Posted By: C. Harrison/August 21, 2016
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
from left: Senator James Sander, Governor Cuomo and Queens Borough President Melinda Katz
Downtown Jamaica was selected as the winner of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative in New York City, a comprehensive plan at transforming local neighborhoods into vibrant communities. it also aims to create new opportunities for long-term growth and prosperity. The selection process was a competitive one conducted by the state’s New York City Regional Economic Development Council.
Senator State Senator James Sander Jr. (D-Rochdale Village, Far Rockaway and his colleagues in government on Wednesday joined Governor Cuomo as he announced $10 million in funding for the revitalization of Downtown Jamaica.
“This is a great day for this community,” Senator James Sanders said. Jamaica is a jewel of Queens and now it will have a chance to truly shine. As we plan together, we must be mindful that stimulating economic development in the downtown area may cause gentrification, an unintended consequence for which we must be prepare.”
The funding will include up to $300,000 for experts to draft a strategic Investment Plan with local stakeholders. They are tasked to identify specific economic development, transportation and housing projects. The grant is part of a $100 million effort to improve the vitality of urban centers across the state.
