VILLAGE OF MEXICO NY FORWARD

The Village of Mexico is the recipient of a $4.5 million grant award from New York State Governor Kathy Hochul and the Central NY Regional Economic Development Council (CNY REDC) through the fourth round of the NY Forward program. Building on the momentum of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI), the NY Forward program is intended to support more equitable downtown recovery for New York’s smaller communities with a focus on hamlets, villages and neighborhood-scale commercial centers. The NY Forward program provides smaller communities with planning and implementation support needed to attract more businesses, residents and visitors while also providing a higher quality of life for all residents.

Situated along the banks of the Little Salmon River in Oswego County, the Village of Mexico’s downtown is a walkable, historically rich and community-focused hub poised for economic growth. From the iconic brick façade of Beck’s Hotel to the restored Starr Clark Tin Shop and the seasonal vibrancy of the downtown park, the downtown district tells a story of resilience and promise.

Leveraging the NY Forward funding, the Village is strategically positioning itself as an attractive residential community for professionals and families drawn to the region by Micron’s major semiconductor investment.

The Village aims to transform itself into a vibrant, dynamic area that seamlessly blends its rich history with modern vibrancy, marrying the charm of its historic architecture with the energy of its bustling streets lined with thriving local businesses, where every corner invites you to explore, connect and experience the essence of community.

People gathered outdoors at a community event with tents and trees in the background.

This downtown will be more than just a destination; it will be the beating heart of the village, where walkable streets lead to unique shops, inviting cafes, and beautifully enhanced public spaces. By preserving its storied past while embracing innovative growth, downtown Mexico will become a magnet for both residents and visitors, a place where economic vitality and quality of life flourish hand in hand. This is a vision of a downtown that doesn’t just serve the community; it inspires it.

Draft Vision

The Local Planning Committee (LPC), informed by community input, will revisit and revise the draft vision and goals during the summer.


Draft Goals

Establishing a compelling and attractive destination location for visitors.

Promoting increased small business engagement and economic activity.

Fostering heritage tourism in a region with cultural riches and historical significance.

Enhancing and expanding connectivity and accessibility in the walkable downtown.

Supporting transformative downtown upgrades that support housing development initiatives.

Developing and enhancing cultural arts elements and experiences.

Stimulating employment opportunities and economic growth.

Establishing consistent branding standards and identity.

Integrating climate smart and sustainable green intiatives.

Diversifying and enriching the array of events and activities.

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