Ithaca Downtown Revitalization Initiative Public Meeting for Project Applications

The City of Ithaca is applying for Round 9 of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative, seeking $10 million in funding to support projects in downtown Ithaca. A public meeting on July 29th will present eligible projects and gather input from the public to finalize the application. A survey will also be available for comments. Public input is crucial to develop a competitive application.

The City of Ithaca is actively pursuing Round 9 of the New York State Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) to secure $10 million in funding for various projects aimed at revitalizing downtown Ithaca. The initiative, which has been instrumental in transforming urban areas across the state, offers a significant opportunity for Ithaca to enhance its downtown landscape and economic vitality.

The city has released a call for projects, inviting local businesses and residents to submit proposals that align with the DRI's goals. The public meeting scheduled for July 29th will serve as a crucial platform to present these eligible projects and gather community input. This public engagement is essential to developing a competitive application that reflects the needs and aspirations of the Ithaca community [1].

The DRI funds are intended to support catalytic projects that will have a transformative impact on downtown Ithaca. These projects could include infrastructure improvements, community development initiatives, and economic growth strategies. The public is encouraged to provide feedback through a survey, which will help shape the final application [1].

In addition to the public meeting and survey, the City of Ithaca is actively seeking input from local business owners and managers. A survey has been launched to collect general input on the business environment and economic development strategies, further emphasizing the importance of community involvement in the revitalization process [2].

The City of Ithaca's efforts to secure DRI funding are part of a broader strategy to enhance the city's downtown area. Recent initiatives include bicycle calming measures in Home Dairy Alley, storm sewer repairs, and roadside vegetation mowing, all aimed at improving safety and aesthetics [3].

The public's participation in the DRI application process is vital. By providing input and feedback, residents and businesses can help ensure that the proposed projects are well-aligned with the community's needs and vision for a revitalized downtown Ithaca. The success of the application will depend on the collective efforts of the community in shaping a competitive and compelling narrative for the DRI funding.

References:
[1] https://www.cityofithaca.org/CivicAlerts.aspx?CID=1
[2] https://www.cityofithaca.org/calendar.aspx