Bedford Selected for DIG – Major Economic Revitalization Support Grant

Bedford, NY – The Town of Bedford is pleased to announce that it has been awarded a Downtown Improvement Grant “DIG” through the Westchester County Economic Development Program. 

The DIG pilot program was developed to provide economic development support to stimulate revitalization of downtown communities.  $1.25 MM has been awarded to be used in five selected communities:   Bedford, Dobbs Ferry, Mt. Kisco, Pelham and Port Chester.  Each of the selected communities will receive a comprehensive market analysis, a custom-designed strategic economic growth plan, and six-months of hands-on technical support and assistance, and up to $250,000 support for implementation efforts.  The Bedford DIG application was submitted in support of the economic revitalization plans imagined for Bedford Hills.

“Through the DIG award, Bedford will be well-positioned to advance its strategic vision for revitalization of Bedford Hills, which is already underway” said Supervisor Calves.  “Funding for our economic revitalization plans couldn’t come at a better time.  We are so grateful to County Executive George Latimer and his team for creating this pilot and seeing how our vision for a vibrant Bedford Hills has great potential,” added Supervisor Calves.

Revitalization in Bedford Hills began several years ago with the renovations of the Bedford Hills Train Station and the Bedford Hills Community House, the sewer project, road paving, new sidewalks, new trees, banners and planters.  Our efforts expanded with the Bedford Promoter, who is launching a Bedford Hills-focused marketing program called, Sizzlin’ Thursdays this July.  Finally, our Comprehensive Plan is being drafted and will clearly direct the town to engage the community and create a strategic plan for ways in which to utilize these investments to continue revitalizing the hamlet.  This grant provides just that.

“We have already invested in Bedford Hills and this grant is an opportunity to continue those efforts in a larger, and even more strategic manner.  All of Bedford will benefit from the vitality that this will drive and I am incredibly thankful to all our partners who support these endeavors,” said Councilperson Bobbi Bittker, a Bedford Hills resident, who was instrumental in submitting the grant application.

Westchester County invited communities to apply for this pilot program by submitting grant applications in the Spring of 2023.  Awarded communities will begin the planning and analysis in the coming weeks and the process is anticipated to continue to through the end of the year.  For more information about Westchester County Business FIRST Downtown Improvement Grant Program, visit: https://westchestercatalyst.com/business-first-programs/.

Next Steps:  We will accept the contract with the County to engage with the DIG consultant and release a timeline for community involvement later this summer