Small Project Fund groundbreakings underway

TICONDEROGA | The North Country Rural Development Coalition (NRDC), in partnership with the Ticonderoga Revitalization Alliance (TRA), the Essex County Land Bank, and New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR), has announced that construction is officially underway at three downtown properties through the Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) Small Project Fund. The $600,000 competitive grant program supports transformative building improvements in Ticonderoga's historic business district—strengthening both local vitality and regional economic growth across Essex, Warren, and Washington counties. Current groundbreakings are at 110 Montcalm St., the future home of Olio Piro, at Punky Noodles at 113 Montcalm Street and Adirondack Trading Post at 102 Montcalm St. The property owners applied this spring through a rigorous, independent panel review process. Since then, NRDC and its coalition partners have guided each project through environmental reviews, procurement, state approvals, and contractor selection—an extensive process that ensures every project meets both state and federal standards before construction begins. Over the past two weeks, ground has officially been broken at all three sites. "These projects represent more than construction milestones—they embody the entrepreneurial spirit, partnership, and persistence that drive community revitalization across our region," said Nicole Justice Green, President & CEO of the North Country Rural Development Coalition and the Essex County Land Bank. "Each groundbreaking you see today represents months of behind-the-scenes work—grant administration, environmental compliance, design coordination, procurement, and approvals. It's the unseen foundation that makes these visible transformations possible." The Small Project Fund provides targeted investment for façade restorations, interior and energy-efficiency upgrades, structural stabilization, window and storefront improvements, and other high-impact renovations that help preserve Ticonderoga's architectural heritage while supporting local business growth. Dr. Kaitlyn Long, NRDC's Deputy Director, who has led the program's implementation with Green, emphasized the importance of collaboration and technical precision in making these projects possible. "Our goal has been to make the process smooth and transparent for each owner while maintaining strict compliance," said Long. "It's been a privilege to work alongside these incredible business owners—they've been patient, responsive, and deeply committed partners every step of the way." Nicole Justice Green added a personal note of gratitude, saying, "I want to extend my sincere thanks to the Town of Ticonderoga for its partnership and steadfast support, and to the property owners—Scarlette, Katie, and William—for their remarkable cooperation and faith in this process. Projects like these require extraordinary coordination and perseverance. These owners have been phenomenal partners, working with us through every detail and challenge to bring this shared vision to life." Green added that momentum continues to build downtown. "We're also looking forward to seeing Burleigh's Luncheonette, the Sunshine Laundry, and Blee's breaking ground soon. Together, these projects represent the next wave of revitalization that's reshaping Montcalm Street and reaffirming Ticonderoga as a vibrant hub for small business and community life." Through its leadership and coalition model, NRDC continues to unite local governments, nonprofits, and state agencies to deliver measurable results—revitalizing main streets, creating jobs, and advancing housing and commercial development across the region.

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Small Project Fund groundbreakings underway

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