Chinatown was awarded $20 million for post-pandemic cultural and economic revitalization as part of New York State’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced today the eleven projects that this award from the New York City Regional Economic Development Council will be directed towards.
These projects intend to recognize the impact of the pandemic on the broader Asian diaspora in New York City and transform the Chinatown community back into a place to visit and celebrate ethnic diversity, according to the announcement.
“This announcement marks a historic moment for Chinatown’s community,” Hochul said. “These critical investments will transform the neighborhood and create a more vibrant and inviting destination for locals and visitors alike, while enriching the neighborhood by improving foot traffic, economic and cultural activity.”
Among these efforts include the creation and renovation of public spaces and community landmarks such as parks, street lanterns and murals. This also entails a landmark gateway arch and improvements in accessibility at Park Row from the Brooklyn Bridge to Kimlau Square.
“The Downtown Revitalization Initiative’s 11 awards for Manhattan’s Chinatown will benefit residents with expanded access to critical services and help the neighborhood build upon its rich culture and history to attract new visitors and support business growth,” Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said.
The award aims to introduce a grant program for small businesses and a new community health and wellness center. It also expands upon a kitchen, childcare and family wellness center and a cultural welcome center.
“Manhattan’s Chinatown is one of the hardest hit communities by the pandemic. Now, many businesses are re-opening or continuing their essential operations,” New York State Assemblymember Yuh-Line Niou said. “Our community is resilient and the development of these projects will become additional anchor points for our community as we continue to recover and weather additional COVID waves.”
These investments, led by the New York Department of State, are part of ongoing efforts by the governor to revitalize the downstate economy and create more opportunities in New York City.
“The specific projects to be funded through the DRI support several goals and strategies contained in the community’s Strategic Investment Plan, such as—improved streetscape connectivity and public gathering spaces; increased health, wellness and business opportunities; and enhanced cultural destinations and amenities,” the announcement said.
AsAmNews is published by the non-profit, Asian American Media Inc. Follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube. Please consider making a tax-deductible donation to support our efforts to produce diverse content about the AAPI communities. We are supported in part by funding provided by the State of California, administered by the California State Library in partnership with the California Department of Social Services and the California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander American Affairs as part of the Stop the Hate program. To report a hate incident or hate crime and get support, go to CA vs Hate.
