Nyack has been awarded $4.5 million in state funding through the NY Forward Program, Governor Kathy Hochul announced today. The grant is part of a statewide initiative aimed at revitalizing downtown areas and supporting economic growth in communities across New York.
The funding will be used to enhance business development, expand affordable housing, improve public spaces, and provide better access to Nyack’s scenic waterfront. As a historic village with a diverse and vibrant downtown, Nyack has long been a cultural and economic hub in Rockland County. Officials say this investment will help strengthen its appeal as a place to live, work, and visit.
“Nyack has the energy and diversity of a small city and the intimacy of a small town,” Governor Hochul said. “This investment will ensure that Nyack remains a thriving and accessible community for years to come.”
The revitalization plan will focus on several key areas. Business expansion will be a priority, with the goal of attracting new local businesses and strengthening existing ones. Investments in affordable housing will help maintain Nyack’s economic diversity and support its working-class population. Improvements to public spaces and streetscapes will create a more walkable and welcoming downtown, while upgrades to waterfront access will ensure that residents and visitors can enjoy the village’s prime location along the Hudson River.
Nyack Mayor Joseph Rand welcomed the funding, calling it a historic moment for the village. “This is an extraordinary day in Nyack’s 143-year history,” Rand said. “We are deeply grateful to Governor Hochul and her administration for their commitment to revitalizing communities like ours. This $4.5 million grant will make Nyack an even better place to live, work, and visit.”
Assemblymember Patrick Carroll also praised the investment, noting that Nyack’s downtown is a key driver of economic activity in Rockland County. “Downtown Nyack is a hub of restaurants, shops, and small businesses that serve both locals and visitors. This funding will provide a much-needed boost to our community as it continues to grow and thrive,” he said.
The next step in the revitalization process will be the creation of a Strategic Investment Plan to guide the use of the grant funds. A Local Planning Committee, made up of municipal leaders, business owners, and community stakeholders, will oversee the planning process with support from state officials and private sector experts.
The NY Forward Program was launched to build on the success of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI), which has invested millions in revitalizing communities across New York. To qualify for funding, municipalities must be certified under Governor Hochul’s Pro-Housing Communities Program, which encourages local governments to promote smart housing growth.
With this funding, Nyack is set to further enhance its unique charm while fostering economic growth and community development. Residents can expect to see improvements in infrastructure, expanded business opportunities, and a stronger, more vibrant downtown in the years to come.