Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced four Western New York communities have been selected to receive Smart Growth Community Funds. The Village of Alfred, Village of Fredonia, Village of Lancaster and City of Tonawanda will each be awarded a portion of $10 million in funding from the Buffalo Billion II initiative to support projects that utilize existing infrastructure to support placemaking, walkable communities and sustainable development.
“Western New York is thriving as it continues to embrace downtown redevelopment that drives local economies across the region,” Governor Cuomo said. “Through the Smart Growth Community Fund, we are encouraging the growth of new businesses, housing, and greenspace that will help attract young workers and further fuel the area’s transformation.”
Village of Alfred
Recommended Award: Up to $2.5 million; Projects include a mixture of historic restoration, business and innovation investments, placemaking, and smart growth, and could include:
· A New York Main Streets program that would target terra cotta roof preservation, including incentives for incorporating additional terra cotta elements into building upgrades and improving ADA accessibility for Main Street buildings;
· Providing funding that would create an “Advanced Ceramic Manufacturing Center” in the Village; and
· Pedestrian improvements along Route 244 that would improve the safety and aesthetic appearance of the main corridor that connects with Town and Village.
