Staff Report / May 16, 2026
The village of Bath in Steuben County is set to receive millions in state funding as part of New York’s ongoing effort to revitalize downtown communities and support long-term economic development projects across the state.
Governor Kathy Hochul recently announced a new round of Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward awards aimed at helping communities improve infrastructure, expand housing opportunities, support local businesses, and create more walkable downtown districts. The funding is part of a broader statewide investment program designed to strengthen small and rural communities through targeted redevelopment projects.
The 11 Bath NY Forward projects, totaling $4.5 million, include:
- Upgrade Pulteney Park with New Amenities to Support Increased Community Use ($382,000): Increase capacity for public events at Pulteney Park by replacing existing elements, adding a covered stage with additional seating and improving accessibility.
- Enhance the Pedestrian Experience in Downtown Bath along Liberty Street and the Connecting Downtown Alleys ($1,000,000): Incorporate sidewalk safety, accessibility, and aesthetic improvements into the Liberty Street corridor to encourage increased foot traffic and boost economic activity downtown.
- Establish a Small Project Fund for Downtown Bath ($379,000): Create a fund to support the growth and establishment of small local businesses in downtown Bath.
- Construct New Carriage House-Style Apartments at 8–10 W Morris Street ($382,000): Replace a blighted structure with new housing units and improve accessibility by creating a parking lot and walkways between buildings.
- Create a Tap Room and Restaurant at 44–48 Liberty Street ($980,000): Boost downtown tourism by renovating a historic building to include a full restaurant, tap room and outdoor event space.
- Create New Retail and Incubator Space and Improve Upper Floor Apartments at 24–26 W Steuben Street ($88,000): Encourage downtown business growth by renovating the building’s upper housing and exterior and rehabilitating the lower level for commercial use.
- Create a Branding and Marketing Plan for the Village of Bath ($250,000): Develop a branding and marketing plan and install wayfinding signage in the Village of Bath.
- Transform the Chat-A-Whyle Restaurant into a Dynamic Social Hub ($147,000): Upgrade a local restaurant with energy-efficient lighting, façade improvements, ADA accessibility, new bathrooms, a new cocktail bar, and the creation of a management office and employee break room.
- Improve Accessibility and Aesthetics at the American Legion ($486,000): Enhance a community mainstay by improving accessibility to allow more visitors to utilize the site and participate in local programs.
- Establish the Bath YMCA and Waterman Arts Center at the Historic Dana Lyon School ($220,000): Promote healthy recreation opportunities by installing permanent fixtures in the bathroom and changing room of the YMCA, and permanent wall showcases and gallery lighting in the Waterman Arts Center.
- Modernize Upper Floor Apartments and Façade at 25–27 Liberty Street ($186,000): Revitalize a historic building by preserving the integrity and beauty of the exterior while incorporating modern upgrades throughout the building.
State officials said communities selected for funding must be certified under New York’s Pro-Housing Communities Program, which encourages municipalities to increase housing opportunities and pursue redevelopment initiatives. The revitalization grants can be used for projects including building renovations, streetscape improvements, public gathering spaces, mixed-use development, and business expansion efforts.
According to state leaders, the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs have invested more than $1.4 billion statewide since their creation. Officials say the programs are intended to help communities attract residents, visitors, and private investment while improving quality of life in downtown areas.
Local officials in Steuben County said the funding will help support future development plans and improve community infrastructure while positioning the village for additional economic growth opportunities in the coming years. Specific projects connected to the funding are expected to be identified as part of a local strategic planning process involving municipal leaders, business owners, and community stakeholders.
The Village of Bath Mayor Mike Sweet said, “I would like to take this opportunity to extend my gratitude to New York State for making it possible to bring real, positive change to the Village of Bath. I am especially grateful for the dedication shown by the committee members, who invested countless hours into making these projects a reality. Congratulations to all the recipients—your hard work has truly paid off. Together, we have the power to make Bath an even better place to live, visit, and raise a family.”
