New York State's Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) is a cornerstone of the State's economic development program. The DRI transforms downtown neighborhoods into vibrant centers that offer a high quality of life and are magnets for redevelopment, business, job creation, and economic and housing diversity. These compact, walkable downtowns are a key ingredient to helping New York State rebuild its economy from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as to achieving the State’s bold climate goals by promoting the use of public transit and reducing dependence on private vehicles.
The DRI is led by the Department of State, in close partnership with Empire State Development, NYS Homes and Community Renewal and New York State Energy Research and Development Authority.
Creating Vibrant Downtowns DRI Round 8
Governor Hochul announced the eighth round of the DRI along with the third round of NY Forward, a program targeted at revitalizing smaller and rural communities. This year, DRI will invest $100 million in 10 new communities to be selected by the REDCs, bringing the total amount of funding allocated for all rounds of DRI and NYF to $1.2 billion.
Participant Resources
Plan-Then-Act Strategy How the DRI Works
Creating Vibrant Downtowns DRI Round 7
In 2023, Governor Hochul announced the seventh round of the DRI along with the second round of NY Forward. For round seven of the DRI, the State invested $100 million in 10 new communities selected by the REDCs, bringing the total DRI state commitment to $800 million.
Improving the vitality of urban centers across New York Past Winners
Rounds 1 - 3
Rounds 4 -5
Partners
DOS Community Infrastructure
Learn more about the Dept. of State’s Community Infrastructure Program and its role in increasing resilience and sustainable growth in NY’s communities.
Regional Economic Development Councils
The Regional Councils were established to transform the State’s approach to economic development to a community-based and performance-driven model.
HCR Office of Community Renewal
Learn more about the Office of Community Renewal and its role in strengthening the economic vitality of neighborhoods and downtowns.
Empire State Development
The Empire State Development promotes a vigorous and growing state economy, encourages business investment and job creation, and supports diverse, prosperous local economies across New York State.
New York State Energy Research and Development Authority
NYSERDA offers objective information and analysis, innovative programs, technical expertise, and support to help New Yorkers increase energy efficiency, save money, use renewable energy, and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.