City Of Poughkeepsie Seeks Community Input for $10 Million Downtown Revitalization Grant Application

The city has announced its intent to apply for $10 million in funding through the state’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) program, and it is seeking residents' input.

The DRI program, launched in 2016, aims to transform downtown areas into vibrant, mixed-use hubs where people want to live, work, and play.

The funds aim to drive business development, job creation, and housing diversity while reducing car dependency by promoting public transit and walkable spaces.

In partnership with the Common Council, the city will host a public meeting at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 3, at the Common Council Chambers to discuss the application and gather feedback.

For those unable to attend in person, the city has teamed up with the social media platform Jotto, where residents can share their thoughts on key issues like attracting new businesses, boosting public-private partnerships, and incentivizing private investments.

To help guide the discussion, residents are being asked to consider questions such as:

1. What steps can attract new businesses to the downtown area?
2. How can the city incentivize private investments?
3. What partnerships could spur downtown growth?

Responses can be submitted through this Jotto link or shared at Thursday’s meeting.

The city’s target area stretches from the train station to North Cherry Street, and its vision is to create a bustling downtown filled with shops, entertainment, and services.

The state favors proposals that are shovel-ready and demonstrate viability, so the city must present a solid plan supported by community feedback

. For more information or to submit additional ideas, contact city Planner Richard Distel at rdistel@cityofpoughkeepsie.com.

Now’s the time to make your voice heard—let’s shape a brighter future for our downtown!