Lancaster Receives $4.5 Million from NY Forward for Downtown Revitalization

A shot of local businesses at 5319 Transit Road on the border of Lancaster and Depew, New York.Photo byPhoto by J.M. Lesinski

New York State Governor Kathy Hochul recently celebrated the village of Lancaster’s award of $4.5 million from Round 1 of the NY Forward economic development program, for eight projects aimed at revitalizing the local economy.

“New York’s downtowns are the heartbeat of our state, and the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs help us fulfill our commitment to uplifting communities in every region,” Hochul remarked of the funding. “These projects in Western New York will help revitalize our beautiful downtowns and create more opportunities for New Yorkers to build thriving communities for future generations.”

The NY Forward program aims to revitalize the downtown area of a village, city, etc. by supporting equitable recovery and creating more job opportunities, as well as housing, across Western New York. 

“The NY Forward process has helped focus the needs and desires of our community,” stated Village of Lancaster Mayor Lynne Ruda of the funding. “The funding that has been allocated to the projects will create transformative change in the Village of Lancaster for generations to come. Thank you to everyone who devoted so much time to this process and to Governor Hochul for recognizing the importance and allocating funding to preserving and enhancing historic villages like ours.”

Of the projects, Lancaster aims to create a more sustainable downtown while still retaining its historic character and superb walkability. 

“From new stores and restaurants to improved parks and streetscapes, the Village of Lancaster has experienced a renaissance over the past few years due in large part to significant investments by New York State,” noted New York State Assemblymember Monica Wallace of the funding. “Our historic village is fast becoming a destination for all Western New Yorkers to live, shop, dine, and enjoy great theater. I thank Governor Hochul for again providing critical resources that will ensure the continued growth and revitalization of the Village of Lancaster for generations to come.”

The six projects include the following: $881,000 to expand the Lancaster Village Center with a new building at 20 West Main, $300,000 to create a Small Project Fund to support critical building/business enhancements, $900,000 for the construction of new senior housing along Plum Bottom Creek at Brookfield Place, $206,000 for a new Pocket Park at the Municipal Building, $1,156,000 to elevate the Opera House and Town Hall into a state-of-the-art iconic building, and $1,057,000 to renovate the Boys & Girls Club and create a new Teen Center.

“The $19 million awarded today will help Dunkirk, Lancaster, and Wellsville better realize their full potential by allowing these communities to invest in new homes, creative attractions, and economic opportunities in their downtown neighborhoods,” Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas commented of the funding. “Importantly, these 22 projects were selected with significant local input to best ensure resources will benefit current and future residents for years to come. Thank you to Governor Hochul for her focus on uplifting Western New York's municipalities with investments that enhance communities and improve lives.”