NORWICH – The City of Norwich Common Council has taken a step forward in a proposed project that would help transform the Heritage Block in downtown Norwich.

During the August meeting of the Common Council, city officials adopted a resolution that makes the city the lead agency for the environmental review of the Heritage Block project and act in accordance with the New York State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA).

The Heritage Block project - a redevelopment initiative to assist private developers in the restoration of dilapidated properties located at 42 and 44-46 North Broad St., and four buildings on Lackawanna Avenue - includes design and renovation of the parking lot shared by said properties as well as additional properties at 8-12 Mechanic St. and 38-40 N. Broad St.

City officials are currently working with property owners within the Heritage Block area and plan to apply for funding through the Consolidated Funding Application process and the Southern Tier Region Community Revitalization Program to assist in the project. – Shawn Magrath