“The City of Lockport is planning a slate of downtown revitalization projects, from a new marina to utilizing vacant housing, thanks to an award of $10 million in state funds,” reports Tim Fenster for the Lockport Union-Sun & Journal.

“Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul announced the award, from the state’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative, Wednesday at Cornerstone CFCU Arena, saying the funding can improve development and quality of life throughout the city.”

“‘That kind of money in a downtown area can make a transformative difference,’ Hochul said.”

“In applying for the award, the city submitted a list of dozens of potential projects toward which it would utilize the funding, from developing vacant or underutilized buildings to improving walkability and bikeability on city streets to bringing more housing downtown.”

“…Acting Mayor David Wohleben said that to reach its full potential, the city must address underutilized and vacant buildings, limited street accessibility and other issues.”

“‘We will breathe new life into vacant and underachieving buildings, we will improve walkability and bikeability, and better connect neighborhoods to our downtown, the Erie Canal and the Erie Canalway Trail,’ Wohleben said. ‘We will undertake projects that will raise the quality of life of residents throughout the entire community.'”

“…This year marks the third round of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative, which awards $10 million to one community in each of 10 economic development regions throughout the state.”

“Past awards for the Western New York region went to Jamestown in 2016 and Olean in 2017.”

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