Assembly Member Marianne Buttenschon said, "Thanks to this substantial investment of state funding, the future is looking even brighter for Utica and the Mohawk Valley. This DRI award will enable local leaders to reinvigorate the neighborhood surrounding Genesee Street and breathe new life into our communities. I want to thank Gov. Cuomo for investing in the Mohawk Valley, and I'll do everything I can to support this transformative project."

MVREDC Co-Chairs Lawrence T. Gilroy III, President of Gilroy, Kernan & Gilroy, Inc. and Dr. Marion Terenzio, SUNY Cobleskill President, said, "The Utica of today is one of great progress and promise and is becoming a vibrant and dynamic downtown for both residents and visitors alike. This Downtown Revitalization Initiative award will build upon the tremendous progress that has already been made in Utica and will spur additional economic growth and provide new opportunities for people to live work and play."

Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. said, "This award will provide a major injection into the ongoing explosion of growth taking place in downtown Utica. It is vital that the seat of Oneida County sets the tone for the entire area, and as the downtown landscape continues to transform with better transportation routes, more dynamic housing options, the return of retail and an elevation of arts, entertainment and recreation, Utica is re-establishing itself as a major player in upstate New York. I thank Governor Cuomo for his commitment to ensuring our vision is realized and look forward to the new opportunities that will accompany this funding."

City of Utica Mayor Robert Palmieri said, "The award of this $10 Million for Downtown Utica will continue the revitalization of this great city. Once again, I thank Governor Cuomo for his commitment to the Greater Utica area, and Downtown Utica, specifically. The Governor has been a great partner in the City's resurgence."

Utica will now begin the process of developing a Strategic Investment Plan to revitalize its downtown with up to $300,000 in planning funds from the $10 million DRI grant. 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 for downtown Utica will examine local assets and opportunities and identify economic development, transportation, housing, and community projects that align with the community's vision for downtown revitalization and that are poised for implementation. The downtown Utica Strategic Investment Plan will guide the investment of DRI grant funds in revitalization projects that will advance the community's vision for its downtown and that can leverage and expand upon the state's $10 million investment. Plans for the DRI's fourth round will be complete in 2020.

For more information on the Downtown Revitalization Initiative, go to: www.ny.gov/programs/downtown-revitalization-initiative.