Six projects advance for Keeseville NY Forward

KEESEVILLE | Last week, the Local Planning Committee (LPC) advanced six projects for the hamlet's NY Forward Strategic Investment Plan. In March, Keeseville was awarded a $4.5 million grant through NY Forward, a program launched in 2022 to help transform downtowns throughout the state into vibrant hubs. Afterwards, the LPC started collecting opinions from community members, business owners, and other stakeholders through online surveys and public workshops on what should or could be done to revitalize downtown. Then came the call for projects, in which 10 proposed projects were submitted. Last week, the LPC announced which ones would move forward. They include the following… (A01) Ausable River Pedestrian Loop & Streetscape — implementing cohesive and accessible streetscape improvements along Ausable, Clinton, Mill, Front, and Main Streets. (A02) Ausable River Park Overlook — creating a new scenic deck overlook at the site of the former Red Mill, offering a peaceful space to enjoy views of the river and connect with Keeseville's natural and historic character. (B01) The Old Stone Mill Adaptive Reuse — transforming the Old Stone Mill into a dynamic, multi-use facility that can accommodate community events with venue space and a commercial kitchen, with a flexible space for commercial, office, or studio space on the lower level. (B05) The Masonic Lodge Adaptive Reuse — converting the vacant structure into six loft-style apartments, while retaining its historic character. (C01) Establish a Small Project Fund — establishing a locally managed matching fund to undertake a range of smaller downtown projects, including facade enhancements, business assistance, public art, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing. (D01) Keeseville Branding and Wayfinding Initiative — developing a branding strategy designed to enhance the visibility and appeal of Keeseville as a destination and distinct place in the region. Two projects were turned down for NY Forward, including the one that would've restored and upgraded the historic Riverside Inn to create seven new apartments and a community pottery, art studio, and event space. The other project was to upgrade the 92 Kent St. building and convert it into a community ceramic studio. Although it was turned down for NY Forward, the LPC moved it to be considered a potential project for funding through the Small Project Fund. The other two were flagged as potential future projects, including the revitalization of Anderson Falls Park and upgrading the Anderson Falls Heritage Museum. During the meeting, Jeff Dengler, museum treasurer, asked what being flagged as a "pipeline project" would mean and if they would need to seek other funding for its estimated $350,000 project that would include replacing the deteriorated porch, constructing a new retaining wall adjacent to the existing garage, replacing the existing garage, and installing a new HVAC system. "Your project is considered a 'pipeline project,' which means that it will still get highlighted in the strategic investment plan as necessary for downtown, and alternative funding sources will be mentioned as opportunities for that project," clarified Jim McKenna, Co-Chair of the North Country Regional Economic Development Council, during the public workshop. The projects moving forward will be presented to the public during the next open house, which is slated for Oct. 1 at 5:30 p.m. at the Keeseville Elks Lodge. A potential vote on the slate of projects to recommend for NY Forward is scheduled for the next day at 10 a.m. Afterwards, Dan Madigan, a planner for MJ Engineering, Architecture, Landscape Architecture & Land Surveying, said the LPC will draft the final strategic investment plan and then submit it to the state. "By investing in its historic character and embracing sustainable development, Keeseville will create a vibrant, inclusive, and accessible community where people choose to live, work, and explore," said Town of Ausable Supervisor Tim Bresett during the public workshop. "Through adaptive reuse and thoughtful revitalization, Keeseville will be a place of beauty, pride, and opportunity for generations to come." For more information, visit keesevillenyfoward.com.

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Six projects advance for Keeseville NY Forward

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