committed $9 million to 12 projects that provide affordable or free childcare and childcare worker training. The DRI and NY Forward have also invested in the creation of public parks, public art – such as murals and sculptures – and art, music and cultural venues that provide free outdoor recreation and entertainment opportunities.

$10 Million Downtown Revitalization Initiative Award for Rome

Situated along the banks of the Mohawk River and the historic Erie Canal (where construction on the landmark project began in 1817), the City of Rome’s DRI plan links waterways, neighborhoods and industry to shape a new vision for downtown living. Building on progress made in the city’s downtown corridor through a Round 2 DRI award, the boundaries of the new DRI area focus on the City’s Brownfield Opportunity Area, where the legacy of the former General Cable Complex and East Rome neighborhoods converge along East Dominick Street. Once a vital link in a historic trade route, Dominick Street grew into a quintessential main street, and today it stands ready to reconnect neighborhoods, businesses and waterfront destinations. Framed by two miles of canal and riverfront, the district is reemerging as a place where recreation, heritage and daily life converge in a distinctly memorable setting. Along Bellamy Harbor and the Mohawk River, public spaces, trails and gathering places already draw residents and visitors for everything from daily life to events.

With strategic investments, including the recently announced Chobani dairy processing plant, and careful planning, long-underutilized sites are being prepared for new housing, shops and experiences that will bring energy back to the waterfront. Anchored by growing industry and rising demand, the City is poised to welcome a new generation of residents and businesses seeking both opportunity and quality of life. Rome continues to transform its historic waterfront into a dynamic, connected neighborhood that reflects both its deep past and its bright future.

$4.5 Million NY Forward Award for Utica

Nestled in the Mohawk Valley along a historic corridor that has long connected communities and commerce across New York State, the City of Utica is defined by a collection of distinct neighborhoods that together shape its character and cultural identity. Within the City, the beloved Uptown District stands out as one of the City’s most charming and promising places. Building on the momentum of its nearly completed DRI, Utica aims to advance a clear vision to strengthen Uptown’s historic character, walkability and culture as a multi-generational “all-day” neighborhood. This pedestrian-friendly area is poised for a revival, adding to the restaurants, cafes and locally owned shops already established in the district, while vacant buildings are refurbished to enhance charm and curb appeal.

Rooted in extensive community engagement, the City’s vision reflects a neighborhood that residents hold close to their hearts, where they grew up and made invaluable memories filled with uniquely Utica experiences. Cultural anchors like the Uptown Theatre and Murnane Field, along with other local businesses, create a lively rhythm of arts, recreation, food and gathering spaces. With a compact, highly trafficked footprint and a thoughtful strategy for investment, Uptown is ready to build on its momentum, shaping a neighborhood where history, culture and community come together to define a promising future.

$4.5 Million NY Forward Award for Morris

In the heart of the Butternut Valley is the Village of Morris, framed by forests, waterways and a historic crossroads that have long connected surrounding communities. At its center, a compact, one-mile-long walkable downtown anchors a village where daily life unfolds along Main and Broad streets. With roots dating back to the late 1700s, Morris has evolved from a mill community to an agricultural market town, and now stands ready to grow into an ecotourism and arts destination. Arts and culture are increasingly central to Morris’ identity, with new studios, galleries, and creative spaces building on a strong tradition of craftsmanship and storytelling.

At the same time, thoughtful investments in sidewalks, streetscapes and housing are enhancing accessibility, safety and vibrancy. Guided by a resilient spirit and a clear vision, Morris is poised for its next chapter. By strengthening connections within its downtown and building on its natural and cultural assets, the village is creating a place that honors its past while inviting new energy, investment, and opportunity.

The City of Rome joins Schoharie, Herkimer, Clinton, Kirkland, Gloversville, Utica, Amsterdam and Oneonta as winners of the DRI for the Mohawk Valley, while the City of Utica and Village of Morris join Canajoharie, Waterville, Boonville, Richfield, Cooperstown, Dolgeville and Sharon Springs as NY Forward winners for the Mohawk Valley.