Join the Conversation: Shape Keeseville’s Future at the NY Forward Open House!

Hello, neighbors in the Town of Ausable!

If you’ve ever strolled through downtown Keeseville and dreamed of a more vibrant, welcoming heart to our community—think bustling sidewalks, fresh facades on historic buildings, and beautiful park spaces that draw families and visitors to view the scenic Ausable River, Anderson Falls and our historic bridges—now’s your chance to turn those visions into reality. The NY Forward Public Engagement for the Revitalization of Downtown Keeseville is in full swing, and the Local Planning Committee (LPC) is eager to hear your ideas on which projects could have the most transformative impact.

What’s NY Forward All About?

For those new to the buzz, NY Forward is a game-changing state initiative launched in 2022 to breathe new life into smaller, historic downtowns like ours. Keeseville was selected as one of the North Country’s recipients, earning a whopping $4.5 million in funding to support planning, capacity-building, and actual implementation. Partnering with the NYS Department of State, Homes & Community Renewal, Empire State Development, and the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, this program is laser-focused on economic growth, attracting new residents and businesses, and boosting our quality of life—all while preserving the charm that makes Keeseville special.

The LPC is currently sifting through a slate of exciting project proposals aimed at revitalizing our downtown core. We’re talking potential upgrades to public spaces, improved connectivity, and enhancements that could make our village a true destination. But here’s the best part: You get to weigh in on what rises to the top for funding consideration.

Your Voice Matters—Don’t Miss Open House #2!

Mark your calendars for Wednesday, October 1, 2025, because we’re hosting Open House #2 from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM at the Keeseville Elks Lodge #2072 (1 Elks Street, Keeseville, NY 12944). This drop-in event is designed for easy participation—no agendas or long speeches, just interactive stations where you can:

• Dive into details on the proposed projects.
• Share your thoughts on what could truly transform downtown Keeseville—maybe safer pedestrian paths, vibrant public art, or eco-friendly upgrades?
• Connect with LPC members and fellow residents to brainstorm ideas.

Whether you’re a lifelong Ausable resident, a business owner, or someone who just loves our community’s potential, your input could steer us toward a brighter future. Events like this are where real change starts—last round’s feedback already helped refine these proposals!

Why Attend? Here’s the Impact

• Be a Downtown Champion: Help prioritize projects that address your priorities, from economic boosts to greener spaces.
• Low-Key Fun: Grab a coffee (or something stronger from the Elks!), chat with neighbors, and leave feeling empowered.
• Beyond the Event: Can’t make it? Scan the QR code on the event flyer or head to keesevillenyforward.com to learn more, submit comments online, or explore the full project lineup.

Keeseville’s downtown isn’t just a place—it’s the heartbeat of the Town of Ausable. By showing up, you’re investing in jobs, tourism, and that sense of pride we all share. Let’s make this revitalization a success story for our kids and grandkids.

See you on October 1st? Drop in anytime between 5:30 and 7:30 PM—your ideas are the spark we need!

For more info or to share thoughts ahead of time, visit keesevillenyforward.com or email the LPC via the site.

Let’s build a bolder Keeseville together!

-Tim