City of Peekskill Awarded Over $3 Million in NYS Grants

Peekskill, N.Y. (January 29, 2020) – The City of Peekskill has been awarded more than $3 million in New York State grants, including $2,285,000 from the State’s Consolidated Funding Application (CFA) program. The grants will fund a variety of important projects including the reconstruction of Fleischmann Pier, designs for a waterfront trail and shoreline stabilization along the Hudson River and McGregory Brook, and round two of the City’s Microenterprise Program.

In 2011, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo created ten Regional Economic Development Councils (REDC) and the Consolidated Funding Application (CFA) to advance the administration’s efforts to improve New York’s business climate and expand economic growth. The CFA, which streamlines and expedites the grant application process, marks a fundamental shift in the way state resources are allocated, ensuring less bureaucracy and greater efficiency to fulfill local economic development needs.

The Mid-Hudson REDC received a total of $65.8 million for 105 projects in 2019, including three projects for the City of Peekskill:

Reconstruction of Fleischmann Pier

$2,000,000 was awarded for the phase one reconstruction of Fleischmann Pier with a $665,000 City match. Located on the Hudson River at Charles Point Park, the pier will provide docking for larger vessels and will also include a kayak dock, gangways, benches, lighting fixtures and viewing stations. This project will complement the City’s Local Waterfront Revitalization Program by enhancing water-based recreational amenities and supporting tourism by creating docking for large vessels.

The Local Planning Committee of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative may recommend that the State fund the phase two components of the reconstruction, which include floating docks and various park improvements, so that the entire project can be constructed at one time.

"I sincerely thank Governor Cuomo and the State for selecting Peekskill for almost $3 million in additional CFA funding and for recognizing the great potential Peekskill is successfully tapping into,” said City of Peekskill Mayor Andre Rainey. “With local stakeholders working together as well as a forward-thinking administration, committed staff and City Manager, the City of Peekskill is continuously thriving. The reconstruction of Fleischmann Pier will increase opportunities for tourism. As the Governor mentioned, we're unique to have such an asset like the Hudson River. Peekskill is growing, and importantly, we're committed to sustainable tourism.”

Southern Waterfront Trail Connection and Shoreline Stabilization Design

The City of Peekskill received $85,000 to prepare designs for the final segment of the City’s waterfront trail and shoreline stabilization along the Hudson River and McGregory Brook in Riverfront Green Park. The design will utilize bioengineering techniques to reduce erosion and address risks associated with climate change. The project will implement the City's Local Waterfront Revitalization Program and Southern Waterfront Trail Master Plan by enhancing Riverfront Green Park and developing the final link in the City's nearly three mile waterfront trail system.

Second Round of the Microenterprise Program

An additional $200,000 grant was awarded to administer the second round of the City’s Microenterprise Program. Further details on the program will be announced in the spring.

Mayor Rainey continued, “I am proud of Peekskill’s rich diversity and openness towards people of all faiths, nationalities and backgrounds. The Microenterprise program will assist in giving everyone an opportunity to succeed."

In addition to the CFA funds, the City of Peekskill also received a $750,000 grant through the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation toward the reconstruction of a $3 million sewer line on Lower South Street, which is expected to preserve capacity and allow for future development.

The City of Peekskill is located at 840 Main Street in Peekskill, N.Y., and can be reached at 914-737-3400 or by visiting www.cityofpeekskill.com.

About the City of Peekskill

The City of Peekskill is a thriving, historic community located on the banks of the Hudson River. Just under one hour north of New York City, Peekskill is culturally and economically vibrant with abundant natural resources due to its location on the river and at the gateway to the Hudson Highlands. The City’s pedestrian-friendly downtown is buzzing with an array of dining and entertainment establishments. Offering artist lofts, studios, galleries and museums, Peekskill is home to a growing arts community and has no shortage of arts activities. The waterfront, with over three miles of continuous parkland, is a regional destination with a variety of active and passive recreation, as well as breathtaking views of the Hudson River. For more information, visit www.cityofpeekskill.com.