Long Island is getting a new round of downtown investment through New York’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs. Governor Kathy Hochul announced 11 projects for Hempstead and Farmingdale, with funding aimed at housing, workforce development, pedestrian safety, public spaces and small business improvements.
Where the money is going
Seven projects were announced for the Village of Hempstead, which received a $10 million DRI award. Four projects were announced for the Village of Farmingdale, which received a $4.5 million NY Forward award.
Hempstead projects include an innovation hub, mixed-use infill development, a small project grant fund, a pedestrian plaza at Helen Keller Way, transit-oriented development near the LIRR station, a workforce center and Main Street streetscape improvements.
Farmingdale projects include streetscape and signage upgrades, a new performing arts center, pedestrian safety improvements on Fulton Street and a small project fund for downtown property and business improvements.
Why CEOs and local businesses should care
Downtown grants can change the business math for a corridor. Streetscape work, pedestrian safety, cultural venues, workforce centers and upper-floor housing all influence foot traffic, hiring, leasing demand and the ability of local businesses to stay open after commuter hours.
The state is also tying these awards to its Pro-Housing Communities Program. That means municipalities that want access to some discretionary state funding are being encouraged to show they are actively expanding housing opportunity.
The BigNY bottom line
For Hempstead and Farmingdale, the awards are not just beautification money. They are an attempt to use downtown design, housing and small business support as one economic development strategy. The test will be whether the projects move quickly enough to create visible confidence for residents, landlords and entrepreneurs.
Source: Governor Kathy Hochul, May 15, 2026. Read the official release.