Open Call for Projects

Do you have a project that you would like to submit for DRI funding? Download and complete the form below.

Submissions are due:

Wednesday, July 26, 2023 at 5:00 pm.

Applications lacking information such as description of scope, anticipated location, or amount of DRI funding request amount may not receive further review after September 13th

Questions regarding project eligibility, evaluation, or the project forms can be directed to Adam Bonosky at abonosky@swbr.com.

To Submit the Form

via email:

Email your completed application and any supplemental materials to

abonosky@swbr.com

hard copy:

Mail, or hand-deliver to:

Village of Johnson City attn: Mayor Martin Meaney 243 Main Street Johnson City, NY 13790


Informational Meeting

An informational meeting was held virtually on Wednesday July 12, 2023 at 6:00 pm to address questions regarding the requirements of the Village of Johnson City DRI Project Form.

Download a PDF of the presentation here.

Watch a recording of the meeting below:


What Qualifies for Funding?

It is expected that DRI funds will be used for capital projects that will transform the physical environment of the downtown in ways that will benefit current residents and future generations. However, certain non-capital projects or projects that may lead to capital investment will also be considered to the extent that they will contribute to the revitalization of the downtown. The following is a description of eligible and ineligible project types.

Eligible Project Types

  • Public Improvement Projects. These may include projects such as streetscape and transportation improvements, recreational trails, wayfinding signage, new and upgraded parks, plazas, public art, green infrastructure, and other public realm projects that will contribute to the revitalization of the downtown.

  • New Development and/or Rehabilitation of Existing Downtown Buildings. Projects in this category may include the development or redevelopment of real property for mixed-use, commercial, residential, not-for-profit, or public uses. All projects should be capital investments or should lead to capital investments. They should have a visible and functional impact on the downtown, serving as catalytic or transformative projects that will provide employment opportunities, housing choices, and/or services for the community.

  • Small Project Fund. A locally managed matching small project fund may be proposed to undertake a range of smaller downtown projects such as facade enhancements, building renovation improvements to commercial or mixed-use spaces, business assistance, or public art. Funds are capped at $600,000 for DRI communities.

  • Branding and Marketing. Examples include downtown branding and marketing projects that may target residents, investors, developers, tourists, and/or visitors. The costs eligible under this category must be one-time expenses, such as those to develop materials and signage. Ongoing operational costs, such as funding a downtown manager or maintaining a website, are not eligible for DRI funding.

Ineligible Project Types

  • Planning activities. Following the preparation of the Strategic Investment Plan, all DRI funds must be used for projects that directly implement the plan.

  • Operations and maintenance. DRI funds cannot be used for on-going or routine expenses, such as staff salaries and wages, rent, utilities, and property up keep.

  • Pre-award costs. Reimbursement for costs incurred before the completion of the Strategic Investment Plan and the announcement of funding awards is not permitted.

  • Property acquisition. The cost of property acquisition can be included in the overall project budget, but the acquisition must be funded by another funding source.

  • Training and other program expenses. The DRI program is a one-time infusion of funds and cannot be used to cover continuous costs, such as training costs and expensed related to existing programs.

  • Expenses related to existing programs. DRI funds cannot be used to supplement existing programs or replace existing resources.