BUFFALO, N.Y. — New York Secretary of State Robert Rodriguez kicked off a statewide tour promoting two community revitalization programs with a panel discussion at SUNY Buffalo State University.

What You Need To Know

  • N.Y. Secretary of State Robert Rodriguez kicked off a tour promoting community revitalization in Buffalo

  • It includes the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and New York Forward

  • DRI is bringing $100 million to 10 communities 

The Downtown Revitalization Initiative is in its seventh round and New York Forward is in its second round. This year, DRI is bringing $100 million to 10 communities selected by Regional Economic Development Councils. Rodriguez said $1 billion have been invested in 122 communities since the start of the two programs.

“Downtowns make the difference because if you are more embedded in your community and it has everything you need, you’re less likely to look for it somewhere else," said Rodriguez. "And if there’s a job locally in one of these good paying areas, you’re more likely to put down roots and stay."

These programs persist as New York grapples with a decline in 100,000 residents between July 2022 and July 2023, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

“We believe that by making these communities more of the vision of what people want in terms of where they live and work, that that will help in allowing us to retain talent," he said.

This tour brings together leaders of cities that have already taken advantage of the programs to engage in conversations with others who are considering applying for funding.

Some communities that have already participated include Jamestown, Oswego and Utica.