Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that Yonkers will receive $10 million in funding as the Mid-Hudson winner of the ninth round of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI),
“The winners of the Mid-Hudson DRI and NY Forward awards are incredible communities that have demonstrated their commitment to expanding housing and job opportunities,” Governor Hochul said. “Yonkers, Ellenville and Rockland are all unique, vibrant hubs of economic activity and culture. Their proximity to New York City as well as many natural wonders gives residents and visitors a taste of all our great state has to offer.”
$10 Million Downtown Revitalization Initiative Award for Yonkers
Situated along the east bank of the Hudson River just north of New York City, Yonkers is defined by innovation and reinvention, from its early days as an industrial powerhouse to its modern resurgence as a center of creativity and economic opportunity. Once separated from the river by industrial sites and highway barriers, the City began reclaiming its waterfront with the daylighting of the Saw Mill River, which restored natural habitats and created new public green spaces in the heart of downtown. Today, cranes rise where factories once stood, as housing, businesses and cultural attractions reshape the skyline. Anchors such as the Great Point Studios and its partnership with Lionsgate have helped establish Yonkers as a growing hub for film and media production, earning the City the nickname “Hollywood on the Hudson.” New mixed-use developments and waterfront public spaces are attracting residents, visitors and creative industries while expanding housing opportunities and supporting local businesses. Through its DRI vision, the City will further reconnect downtown neighborhoods with the Hudson River through expanded public access, walkable streetscapes and new cultural and recreational destinations. By building upon decades of environmental restoration, infrastructure investment and community collaboration, Yonkers is completing its evolution into a dynamic, inclusive river city where economic opportunity and quality of life continue to grow.
U.S. Representative George Latimer said, “This funding marks a significant step toward the revitalization of the City of Yonkers waterfront, ensuring that it remains dynamic and accessible. Investing in this community will create new opportunities for small businesses, grow the housing stock, and strengthen local industries. I am grateful for Governor Hochul’s continued support as we work together to deliver for our growing communities.”
Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins said, “I am thrilled that Yonkers has been awarded $10 million through the Downtown Revitalization Initiative. These investments demonstrate New York’s continued commitment to supporting downtowns as engines of economic growth, housing, and opportunity. I am proud that the State Legislature prioritizes programs like the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward, and I thank Governor Hochul for her partnership in delivering these critical investments to Yonkers and municipalities across our great state. I congratulate the Village of Ellenville and the Hamlet of Livingston Manor on receiving NY Forward awards that will help strengthen their communities as well.”
State Senator Shelley Mayer said, “I am very pleased that the City of Yonkers has been selected to receive $10 million through the ninth round of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative. This investment will help Yonkers continue the important work of strengthening its downtown, supporting local businesses and creating vibrant public spaces while building a stronger connection with the waterfront along the Hudson River. As a proud Yonkers resident, I am confident this DRI funding will build upon the smart development of downtown Yonkers and will support Yonkers’ dominant role in the downstate economy.”
Assemblymember J. Gary Pretlow said, “As a member of the New York State Assembly representing the City of Yonkers, it is an honor to receive this funding from the state and Governor. We are grateful and appreciative of the Governor’s decision to grant Yonkers with this year’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative funding. Thank you, Governor Hochul, for your continuous dedication in helping us create jobs, housing and economic growth for generations to come. Our beautiful city and communities will forever be changed for the better.”
Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins said, “Congratulations to the City of Yonkers, and Mayor Mike Spano, on being selected to receive $10 million through New York State’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative. This investment is a tremendous opportunity to build on Yonkers’ incredible momentum by creating new housing, supporting local businesses, improving public spaces and making the downtown an even more vibrant place to live, work and visit. We are grateful to Governor Hochul for continuing to invest in communities across Westchester County and for recognizing that strong downtowns are essential to a strong regional economy. Westchester County looks forward to continuing our partnership with the City of Yonkers and New York State to ensure this investment delivers lasting benefits.”
Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano said, “Yonkers’ waterfront has long been one of our city’s greatest assets, and this transformational $10 million investment from New York State will help us unlock its full potential. An investment in Yonkers translates to a greater investment in the Hudson Valley. Thank you to Governor Kathy Hochul and our partners in State government for recognizing the importance of activating our waterfront that will create new opportunities for economic growth, enhance public spaces, improve safety and strengthen the connection between our residents and the Hudson River.”
Yonkers will now begin the process of developing a Strategic Investment Plan to revitalize their downtown. A Local Planning Committee made up of municipal representatives, community leaders and other stakeholders will lead the effort, supported by a team of private sector experts and state planners. The Strategic Investment Plan will guide the investment of DRI and NY Forward grant funds in revitalization projects that are poised for implementation and will advance the community’s vision for their downtown so that it can leverage and expand upon the state’s investment.
