Valley Stream, NY – Assemblywoman Michaelle C. Solages of the 22nd Assembly District announced today that the Village of Valley Stream has been awarded $10 million through New York State’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI), calling the investment a “transformational moment” for the community.

DRI funding, originally established in 2016, is a state initiative that seeks to update local municipalities downtown areas for the purpose of accelerating economic development.

“This $10 million investment in Valley Stream is exactly for what DRI was originally established,” said Assemblywoman Solages. “Valley Stream is the gateway to Long Island: a diverse community filled families and small businesses who will benefit from this initiative. Through this funding, we will build a more walkable, connected community while supporting local economic growth and ensuring our beloved village receives the updated infrastructure that it deserves.

“This funding will go a long way to keeping Valley Stream a neighborhood that residents can be proud of for generations to come,” the Assemblywoman added. “I thank Governor Hochul for this timely and well-considered investment.”

A notable element of the program is a “plan-then-act” approach, where local committees are tapped to identify projects for funding.

Villages apply with a comprehensive plan for how they seek to use state funding to revitalize their qualifying neighborhoods.

For Valley Stream, the funding will support a series of transformative projects outlined in the Village’s proposal, aimed at strengthening Valley Stream’s “International Downtown,” a vision centered on walkability and inclusive community development, as well as economic growth.

Assemblywoman Solages previously submitted a letter of strong support for the Village’s application, citing its alignment with state priorities including addressing the region’s housing shortage and sustainable infrastructure.