Yonkers Applies for $10 Million Downtown Revitalization Grant
The City of Yonkers is applying for funding through New York State’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) — a statewide program designed to help communities strengthen their local economies and reimagine their downtowns as dynamic, inclusive places to live, work, and visit.
If awarded, Yonkers could receive $10 million to invest in key projects across its designated downtown district. City officials are inviting residents, business owners, and community partners to share their ideas and help shape the city’s vision for a stronger, more connected Yonkers.
Take part in the conversation 👉 [Yonkers Downtown Revitalization Initiative Survey]
Open Call for Projects
Yonkers is currently accepting project proposals for inclusion in its 2025 DRI application. The City hopes to identify transformative, community-driven projects that will:
Support small businesses
Stimulate sustainable economic growth
Enhance streetscapes and public spaces
Create a more vibrant, walkable downtown
The $10 million grant will help bring these projects to life — fostering a downtown where residents and visitors alike can live, work, and play for generations to come.
Submit your project proposal 👉 [Fill Out the Form]
Community Q&A Session
Residents are encouraged to attend an upcoming Downtown Revitalization Q&A session to learn more about the initiative and share input:
📅 Monday, October 27
🕔 5:00 – 6:00 PM
📍 Yonkers Riverfront Library, 4th Floor (Yonkers Room)
💻 Join online via Microsoft Teams
Proposed Revitalization Projects
If funding is secured, the City has outlined several potential projects that would reshape access to the waterfront, expand recreational opportunities, and improve major corridors throughout the DRI area.
Waterfront Access Pedestrian Bridge
The City plans to restore and convert an unused utility bridge at the end of Point Street into a pedestrian walkway over the Metro-North tracks. The bridge would be fully ADA-accessible, connecting inland neighborhoods directly to the Hudson River waterfront — removing a decades-long barrier to public access.
Waterfront Esplanade Extension
Yonkers aims to extend the Hudson River Esplanade, building on more than 20 years of incremental development. The new section would continue north from Ashburton Avenue to the proposed Point Street bridge, creating over two miles of continuous public waterfront access for walking, biking, and recreation.
New Boat Marina
In partnership with Extell Development Company, the City proposes constructing a 27-slip marina to accommodate small and medium-sized boats. The marina would invite boaters to dock and explore the city’s growing waterfront dining and entertainment scene.
Hudson River Beach
A man-made public beach is also envisioned along the Hudson River. Developed in collaboration with Extell, the site would allow safe, direct access to the water for activities like kayaking and paddle-boating — a first for Yonkers residents.
City Pier Dock & Dine Facility
To further activate the waterfront, the City plans to introduce a dock-and-dine area on the north side of the historic Yonkers Pier. Boaters could anchor, dine, and shop at nearby businesses, encouraging more visitors to experience downtown Yonkers.
Ashburton Avenue Streetscape Improvements
Building on recently completed upgrades, the City intends to extend streetscape enhancements along Ashburton Avenue from Warburton Avenue to Alexander Street. Improvements would include new sidewalks, decorative lighting, and plantings to create a more attractive commercial corridor leading to the waterfront.
Warburton Avenue Streetscape Improvements
As a major transit and commercial route, Warburton Avenue would receive new sidewalks, trees, and historically inspired light poles stretching from Dock Street north to Point Street — improving both pedestrian safety and the visual appeal of the corridor.
Point Street Streetscape Connections
Finally, Point Street would become a key pedestrian link between Warburton Avenue and the proposed new bridge to the waterfront. Planned upgrades include new sidewalks, lighting, and greenery to create a welcoming approach to the riverfront.
Yonkers officials encourage all residents to stay engaged as the City develops its 2025 DRI application — and to share ideas that reflect the community’s vision for a more vibrant, connected, and inclusive downtown.
