Rochester Downtown Development Corporation fundraising for revitalization efforts

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) — Months after the Rochester Downtown Development Corporation ended its campaign to create a “business improvement district” in downtown Rochester, the development group is working to raise funds for its next phase of downtown revitalization.

RDDC ended its BID campaign in March after losing the votes needed in Rochester City Council. When News 8 spoke to the non-profit after the campaign ended, it said the group is still committed to the work.

Some of this revitalization effort has been ongoing, primarily through the Downtown Definitely series of events.

This expanded effort for revitalization follows the feedback the group says they received during the bid process. RDDC says its data shows people want more events, the city beautified with more amenities and more small business support.

Galin Brooks, president of RDDC, said that small business support comes from more marketing support from RDDC, as well as networking and collaboration efforts.

On funding, a BID relies on collective buying power property owners in a geographic area, to pay for services, events, and more.

“So we see some balance of the budget coming from larger-scale institutions, that would really support the work out of the gate,” said Brooks. “Then about a third of the budget comes from businesses, downtown stakeholders, RDDC members, individuals, property owners, a mix.”

High Falls, a neighborhood in Rochester, the Village of Webster, Canandaigua, and more have BIDs.

“A vibrant downtown is essential to creating a welcoming, safe, and inclusive environment for the individuals who visit the Urban League of Rochester and our dedicated staff,” said Dr. Seanelle Hawkins of the Urban League of Rochester in a statement provided by RDDC. “The health of our downtown directly impacts the neighborhood where we operate, and a revitalized downtown enhances the overall well-being of the city. It fosters economic growth by supporting small businesses, creating employment opportunities, and improving the quality of life for all who live, work, and engage with this community.”

RDDC also plans to ask Monroe County’s development agency for funding. Brooks said that funding would come out of COMIDA’s general operating fund. RDDC is making the pitch at next week’s COMIDA meeting.

Brooks said the rollout of the expanded services would begin in early 2025.

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