The $10 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) grant project was awarded to enhance business and housing opportunities, improve streetscape, and expand arts and cultural amenities. The plan also hopes to jumpstart the city with job creation and stimulate the local economy. The final slate was approved by New York State (NYS) last year. (Evening Sun file photo by Cindy Tiley)

NORWICH — The $10 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) grant project was awarded to enhance business and housing opportunities, improve streetscape, and expand arts and cultural amenities.

The plan also hopes to jumpstart the city with job creation and stimulate the local economy. The final slate was approved by New York State (NYS) last year.

Funding is to be provided on a reimbursement basis, meaning sponsors will fund the projects up front and once complete, a second approval from the state will occur.

If all guidelines are met, the reimbursement will be granted from the pool of DRI funds.

American Avenue Project

The City of Norwich received DRI funds in the amount of $470,000 to create a safe and welcoming space with better lighting, more amenities, and improved pedestrian access.

City of Norwich Community Development Director Erik Scrivener said, “For what we want to do down there, it’s going to take significantly more investment. We know we need a next step and have raised enough money with The City of Norwich B.I.D., Commerce Chenango, DRI recipients and local foundations in putting a plan together.”

He said they’re looking at using American Avenue and other projects to tie into the Hotel, Arts Council, the Unguentine Building, etc. and create a sense of place and a destination in Norwich. It’s an economical development plan with market studies to provide their next steps in investment in the community.