Exciting News for Keeseville: NY Forward Funding Brings New Opportunities to the Town of AuSable

Hello, Residents of the Town of AuSable!

Today, I’m thrilled to share some fantastic news that’s set to breathe new life into our community, particularly in Keeseville. Governor Kathy Hochul has just announced the latest winners of New York State’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) and NY Forward programs, and Keeseville has secured a $4.5 million grant through the NY Forward initiative. This funding is a game-changer for our small village, promising to enhance our downtown area and strengthen the fabric of our community.

A Big Win for the North Country

Governor Hochul’s announcement highlighted two North Country communities: Saranac Lake, which received $10 million through the DRI, and Keeseville, awarded $4.5 million via NY Forward. These programs are designed to revitalize downtown areas across New York, and Keeseville’s inclusion speaks volumes about the potential our village holds. For the Town of AuSable and Town of Chesterfield, this investment is something we can all take pride in—it’s a recognition of our community’s value and a chance to shape its future.

The NY Forward program, specifically tailored for smaller communities like ours, aims to accelerate revitalization efforts by funding projects that enhance walkability, boost local businesses, and improve public spaces. Governor Hochul emphasized that these investments are about building vibrant, resilient downtowns where people want to live, work, and visit. For Keeseville, this $4.5 million is a golden opportunity to do just that.

What This Means for Keeseville

As reported in the Sun Community News, Keeseville’s award will support a variety of projects aimed at transforming our downtown into a more inviting and functional space. While many projects have been proposed and the specifics are still being developed, the funding will go toward improving storefronts, upgrading infrastructure, creating and updating new community gathering spots, and even enhancing the scenic beauty along the AuSable River that defines our village. The possibilities are exciting, and they’re be shaped by input from us—residents, business owners, and community leaders.

A Boost for Local Pride and Prosperity

Keeseville has always been a place with heart—our historic charm, tight-knit community, and natural beauty set us apart. But like many small towns, we’ve faced challenges in keeping our downtown thriving. This NY Forward funding is a lifeline, offering resources to tackle those challenges head-on. As Governor Hochul noted, “Revitalizing New York’s downtowns creates ripple effects—more jobs, more visitors, and more opportunities for the next generation.” For us, that could mean new businesses opening their doors, more events drawing crowds, and a stronger sense of pride in calling Keeseville home.

The Sun Community News article also pointed out that this isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about economic vitality. With $4.5 million, we can invest in projects that make Keeseville a destination, not just a pass-through. Imagine a revitalized Main Street and Front Street with bustling shops, outdoor seating along the river, or a community space where we can gather for markets or festivals. These improvements could attract visitors from across the North Country and beyond, boosting our local economy while preserving what makes Keeseville special.

Get Involved and Stay Informed

This is just the beginning. This investment is the spark we’ve needed to get things trending in the right direction. Whether you’re a longtime resident, a business owner, or someone who loves Keeseville’s charm, your ideas matter. Keep an eye out for updates from the Town of AuSable and Town of Chesterfield for details on how you can participate.

As a resident of the Town of AuSable, I’m excited to see Keeseville take center stage in this revitalization effort. This $4.5 million NY Forward grant is more than just money—it’s a vote of confidence in our future. Let’s seize this moment to make Keeseville a place where our history meets new possibilities, and where every one of us can thrive.

Here’s to a brighter, bolder Keeseville—stay tuned for what’s next!

-Tim