Wellsville projects net $4.5 million from NY Forward. See what will be built in village

Major changes are coming to Wellsville's Main Street.

Gov. Kathy Hochul on Monday announced seven projects that have been awarded funding through the village's $4.5 million infusion from the NY Forward program.

They include transformations of several historic downtown buildings that now sit vacant, including the former Municipal Building, Daily Reporter building and the train depot.

“Thank you to Governor Hochul, the Department of State, and everyone involved in NYForward. Wellsville’s award and the projects selected will positively impact our community for decades to come!" Wellsville Mayor Randy Shayler said. "NYForward has become the catalyst for our economic growth, beyond its $4.5 million funding. We have just begun to see its full impact.”

NY Forward was established in 2022, offering another funding avenue to complement the $10 million Downtown Revitalization awards. The program targets downtown renewal projects in smaller, rural communities across the state.

Wellsville was announced as a NY Forward winner in early 2023 and solicited project proposals in the ensuing months.

Here are project descriptions and funding awards for the Wellsville NY Forward Projects.

Revise the former Daily Reporter building

Renovate a former printing facility into new commercial space on the 1st floor, and rental units on upper floor.

This project funding award is $762,000.

Develop new branding and signage for the Village of Wellsville

Develop a branding and wayfinding plan and new village website.

This project funding award is $90,000.

Establish the Wellsville NYF Small Project Fund

Establish a Small Project Fund to support applicants with building and business improvements.

This project funding award is $449,000.

Transform the Depot into an Event Center and Museum

Transform a former train depot into a new event space and railroad themed museum.

This project funding award is $1,228,000.

Event center, museum:What's next for Wellsville's Depot project after $500K state award

Experience entertainment at the Well

Develop a new dining, entertainment and event space within the former municipal building.

This project funding award is $640,000.

Improve Gateways to the Village of Wellsville

Enhance the pedestrian experience on State Street with safer and more appealing crossings, expanded sidewalks and the addition of decorative fencing and flag mounts on the Madison Street memorial bridge.

This project funding award is $551,000.

Expand space and offerings at the Creative Arts Center

Expand art studio offerings by renovating studio spaces, installing a freight elevator, and purchasing a new kiln; renovate space to create new apartments and workspaces for artists; and make upgrades to the building exterior and mechanical systems.

This project funding award is $780,000.

Wellsville aims for 'dynamic downtown'

The village's NY Forward plan aimed to "create a contemporary and revitalized downtown that enhances quality of life, promotes health and wellness and boosts tax revenue by supporting business growth.

"It will foster a vibrant, sustainable, and diverse economy that is active throughout all four-seasons, capitalizing on its ecotourism potential and leveraging its small-town charm, craft food and beverage businesses, unique arts and culture and access to picturesque vistas and outdoor activities."

“This is great news for the Village of Wellsville and all of Allegany County," Assemblymember Joseph Giglio said. "This $4.5 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward grant will enable the Village of Wellsville to pursue its vision as a destination for business, industry and tourism.

"I want to thank Gov. Hochul and New York State for recognizing the need to support communities in Western New York as they reinvent themselves and build a brighter future for our residents.”