The committee tasked with identifying projects for the Huntington Station Downtown Revitalization Initiative met in its inaugural session Monday to learn more about community needs as well as the limitations on what projects could pass state muster.
In January, the state approved Huntington for a $10 million grant to develop the Station’s downtown, defined approximately as the area along New York Avenue just south of the LIRR station to 11th Street. The map could change slightly, and the area for revitalization could, for example, extend to Huntington Commons, also known as the Big H center just north of the railroad station.
After the Local Planning Committee surveys residents and determines what it believes is most needed, its recommendations will go to the state, which will approve those that best meet state criteria.
A crowd of about 70 Huntington residents turned out for the 8:30 a.m. meeting at the Huntington Station branch of the Huntington Public Library, and, at the end of the meeting, asked numerous questions about the kinds of projects they thought the Station needed, rangng from taking care of the homeless to supporting a Black-owned restaurant or other business, to removing state DOT traffic safety islands that were installed a few years ago or finding improved space for the Tri-CYA center. Other questions
Eligible projects include public improvement projects, new development and/or rehabilitation of existing downtown buildings, loans or grants and branding or marketing.
Funds can’t be spent on such costs as buying land, training or staff salaries.
Members of the LPC include business owners, first responders, nonprofit leaders, activists, educators, government officials and faith leaders.
The committee will continue to meet about once a month over the next several months.
Questions can be submitted at this page: https://www.huntingtonstationdri.com/contact-us
Updated: Committee on Huntington Station Revitalization to Meet