NEW BERLIN – Commerce Chenango’s economic development branch, Development Chenango, announced in late December funding for the establishment of a $250,000 Main Street Grant Program for the Village of New Berlin. Awarded by the New York State Office of Community Renewal, the funding will also leverage an additional $84,000 for the renovation of downtown buildings, which will see improvements at six commercial spaces and residences, as well as the village’s streetscape.

Last week, a village meeting was held to select members as part of a review and oversight committee for the grant’s implementation from the local community, business owners and Development Chenango.

Village of New Berlin Mayor Terry Potter, who will serve on the committee joined by a member of the village’s board of trustees, said, “We already have a pretty well rounded committee, including people with architectural and engineering experience.”

The grant will be utilized by business owners in downtown New Berlin to improve their businesses, subsequently improving the curbside quality of the village. The improvements could vary from upgrading facades to renovations of interior spaces. Many New Berlin businesses already have projects in the works and will be eligible to receive a portion of the grant monies to help them complete their work, according to village officials.