PROCESS

The NYF program employs an innovative “plan-then-act” strategy that couples strategic planning with immediate implementation. Communities are paired with a consultant team and a project manager from the DOS who guide them through a targeted, community-based planning process focused on the development of a Strategic Investment Plan (SIP).

Planning Process

The SIP builds upon the community's NYF application, including the preliminary community vision for revitalization and the proposed project list. The planning process will refine the vision, develop actionable goals and strategies, and identify a suite of complementary and transformative projects to help the community achieve its vision for downtown revitalization. A Local Planning Committee (LPC) comprised of local and regional leaders, stakeholders, and community representatives intended to represent diverse interests is convened to oversee the planning process and the development of the SIP. The process will include:

  • Develop a downtown profile that concisely assesses the existing conditions of the NYF area and community, while identifying key challenges and opportunities to be addressed

  • Review and refine the community’s vision statement which will guide project selection

  • Establish goals and strategies to achieve the community’s vision statement

  • Identify, develop, and evaluate projects that could advance the community’s vision, goals, and strategies for revitalization.

  • Undertake broad public engagement throughout the entire planning process to solicit input, shape the community’s vision for downtown, identify projects, and build support for plan implementation.

STATE GOALS

The State’s programmatic goals and the community’s local goals will guide the entire NYF planning process, inform project development and selection, and be clearly reflected in each community’s Strategic Investment Plan. The State’s goals include:

Create an active downtown with a strong sense of place.

Attract new businesses that create a robust mix of shopping, entertainment, and service options.

Enhance public spaces for arts and cultural events that serve the existing members of the community but also draw visitors from around the region.

Build a diverse population, with residents and workers supported by complementary varied housing and employment opportunities.

Grow the local property tax base.

Provide amenities that support and enhance downtown living and quality of life.

Reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support investments that are more resilient to future climate change impacts.

Planning Timeline

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Questions or Feedback?

Do you have a question about the NY Forward process? We’d love to hear from you!