A mixed-use building renovation project has been successfully completed through the Owego Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) programme in New York, US.
The completion was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by the city's lieutenant governor Antonio Delgado.
The $683,700 project transformed a property at 229 North Avenue into a marketplace and residential space with upper-storey housing.
The renovation was funded partly by the city's $10m DRI award in 2018.
Empire State Development led the project, with $439,000 coming from the Department of State's DRI programme.
Owego mayor Mike Baratta said: “The award of DRI funds has ignited the revitalisation of the Village of Owego.
“Owego Donuts and Beer is a great example of leveraging public and private investment to create jobs and expand the local economy.”
The building underwent extensive interior and exterior renovations, including a redesigned first floor, new electrical and plumbing systems, and patio improvements.
The property now features the Donuts and Beer, a 6,000ft² multiuse space with a self-serve beer wall, craft rotations, street foods, and a small marketplace.
It also offers indoor and outdoor gathering areas.
The second floor of housing has been converted into two apartments, adding 2,500ft² of residential space to the downtown area.
Property owners Ike and Julie Lovelass are noted to have been instrumental in Owego's downtown revitalisation efforts, investing in local businesses and restoring historic properties.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul said: “We are breathing new life into our communities through the Downtown Revitalization Initiative.
“This development will create a new, vibrant space for community members to live, shop, and visit, ushering in a more prosperous future for downtown Owego.”
This project, part of Owego's Strategic Investment Plan, is expected to play a role in the downtown's transformation and fostering a thriving local economy.
Since its inception in 2016, the DRI has committed $700m to 69 downtowns across the state, aiming to create activity centres and catalysts for investment.
