Hempstead Announces First Downtown Revitalization Community Benefit Idea

Hempstead, N.Y. (December 17, 2015) – Mayor Wayne J. Hall Sr. today announced his proposal for the “Lots of Hope” program for the revitalization and beautification of downtown Hempstead. The Mayor displayed a proposed idea for the gazebo and performance space and will present the idea formally to the Village Board at the January, 2016, meeting, during which time he will also solicit ideas from the trustees and Village residents on additional project ideas for the first $1 million to revitalize and beautify the downtown.

“Today we proudly kick off the “Lots of Hope” program. My goal is to make the downtown a place where people come to learn and to love our historic Village of Hempstead,” said Village of Hempstead Mayor Wayne J. Hall Sr. “I am seeking input from the Village Trustees and residents about ways to make the downtown more inviting, and today I am kicking off the first proposal with a gazebo and performance space at Denton Green Park in the heart of the downtown. RDUA has pledged to host an annual summer concert series and a December Holiday Festival starting in 2016 and my goal is to see many performances, community events, weddings and other celebrations at this downtown focal point.”

Earlier this week, the Mayor announced the transfer of 14 Parking Lots to RDUA, a joint venture of UrbanAmerica-Renaissance Downtowns and RXR Realty, led by Scott Rechler, Don Monti and Urban America. On Tuesday, December 15th, 2015, RDUA presented the first $1 million of an $8 million commitment to the Village of Hempstead for community development initiatives. Funding for the proposed gazebo and performance space would come from the initial $1 million, with additional resources earmarked for future projects.

“This space, at the heart of the community, will allow residents to fully participate in all the wonderful opportunities Hempstead has to offer,” added Mayor Hall. “This gazebo will serve as a central point for residents to congregate for community and social events, strengthening the bonds of friendship and family in our thriving community.”

For more information about the Village of Hempstead’s downtown revitalization and “Lots of Hope” program, please contact the Incorporated Village of Hempstead at www.villageofhempstead.org.