Village of Cayuga Mayor Don Wilson is optimistic that the projects receiving Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) funding in the village will allow Cayuga to grow while maintaining its small-town charm.
Speaking on FLX Morning, Mayor Wilson said the three projects receiving funding will allow the village to attract more residents, businesses, and economic opportunities while maintaining the historic feel of the village and its tight-knit community.
“We’re trying to maintain some of the old and bring in some of the new and still keep that small-town America feel.”
In 2023, the Villages of Cayuga, Auroa, and Union Springs jointly applied for DRI funding. In February 2024, the villages were announced as winners of the award.
Following the announcement, work began on creating a slate of eligible projects from each village to send to New York State for final approval. The state announced which projects would receive funding in May.
Three major projects in Cayuga were chosen to receive funding:
$2.5 million has been awarded to redevelop Beacon Bay Marina into new lodging units, new docks, and a gathering space for guests. An additional $1 million was awarded to the village through the Restore NY initiative to assist in this endeavor.
$446,000 has been allocated to create two-bedroom loft-style apartments at the village’s former rec center at 6200 Center Street.
Just over $2 million will be used to renovate McIntosh Park. Improvements include drainage improvements, a paved entrance road and parking, the creation of basketball and pickleball courts, relocating the existing tee-ball field, new benches, a new ADA-compliant playground, and a 7,000 sq ft pavilion. Mayor Wilson added that the upgrades to the park will allow it to be used for more community events like live music and farmers’ markets.
“McIntosh Park has been a cornerstone of the village for my whole life… that park has always been a huge part of the village.”
Mayor Wilson said the village is currently working with the state on planning for the projects. He anticipates shovels will be in the ground by fall 2026 or spring 2027.
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