Restore NY was established in the 2006-2007 New York State Budget to provide eligible municipalites with financial assistance to encourage economic development and neighborhood revitalization. A total of $300 million was dedicated to this program in the New York State Budget with $50 million appropriated for State Fiscal Year (SFY) 2006-2007, $100 million appropriated for SFY 2007-2008 and $150 million appropriated for SFY 2008-2009. The program goals of Restore NY were to revitalize urban centers, encourage commercial investment and improve housing stock. Eligible municipalities submitted proposals for funding for the demolition, deconstruction, rehabilitation or reconstruction of vacant or obsolete buildings. Grants were awarded to projects throughout the state in order to reduce neighborhood blight and bring buildings back to productive use and contributing to local tax rolls. Funding for the program has now ended. This hearing will examine the effectiveness of Restore NY in achieving its legislative goals.

Oral testimony will be accepted by invitation only. Ten copies of any prepared testimony should be submitted at the hearing registration desk. The Committees would appreciate advance receipt of prepared statements.

In order to meet the needs of those who may have a disability, the Assembly, in accordance with its policy of non-discrimination on the basis of disability, as well as the 1990 Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), has made its facilities and services available to all individuals with disabilities. For individuals with disabilities, accommodations will be provided, upon reasonable request, to afford such individuals access and admission to Assembly facilities and activities.

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Persons wishing to present testimony at the public hearing to review the implementation of the Restore NY program are requested to complete this reply form as soon as possible and mail it to: