ITHACA, N.Y. (WENY) -- The City of Ithaca is asking the community for feedback on a Downtown Revitalization Initiative application. If the city's application is approved, 10-million dollars in funding would be used for projects in Downtown Ithaca to spur revitalization and boost community engagement.

The City is working with the consulting firm MRB Group to develop a new D.R.I. application that reflects on the needs and future vision for the downtown area. This application is going to be focusing on  West State Street, MLK Jr. Street, and Ithaca's West End to create a stronger connection between the Waterfront, the Ithaca Commons, and other downtown areas.

The Mayor of the City of Ithaca, Robert Cantelmo, said the funding would also be used to upgrade developments, invest in infrastructure, and create new housing.

"We're here to build the community that our residents are already asking for," Mayor Cantelmo said. "The city has done through some tough times, as have others in the Pandemic years, and while there are parts of the city that have bounced back quicker than others...there are also parts of the city that are suffering pretty significant impacts."

If you are an organization, business, or entity that is planning capital investments in Downtown Ithaca, the city is encouraging you to give your feedback and submit a D.R.I. project form by Monday, August 5th at 5:00 p.m. After the submitted projects have been reviewed, the community will have a chance to talk about the eligible projects.

The form, along with helpful background information, is available at the application website: https://tinyurl.com/IthacaDRI2024 .