Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine announced the application process for the 2026 round of the Suffolk County Downtown Revitalization Grant Program will launch on February 19. A pool of $600,000 is available for partial funding of capital projects located in, or adjacent to, downtown areas on municipally owned property. Applications for the Suffolk County Downtown Revitalization Grant Program are due by Friday, May 15.
“Suffolk County’s downtowns are the heart and soul of our region, and we are committed to help our local municipalities and community partners prosper and help attract new visitors to spur our local economy,” said Romaine. “The County Downtown Revitalization Program not only serves as one of our legacy grant programs, but it signifies our commitment to continuously invest in our communities.”
In partnership with local municipalities, organizations representing downtown areas, including business improvement districts, chambers of commerce, civic associations, historical societies, beautification societies, and local development corporations are eligible applicants. Award recipients will be selected by the Suffolk County Downtown Revitalization Citizens Advisory Panel following a competitive application process.
Towns or villages who partner with a community organization are required to pass resolutions supporting the project on which the two entities partner. Projects must be capital in nature and have a significant and sustainable impact that enhances economic activity.
Among the various projects that are eligible for grants are public parking facilities, curb and sidewalk construction, pedestrian walkways, street lighting, public restrooms, accessibility improvements, renovations to existing structures, and cultural facilities.
The criteria for eligible projects include that the project must be a capital improvement project, funding request must be at least $10,000, the organization must partner with a municipality and be located on municipally owned property in or adjacent to a downtown and the project life-span must be at least 15 years.
The Suffolk County Department of Economic Development and Planning will host an informational session for potential applicants on Wednesday, March 11. Information on the session as well as the program application and guidelines can be found on the Suffolk County Downtown Revitalization website.