Delaware Avenue NY Forward

In September 2022, the Town of Bethlehem submitted an application for a NY Forward grant for the Delaware Avenue corridor—from the Bethlehem/Albany border to the Four Corners—which if successful could provide up to $4.5M to support a wide range of capital improvements in the corridor, including redevelopment of existing buildings, façade improvements, public space upgrades, and more, as well as branding and marketing investments for the corridor.  The program, launched in late July 2022 by the NYS Department of State, aims to “invigorate and enliven downtowns in New York’s smaller and rural communities” such as villages and hamlets.  This grant opportunity is completely independent from past grants and planning efforts in this corridor, and it presents a unique opportunity to support businesses, residents, and community needs.

Delaware Avenue NY Forward Application

Focus Area – Delaware Avenue Corridor

NY Forward Grant Letter of Interest Map Detail small


Advisory Committee Members

As part of the application process, communities are required to assemble an advisory committee to help guide application development and project implementation, if awarded a grant. Members include:

  • Gregg Biche, Quality PM, Inc.
  • Terri Egan, Bethlehem Chamber of Commerce
  • Judi Gabler, Gabler Realty
  • Jim Giacone, My Place and Company
  • Dave Gordon, Resident
  • Mark Kelly, Resident
  • Debbie Nolan Murray, Delaware Plaza
  • Pete Tryon, Blue House Companies, LLC

Presentation Slides at September 13, 2022 Public Meeting

Discussion Summary from September 13, 2022 Public Meeting

Key Dates

  • August 10, 2022 – Letter of intent to apply submitted by Town
  • September 8, 2022 – Advisory committee meeting 
  • September 13, 2022 – Public meeting
  • September 23, 2022 – Application due
  • Fall 2022 – NY Forward awards announced on a rolling basis
  • January 2023 – Project kick-off (if awarded)

Contact

Please contact John Taylor, Senior Economic Developer, at 518-439-4955 x1189 or jtaylor@townofbethlehem.org with any questions or comments.