The Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI), is moving forward in Norwich with a number of community projects, including improvements at Park Place Sports Bar and Grill. (Submitted photo)

by Sophia Root,

Commerce Chenango

NORWICH - The City of Norwich continues to make steady progress on its Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI), with several key projects moving forward and others nearing completion. Commerce Chenango presented an update on the project's status.

“The progress we have made so far is excellent,” said Commerce Chenango President and CEO Sal Testani said. “New York State has been extremely supportive of this process. The DRI is known statewide as being difficult to execute.”

The proposed Boutique Hotel project is advancing, currently in the next stages of approval with both the City and the Chenango County Industrial Development Agency (CCIDA). The Unguentine Building is undergoing consultations for a potential 30-apartment development. The project remains in the consultation phase, with the development team meeting with various consultants and firms to solidify next steps.

Two significant facade projects have been completed, with Park Place Sports Bar and Grill receiving a new paint job, logo signage and awning. Additionally, Cwynar and Company’s building received a facelift.

Across the street, the Manley House has received a new roof and stairs, with painting scheduled for next spring.

As for potential projects: the Heritage Building project is in a holding pattern, with the team lining up next steps and anticipating work to begin in 2025. Also, the Chenango Arts Council project is currently in the preliminary stages, with an environmental review and initial designs underway.

Funded through a collaborative effort by the city, the Business Improvement District, and a local foundation, Placemaking Consultations are in effect. These consultations will build upon the DRI's foundational work.

Another facet of Norwich’s DRI was the Parks Project. The Friends of the Parks group is now leading the task, with the city serving as the contracted agency and primary coordinator.

An update on the projects planned for Lackawanna Avenue and the Colonia Theatre: the sponsors of these projects have opted to fund their own improvements independently, declining DRI funding.

All currently allocated funding is fully committed, with no additional funds available at this time.

Testani said “We are committed to investing the entire grant into the community by continuing this progress.”

The City of Norwich and Commerce Chenango remain committed to transforming and revitalizing the downtown area, balancing new developments with preservation of historic character. For more detailed information or specific inquiries, please contact Erik Scrivener, City of Norwich Community Development Director at (607) 334-1229.