The Village of Cazenovia will receive $10 million from New York’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative to support redevelopment in its downtown area, part of the state’s ninth round of funding for local economic development projects.
Two additional Central New York villages — Marcellus and Mexico — will receive $4.5 million each through the NY Forward program, which targets smaller communities. The state is committing a total of $200 million in this round, with $10 million from each program for each of New York’s 10 economic development regions.
Cazenovia plans to use the funding to strengthen its downtown following the closure of Cazenovia College in 2023. Projects are expected to focus on enhancing economic activity, community spaces, and housing opportunities. Marcellus will direct its funds toward improving walkability, expanding green space, and supporting local businesses, while Mexico will focus on revitalizing its historic downtown along the Little Salmon River.
To receive the funding, communities must be certified under the state’s Pro-Housing Communities Program, which rewards municipalities committed to expanding housing options. Cazenovia, Marcellus, and Mexico will now develop Strategic Investment Plans to guide the use of their grant money on redevelopment projects.
Since launching the programs, the state has invested approximately $1.4 billion in downtown revitalization efforts across New York, supporting projects including housing, public parks, cultural venues, and small-business growth.
